Table 1 Recommended treatment strategy for schistosomiasis in preventive chemotherapy (WHO, 2006)

High-risk community

≥50% by parasitological methods (intestinal and urinary schistosomiasis)

Or

≤30% by questionnaire for visible haematuria (urinary schistosomiasis)

Treat all school-age children (enrolled and not enrolled) once a year

Also treat adults considered to be at risk (from special groups to entire communities living in endemic areas; see Annex 6 for details on special groups)

Moderate-risk community

≥10% but <50% by parasitological methods (intestinal and urinary schistosomiasis)

Or

<30% by questionnaire for visible haematuria (urinary schistosomiasis)

Treat all school-age children (enrolled and not enrolled) once every 2 years

Also treat adults considered to be at risk (special risk groups only; see Annex 6 for details on special groups)

Low-risk community

<10% by parasitological methods (intestinal and urinary schistosomiasis)

Treat all school-age children (enrolled and not enrolled) twice during their primary schooling age (e.g. once on entry and once on exit)

Praziquantel should be available in dispensaries and clinics for treatment of suspected cases