Table 3.
Key points from the group interviews.
| Question | Response |
|---|---|
| Q1: Status of schistosomiasis in public health in Zimbabwe? | Although neglected for a long time, schistosomiasis is a significant public health issue in Zimbabwe. In the latest national health strategy, it is listed as number 4 in importance after HIV, malaria and tuberculosis. However, there is no dedicated disease control system or institution for schistosomiasis in Zimbabwe, so control efforts are integrated into the general hospital management system, following a unified medical and preventive management model. |
| Q2: Risk factors for schistosomiasis transmission in Zimbabwe? | A basic understanding of schistosomiasis transmission exists as identified through the following risk factors. (1) The greatest risk factor is water contact. Those women in common occupational contact with water and also children are at high risk. (2) Lack of disease awareness without practice of protective measures. (3) Shortage of schistosomiasis testing methods and equipment, with diagnosis only based on clinical symptoms (e.g., blood in urine). (4) Schistosomiasis screening not included in primary healthcare. (5) Insufficient supply of praziquantel. (6) Limited funding for schistosomiasis control. (7) Outdoor defecation and urination habits contribute to transmission. (8) Religious beliefs prevent some individuals from seeking treatment. (9) Lack of snail detection, monitoring tools and molluscicides. No data on snail distribution. (10) Heavy rains during the rainy season promote snail reproduction, followed by the scarcity of water during the dry season, forcing people and animals to share water sources. (11) Safe water sources are scarce, with access to drinking water from wells or communal taps among less than half of all households. (12) Rapid reinfection. |
| Q3: What roles do water infrastructure projects play in schistosomiasis control? | Both Biomphalaria and Bulinus snails are aquatic and difficult to control. While water infrastructure projects can improve the environment, they also increase the risk of schistosomiasis transmission. The construction of dams and large-scale water infrastructure might expand the snail distribution. |
| Q4: What are the current schistosomiasis control measures in Zimbabwe? |
Due to budget constraints, Zimbabwe is currently mainly implementing MDA targeting school-aged children as the sole control approach. |
| Q5: What are your recommendations for schistosomiasis control? | The obtained recommendations for schistosomiasis control are as follows. (1) Increased attention and investment needed for schistosomiasis control. (2) National schistosomiasis control strategies and management guidelines would be of important assistance. (3) Given the lack of infrastructure, safe drinking water and sanitation facilities, including a WASH strategy, are critically needed. (4) Training and capacity building for personnel need strengthening. (5) Accurate and rapid disease detection technologies required to improve detection rates. (6) Snail control should be implemented in parallel with MDA. (7) Health education efforts should be enhanced, with more health education products and protective equipment provided. (8) More drug resources needed. |
HIV = human immunodeficiency virus; WASH = water, sanitation and hygiene; MDA = mass drug administration.