Bilharzia -

Schistosomiasis (Bilharzia) - World Health Organization (WHO)

: The parasites develop inside freshwater snails before being released into the water. bilharzia

: When humans swim, wash, or fish in these waters, the tiny larvae (cercariae) penetrate the skin. It is considered a neglected tropical disease (NTD)

, also known as schistosomiasis or "snail fever," is a disease caused by parasitic flatworms called schistosomes. It is considered a neglected tropical disease (NTD) and is the second most socioeconomically devastating parasitic disease after malaria. How Transmission Occurs The female worms lay eggs; some leave the

Infection does not happen by drinking the water, but through with contaminated freshwater.

: Once inside, the worms mature and live in the blood vessels. The female worms lay eggs; some leave the body through urine or feces to continue the cycle, while others become trapped in body tissues, causing organ damage. Symptoms to Watch For