Strategy of schistosomiasis elimination and its effects in Jinhu County, Jiangsu Province / 中国血吸虫病防治杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To understand the strategy of schistosomiasis elimination and its effects in Jinhu County, Jiangsu Province. Methods The data of schistosomiasis control in Jinhu County at different stages from 1970 to 2017 were collected and analyzed. Results From 1970 to 2017, there were three stages of schistosomiasis control, including transmission control, transmission interruption, and monitoring and elimination stages in Jinhu County. The main measures included Oncomelania hupensis snail control, infectious source control, and health education. A total of area of 290 691.78 hm2 was detected in Jinhu County, and the area with snails was 3 420.98 hm2. There were 8 729.37 hm2 area with snails was controlled. Since 2014, no O. hupensis snails were found. A total of 525 377 person-times were examined for schistosomiasis, with 2 815 schistosomiasis patients identified, and 2 844 person-times were treated by chemotherapy. In addition, 977 cases received the expand chemotherapy. Since 1990, no local schistosome-infected persons were found. In 2017, the awareness rate of schistosomiasis control knowledge and the correct rate of health behavior were increased by 54.59% and 14.23% respectively compared with those in 1992. Conclusions The comprehensive schistosomiasis control measures implemented in Jinhu County at different periods have achieved remarkable outputs and accelerated the schistosomiasis elimination process. However, the precise control measures should be implemented in the future to consolidate the prevention and control achievements.