MALAYBALAY CITY (May 22, 2024) – The City Health Office (CHO) conducted focal prophylaxis for schistosomiasis in Barangay St. Peter, a non-schisto-endemic area

This demonstrates a commitment to preventive healthcare and addressing potential health risks before they become significant problems.

By conducting such interventions, they’re not only protecting the health of individuals in Barangay St. Peter but also working towards preventing the spread of schistosomiasis to other areas.

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 percent were positive for schistosomiasis and soil- transmitted helminthiasis in the place.

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.

By treating everyone within the eligible age range, the intervention aims to prevent new infections and reduce the overall burden of the disease in the community. (CHO-NADA/melbmadera)