Abstract:

Objective  To analyze the infection rate of snails and sentinel mice in Nanjing area from 1993 through 2013, and examine the relationship between the two host infection for scientific prevention and control.  Methods In annual spring season of 1993 through 2013, we conducted surveys on the snail prevalence using systematic and environmental sampling methods, and simultaneously tested the schistosome infectivity within the water body by sentinel mouse contact. Results The rate of infected snails and areas with positive snails tended to decline in general, and no infected snails were reported since 2009. The infection rate for sentinel mouse was 100% before 1998, yet dropped to zero since 2008. The infection rate of snails was positively correlated with sentinel mouse infection(rs=0.726, P=0.000). Conclusion Comprehensively enhanced measures together with control of the infectious snails shall be effective measures in following prevention of schistosomiasis in Nanjing area.

Key words: Schistosomiasis, Snail, Sentinel mice, Correlation