Climate change and schistosomiasis: the impact of rising temperatures on snails transmitting schistosoma species

Theodor Bilharz Research Institute

Bibliographic Information

Authors: Dokmak H.-A.A.

Journal: Molluscan Research

Publisher: Taylor and Francis Ltd.

Publication Date: 20 December 2025

Volume / Issue: Volume 46 / Issue 1

Pages: 1–12

ISSN: 13235818

DOI: 10.1080/13235818.2025.2598082

Scopus: View on Scopus

Document Type: Article


Authors and Affiliations

Dokmak H.-A.A., Medical Malacology Department, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Giza, Egypt


Abstract

Freshwater snails are significant vectors for schistosomiasis, a disease caused by parasitic worms, and they also hold veterinary importance as hosts for various diseases. Climate change significantly influences the transmission of schistosomiasis by affecting these snails. Changes in temperature impact their growth, reproduction, and survival, with each species exhibiting distinct optimal temperature ranges. This can result in shifts in snail populations and the distribution of the disease. Rising temperatures and altered precipitation patterns expand the geographic range of snails, increasing infection risk in regions such as eastern Africa, China, and Brazil. Temperature plays a critical role in parasite development and snail survival, with varying temperature tolerances among snail species affecting disease transmission dynamics. Rather than merely expanding transmission areas, climate change may shift them, potentially pushing African snail species out of their thermal comfort zones. To effectively manage climate-sensitive diseases like schistosomiasis, comprehensive public health strategies are essential. This includes developing adaptive plans, prioritising research, and fostering collaboration. Understanding the intricate relationship between climate change and disease transmission is crucial for designing targeted interventions. Enhanced surveillance and control measures are necessary to protect vulnerable populations and mitigate the impacts of climate change on schistosomiasis transmission. © 2025 Theodor Bilharz Research Institute. Published by The Malacological Society of Australasia and the Society for the Study of Molluscan Diversity.


Keywords

climate change impacts; schistosoma life cycle; schistosomiasis transmission


Citation Information

Scopus Citations: 1


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