Susceptibility of Planorbarius metidjensis from Portugal and Spain to Schistosoma bovis from Salamanca, Spain.

Abstract

The susceptibility of Planorbarius metidjensis from Portugal and Salamanca (Spain) to Schistosoma bovis from Salamanca was studied. The degree of susceptibility as measured by positivity rate, number of cercariae, pre-patent period and survival rate, showed that P. metidjensis from Portugal and Spain are very susceptible to S. bovis from Salamanca. The role of P. metidjensis as a host of S. haematobium is questioned and further studies are shown to be necessary. To determine if the disease exists in Portugal, the bovine and snail populations on the border with Salmanaca and Algarve are beginning to be screened.