Schoolteachers and local health workers are effective in explaining the role played by people in the transmission of schistosomiasis. Campaigns in the Egyptian mass media have proved particularly successful in increasing awareness of the need for diagnosis and treatment. The supply of safe drinking water is fundamental to schistosomiasis control. The high prevalence of schistosomiasis is clearly a reliable criterion to select communities for installing a clean water supply. Until the 1970's, treatment of schistosomiasis was nearly as dangerous as the disease itself.
Modern treatment is effective and without risk.
Although reinfection may occur after treatment, the risk of serious disease developing in the body organs has been greatly reduced, and it has been observed that there is a marked regression of lesions in young children following treatment of the infection. In the majority of localities where treatment is provided, the total number of cases is reduced within 18 to 24 months. In other localities, according to the local situation, the prevalence has been substantially reduced, and it is encouraging to note that no further intervention is required for intervals between 2 and 5 years. To be effective, schistosomiasis control strategies should be adapted to the local epidemiological situation and caution must be taken when destroying freshwater snails using chemicals - particularly in terms of impact on the environment. Single dose praziquantel is effective in reducing prevalence and in containing the disease Schistosomiasis treatment must be accompanied by health education.