Schistosomiasis

Schistosomiasis in returning travellers is associated with exposure to fresh water. Katayama fever occurs 2-6 weeks after exposure; it presents as an acute illness with fever, myalgia, cough, wheeze, rash and marked eosinophilia. Chronic schistosomiasis in endemic areas may lead to portal hypertension in Schistosoma mansoni infection, or to chronic bladder problems with S. haematobium. CNS involvement can occur, particularly with S. japonicum. Praziquantel is the drug of choice for the treatment of schistosomiasis.