Schistosomiasis in France (Corsica)

The French Institute for Public Health and Surveillance has identified 12 cases of Schistosomiasis infection in people that bathed in the Cavu river in Southern Corsica (near Porto Vecchio) between 2011 and 2013. This is unusual as Schistosomiasis infection is usually associated with South America, Sub-Saharan Africa and South East Asia. 

Schistosomiasis (also known as bilharzia) is a chronic trematode (blood fluke) infection of the gastrointestinal or urogenital tract. Transmission occurs when human skin is exposed to fresh water containing infective forms of the parasite. Initial infection is usually asymptomatic but a self-limiting itchy papular rash can occur at the site of skin penetration.

Travellers should be advised to:

• Avoid skin contact with fresh water in endemic areas e.g.
  ponds, lakes and rivers - this includes all water sports (diving, rafting,
  windsurfing, sailing).
• Swim only in protected swimming pools or safe seawater.
• Avoid drinking infected water.
• Wear protective footwear when walking in soil, especially if it is damp or water logged.
• Attend for screening on return if exposure has occurred, even if asymptomatic.

Screening for Returned Travellers:

The French High Counsel of Public Health (HCSP) has recommended that anyone that has bathed in the Cavu river since 2011 should be screened for Schistosomiasis infection. Screening of asymptomatic travellers is often warranted, particularly as symptoms may manifest only years after exposure.

Travellers that have that bathed in the Cavu river since 2011 should be advised to contact their GP for Schistosomiasis screening 6-8 weeks after last possible exposure. If the traveller is unsure when exposure occurred then investigate 6-8 following their return.

For further information on Schistosomiasis please refer to the TRAVAX Schistosomiasis advice sheet.