Epidemic schistosomiasis in the delta of the Senegal River Basin, Senegal: responses of the health care system.

Since 1988, the delta of the Senegal River Basin has experienced an exceptional epidemic of intestinal schistosomiasis, following the development of large irrigation projects. Urinary schistosomiasis was also rapidly spreading. The response of the health care system to the epidemics is described. Control was integrated in the existing health care system, according to the general health policy of Senegal. Control was based on passive detection, treatment, health education and information. The availability of praziquantel was assured. Priority was given to the development of health services in general. Initial reports have also attracted different research groups to the area. The variety of epidemiological situations made this area unique for research. Researchers would like to observe untreated communities to study the development of immune mechanisms. Inevitably such approach must lead to confrontation with local health services which should offer ethically and medically correct management of infected individuals and affected communities.