The Ministry of Public Health and Population launched on Sunday the second phase of its national campaign against schistosomiasis. The campaign will run over four days across 103 districts in the provinces of Hadhramawt, Shabwa, Abyan, al-Dale, Hodeidah, Marib and al-Baydha.
Although it has a low mortality rate, schistosomiasis often is a chronic illness that can damage internal organs and, in children, impair growth and cognitive development. schistosomiasis is is an infectious disease caused or transmitted by a parasite.
The disease affects many people in developing countries, particularly children who may acquire the disease by swimming or playing in infected water. When children come into contact with a contaminated water source, the parasitic larvae easily enter through their skin and further mature within organ tissues.
The control of schistosomiasis is based on large-scale treatment of at-risk population groups, access to safe water, improved sanitation, hygiene education and snail control.
A team of doctor and nurses will now crisscross the country, offering treatments in schools and clinics to children age 6 to 18 years old.
Minister of Public Health and Population, Dr. Ahmad Qasem al-Ansi told Saba (state news agency )his administration is determined to eradicate the disease. He called on all parents to participate, stressing that public support is paramount if the campaign is to be successful.