Appropriate treatment for most protozoal infections exists, and information on dosage, source of drugs, etc., is available. Laboratory-associated infections with Schistosoma spp. None have been directly associated with laboratory animals, with the exception of infected mollusk intermediate hosts. Skin penetration by schistosome cercariae and ingestion of fluke metacercaria are the primary laboratory hazards. Additionally, metacercaria may be inadvertently transferred from hand to mouth by fingers or gloves, following contact with contaminated aquatic vegetation or surfaces of aquaria.
Most laboratory exposures to Schistosoma spp.
Safe and effective drugs are available for the treatment of schistosomiasis. Biosafety Level 2 practices and facilities are recommended for activities with infective stages of the parasites listed. Gloves should be worn when there may be direct contact with water containing cercariae, or vegetation containing metacercaria from naturally or experimentally infected snail intermediate hosts. Long-sleeved laboratory coats or other protective garb should be worn when working around aquaria or other water sources that may contain schistosome cercariae. Appropriate treatment for most trematode infections exists, and information on source of drugs, dosage, etc. is available.