Revisitando a Literatura Sobre a Esquistosomose: – Aspectos Epidemiológicos e Formas Alternativas Naturais de Controle
Revisitando a Literatura Sobre a Esquistosomose: – Aspectos Epidemiológicos e Formas Alternativas Naturais de Controle
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DOI: 10.22533/at.ed.95423150816
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Palavras-chave: Esquistossomose, Biomphalaria, cercárias
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Keywords: Schistosomiasis, Biomphalaria, cercariae.
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Abstract: Schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease caused by Schistosoma, a parasite transmitted by snails of the genus Biomphalaria. It is considered one of the most prevalent neglected tropical diseases in the world, mainly affecting populations in rural and impoverished areas of tropical and subtropical regions. Transmission of schistosomiasis occurs when people come into contact with water contaminated by cercariae, the larval stage of the parasite released by snails. Cercariae penetrate the human skin during activities such as bathing, swimming, or working in infested waters. Once inside the body, the parasites develop into adult worms that lodge in the blood vessels of the urinary or digestive system, causing chronic damage to health. From an epidemiological perspective, schistosomiasis is influenced by socioeconomic factors, such as lack of basic sanitation, limited access to clean water, and poor housing conditions. The presence of Biomphalaria snails in contaminated freshwater bodies is also a determining factor in the spread of the disease. Furthermore, human activities involving frequent contact with water, such as agriculture and fishing, increase the risk of infection. Control of schistosomiasis involves integrated strategies aimed at interrupting the transmission cycle. Additionally, controlling the vector snail is essential to prevent re-infestation. In this context, the use of plants has been explored as a complementary control measure. Some plants have biological properties that can affect the survival and reproduction of Biomphalaria snails. Substances extracted from plants, such as plant extracts and essential oils, have shown larvicidal and molluscicidal activity, meaning they can kill larvae and adult snails. These products can be used in environmental treatments, such as applying plant extracts to infested water bodies, aiming to reduce the snail population. The use of plants in combating Biomphalaria snails is still being developed by various research groups, but more studies are needed to evaluate the effectiveness, safety, and economic viability of these strategies. However, this approach offers a promising and sustainable alternative to complement schistosomiasis control measures, especially in areas where access to medical treatments is limited.
- Adalberto Alves Pereira Filho
- Clícia Rosane Costa França Nino
- Alexandre Nava Fabri
- Halana Tereza Marques de Jesus Ambrósio
- Mariana Teixeira Aguiar
- Aline de Jesus Lustosa Nogueira
- Renato Juvino de Aragão Mendes
- Ivone Garros Rosa