Schistosomiasis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Medically reviewed by Harsha Moole, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor treats Schistosomiasis?
An infectious disease doctor, a doctor who treats illnesses caused by germs and parasites, usually treats this infection. A liver doctor or a kidney doctor may also help if those organs are harmed. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What is schistosomiasis?
Schistosomiasis is an infection with a type of blood fluke parasite called schistosomes. A parasite is a tiny creature that lives inside another living thing. The parasites are blood flukes, which are a kind of worm. Adult worms live in the blood vessels. Other names for it include bilharzia and snail fever. It is common in many tropical and subtropical areas around the world. These are the warm parts of the world. It is not usually seen in the United States, except in returning travelers or people from other countries who now live there.
Symptoms
Symptoms depend on the type of worm and the phase of the infection. Most symptoms come from the body's reaction to the worms' eggs.
- Fever, chills, swollen lymph nodes (small glands that help fight germs), and a swollen liver and spleen.
- Itching and a rash, called swimmer's itch, when the worm first enters the skin.
- Belly pain and diarrhea, which may be bloody, from infection of the intestines.
- Needing to urinate often, pain when urinating, and blood in the urine.
In children, it can cause anemia (too few red blood cells), slowed growth, and a reduced ability to learn. Treatment usually reverses these effects. Over time, it can cause long-term liver damage, long-term kidney failure, and bladder cancer.
Causes and who gets it
People get this infection through contact with contaminated fresh water. Freshwater snails release young forms of the parasite into the water, and these young parasites go through the skin. Inside the body, the parasite travels to the lungs and liver, where it grows into an adult worm. The adult worm then moves to the body part it prefers, depending on its type. An infected person can spread it when stool or urine that contains parasite eggs gets into fresh water.
It is most common in poor places without safe drinking water and good sanitation, which means safe waste removal. It mostly affects poor and rural communities, especially farming and fishing groups. School-aged children are at special risk because they may swim or fish in infested water. Women who wash clothes in infested water are also at risk. Travelers to remote areas can get it too.
How doctors diagnose it
Your doctor will examine you. You may need tests. Doctors look for parasite eggs in stool or urine samples. A blood test can look for antibodies. These are proteins that help the body fight germs. Tests may check how well the liver and kidneys are working.
Treatment
The recommended treatment for all forms of this infection is a medicine called praziquantel. The World Health Organization says it works well, is safe, and costs little. Doctors usually treat it with praziquantel. MedlinePlus also lists oxamniquine as another medicine. Doctors often add corticosteroids, which are steroid medicines. If the infection is severe or involves the brain, corticosteroids may be given first. Treatment before major damage or serious problems usually gives good results.
When to see a doctor
Contact your provider if you have symptoms of this infection. Tell your provider if you traveled to a tropical or subtropical area where the disease is common. Call 911 or go to the emergency room if you have trouble breathing, chest pain, fainting, a seizure, a sudden change in mental state, severe belly pain, or bleeding that will not stop.
How a direct primary care or concierge doctor fits in
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. Either can listen to your symptoms and travel history, arrange first tests such as stool and urine tests, and refer you to a specialist.
Common questions
Can schistosomiasis be treated?
Yes, this infection can be treated with medicine. Praziquantel is the recommended treatment for all forms of it. Treatment before major damage usually works well.
How do people get schistosomiasis?
People get it through contact with contaminated fresh water. Snails in the water release young parasites that burrow into the skin.
Is schistosomiasis common in the United States?
No, it is not usually seen in the United States. Cases mostly occur in returning travelers and in people from other countries who now live there.
How can I lower my chance of getting schistosomiasis?
You can lower your risk by not swimming or bathing in water that may be contaminated. Also avoid bodies of water if you do not know whether they are safe. Snails host the parasite, so getting rid of snails in water that people use may help prevent infection.
Can you get schistosomiasis again after treatment?
Yes, you can get infected again after treatment. Still, the risk of severe disease goes down when treatment is given and repeated in childhood.
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Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
