Control of livestock infection source for anti-schistosomiasis

Livestock plays an important role in epidemic process of schistosomiasis as one of the main infection sources. The strategies for the prevention and treatment of schistosomiasis in China have experienced two main stages, including snail control to interrupt infection routes and synchronized chemotherapy on human and livestock to control schistosomiasis. The significant effect has been achieved in control of epidemic situation of schistosomiasis after carrying out these strategies. However, in some severe epidemic areas, especially marshland areas, the re-infection of Schistosomajaponicum is still serious. Recently many researchers have done in-depth analysis on re-infection, and made systematic studies on livestock infection sources, that laid the foun-dation for the implementation of the comprehensive control strategies mainly focusing on control of infection sources at present stage. This review mainly summarized the role and status of infection sources of livestock in transmission of schistosomiasis in China, providing scientific basis for understanding and implementing the new strategies for prevention and treatment of schistosomiasis. Key words: Schistosomiasis;  Livestock ;  Infection source;  Control