The researchers proposed exhibit is about schistosomiasis, a water-borne parasitic disease that affects 240 million people per year, with most cases affecting people in Africa. The disease is spread through infested water and the parasite requires contact with both humans and snails in order to complete its life cycle, so interrupting this cycle at key points can help prevent spread of the disease.

Praziquantel is a drug used to treat this disease, but doesn't prevent re infection. The researchers have investigated the interruption to the parasitic life cycle when water, sanitation and hygiene is improved. Therefore, they have looked into sustainable water infrastructure in the affected communities. Their proposed exhibition will allow the public to design their own interventions, after learning about current methods to remove Schistosoma from water.

This project is led by Raheema Chunara from the School of Biodiversity, One Health & Veterinary Medicine.

First published: 30 January 2023

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