May 22, 2024 – The City Health Office conducted focal prophylaxis for schistosomiasis in Barangay St. Peter, a non-schisto-endemic area. Individuals aged 5 to 65 years old were administered a single dose of Praziquantel (40mg/kg) on a full stomach.

This intervention followed Malacological and Parasitological surveys by the City Health Office, which identified the presence of schistosomiasis in Barangay St. Peter. During the malacological survey, the snail Oncomelania quadrasi, the intermediate host of Schistosoma japonicum, was found. In a subsequent parasitological survey, 100 stool samples were examined using the Katokatz method, revealing that less than 1% were positive for schistosomiasis and soil- transmitted helminthiasis.

In response, the Department of Health Center for Health and Development Northern Mindanao (DOH-CHDNM) provided Praziquantel, the preferred drug for treating schistosomiasis. Following health advisories, a mass treatment approach was adopted, providing prophylactic treatment to the entire eligible population, regardless of infection status.

Report: CHO-NADA