Schistosoma haematobium and its life cycle in Iraq

Abstract

1. The prevalence of human schistosomiasis in Iraq is reviewed and discussed. It is shown to be of wide occurrence and high incidence. 2. The life history of Schistosoma haematobium in Iraq is described for the first time. 3. Bulinus truncatus Aud. serves as the molluscan intermediate host. This snail can apparently only survive in ditches and stagnant pools, and is absent from swifter streams. 4. Baghdad, in addition to other areas, is shown to be a centre of heavy infection. 5. One of the most significant points regarding the cycle of S. haematobium in Iraq, is the occurence of a definite season of high infection possibility (June to October); and a definite season of low infection possibility (December to May). 6. Laboratory experiments prove that the wild cercariae from B. truncatus will develop in white mice. Cercariae derived from snails, experimentally infected by S. haematobium ova from human urine, will also develop in white mice. Guineapigs proved resistant to infection. 7. Numerous other species of snails, including 11,300 Lymnaea tenera euphratica Mous., from infected areas, were examined for cercariae of S. haematobium. All proved negative for this species although infected with other cercariae.