Schistosomiasis in Europe

Abstract

Purposeof Review: The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of the burden of schistosomiasis in the European continent. It discusses three subjects: the endemic forms of non-human schistosomiasis in Europe; the introduction of transmission of human schistosomiasis into Europe; and the occurrence of imported cases of human schistosomiasis. Recent Findings: Europe is not endemic for human schistosomiasis; nevertheless, it is affected by the disease in multiple ways, although the magnitude of the burden remains elusive because of gaps in surveillance and reporting. Summary: Schistosomiasis is a global neglected disease prevalent in tropical and subtropical areas. As of 2022, it is estimated that 251 million people require preventive chemotherapy for schistosomiasis, 90% of whom live in Africa. In Europe, human schistosomiasis is frequently detected in migrants from endemic countries who reach the continent. Additionally, outbreaks due to local transmission can sporadically occur following the introduction of schistosomes in one of the many freshwater bodies in southern Europe where competent snail hosts are found. Finally, human cercarial dermatitis is frequently occurring in Europe, because of the presence of avian schistosomiasis in several countries across the continent. A stronger epidemiological surveillance and reporting system, coupled with more surveys on humans and snails, can contribute to better assess and characterize the burden of schistosomiasis in Europe.