Seasonality and dynamics of schistosomiasis in the environment: usefulness of environmental DNA (eDNA) surveillance system at a community level for risk mapping schistosomiasis in Ekiran Village, Leyte, Philippines

This study aimed to fill the gaps in monitoring and mitigating schistosomiasis transmission in the environment. This field-applicable environmental DNA (eDNA)-based qualitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) detection system focused on effectively detecting <i>Schistosoma japonicum</i> and its snail intermediate host, <i>Oncomelania hupensis quadrasi</i>, at the community level, moving from the traditional detection methods that are labor-intensive, less sensitive, and exposing surveyors to potential risk of infection. By introducing a field-applicable eDNA-based qPCR assay, this research provides a sensitive, non-invasive, and rapid molecular method for detecting <i>S. japonicum</i> and <i>O.h. quadrasi</i> in the environment. Additionally, the study not only provided insights in enhanced surveillance strategies but also contributed to a holistic eco-health approach by generating hazard maps for potential transmission and contamination sites, which could improve future control efforts and resource allocation for schistosomiasis elimination.