Reinvigorating the quest for schistosomiasis elimination: addressing challenges, leveraging opportunities, and exploring innovative frontiers

Schistosomiasis, a prevalent parasitic disease in low and middle-income countries, is primarily treated with praziquantel via mass drug administration (MDA). This review assesses current efforts to control schistosomiasis and progress toward the World Health Organization's 2030 elimination goal. It finds that inconsistent global efforts and new challenges, like drug resistance, the COVID-19 pandemic, and climate change, are hindering progress. Key control strategies, such as mass drug administration, sanitation improvements, and community involvement, are evaluated. Furthermore, the review examines schistosomiasis control programs in China and Brazil to provide insights into effective governance, resource management, and existing obstacles. To reach the 2030 goal, stronger surveillance systems, better diagnostic tools, and investment in novel interventions are needed to create a world free of schistosomiasis. This review highlights the need for a more integrated and comprehensive approach to achieve schistosomiasis elimination.