Schistosomiasis Outbreak in Corsica

Urinary schistosomiasis is caused by Schistosoma haematobium. It is endemic in intertropical Africa, Madagascar, and the Middle East. An outbreak of indigenous transmission of urinary schistosomiasis caused by Schistosoma haematobium was identified in Southern Corsica in April 2014, following the diagnosis of urinary schistosomiasis in a person who had not traveled to an endemic area. The only exposure identified in this individual was swimming in freshwater in the Cavu River in southern Corsica, near Porto Vecchio, in 2013. The investigation conducted following this diagnosis identified 12 cases of Schistosoma haematobium infection in France, within 4 families, linked to swimming in the Cavu River in 2011 and 2013. The presence of the intermediate host necessary for the transmission cycle of Schistosoma haematobium, the snail, has been historically documented in Corsica, and its presence was confirmed in the Cavu River in April 2014.In its opinion dated May 23, 2014, the HCSP recommended screening individuals exposed to the Cavu River’s bathing waters since 2011 to offer treatment for the infection, manage any complications arising from these infections, and prevent the re-establishment of schistosomes in the Cavu River. The HCSP further recommends avoiding any skin contact with freshwater in at-risk areas, particularly in the Cavu River.