Persistence and underreporting of schistosomiasis mansoni in a municipality in Minas Gerais ’Zona da Mata

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Schistosomiasis mansoni is a neglected chronic disease caused
by Schistosoma mansoni, which is endemic in Brazil. It presents systemic involvement and its
clinical manifestations range from dermatitis to severe clinical syndromes, including
neurological and/or hepatic manifestations, such as liver cirrhosis. Although the incidence has
decreased in the last decade, it is estimated that underreporting occurs. This study aimed to verify
the existence of underreporting and the persistence of the endemic character of schistosomiasis
in a municipality in rural Minas Gerais (MG) in 2016. Method: This is a descriptive and crosssectional study based on secondary data related to positive results of parasitological and
serological tests for schistosomiasis in residents of the municipality from seven of its eight
clinical analysis laboratories. Results: In total, 29,266 tests were evaluated by all techniques, of
which 80 were positive and 50 confirmed, corresponding to an estimated 0.17% prevalence
(95%CI 0.13-0.23%). In 2016, 31 cases of schistosomiasis were also reported in SINAN-MG.
Conclusion: Schistosomiasis in Ponte Nova, MG, persists as epidemiological pattern of
endemicity and underreported surveillance operational situation. We highlight the importance
of strengthening monitoring and control actions for the disease, including of endemic areas for
the vector and early treatment of patients with positive PSE. Keywords: Schistosomiasis.
Epidemiology. Parasitosis. Surveillance.