First Recovery of Schistosoma mansoni Eggs From a Latrine in Europe (15–16th Centuries)

Abstract

Schistosoma mansoni eggs were found in a latrine dated AD 1450-1550 in Montbéliard, France. This is the first record of intestinal schistosomiasis in archaeological material. Because the parasite has an African origin, its presence in Europe at that time may be due to African slaves. However, intestinal schistosomiasis has never been established in Europe.