Schistosomiasis: number of people treated, 2011

Overview

The number of countries considered endemic for schistosomiasis increased from 77 in 2010 to 78 in 2011, reflecting the independence of South Sudan in 2011. Large-scale treatment for the disease is warranted in only 52 countries and territories. It is thought that transmission of schistosomiasis may be low in 7 countries, but this remains to be ascertained, and the interruption of schistosomiasis transmission needs to be verified in 19 countries. The disease is still a major public health problem, particularly in Africa. Estimates of the number of people requiring preventive chemotherapy for schistosomiasis were revised and reported in 2012. At least 237 216 451 people were estimated to require treatment for schistosomiasis in 2010. Adjusted for population growth, the estimated number of people requiring treatment in 2011 was 243 192 887.