Schistosomiasis disease, also known as
bilharzia, snail fever, and Katayama fever, is a disease caused by parasitic
flatworms of the Schistosoma type. It is transmitted by contact with
contaminated fresh water (lakes and ponds, rivers, dams) inhabited by snails
carrying the parasite. Swimming, bathing, fishing and even domestic chores such
as laundry and herding livestock can put people at risk of contracting the
disease.
The disease is especially common
among children in developing countries as they are more likely to play in
contaminated water. Other high risk groups include farmers, fishermen, and
people using unclean water during daily living.