Algeria Leads the Way in Schistosomiasis Elimination in Africa

El Djazaïr, Algeria – Algeria is charting a course towards a significant public health achievement in the African region, as it nears the elimination of schistosomiasis. This journey towards the interruption of schistosomiasis transmission has positioned the nation as a frontrunner in combating this challenging disease.

A Milestone in Disease Elimination

Building on its experience in malaria eradication, Algeria initiated a Schistosomiasis control program in 1985, and since then concerted, efforts have led to the elimination of historical outbreaks, and no further cases have been recorded since 2018.  The Expanded Special Project for Elimination of NTDs (ESPEN) in collaboration with the German Development Cooperation (GIZ), supporting countries in the Africa region to develop NTD Master plans, can confirm that that Algeria has successfully reported zero indigenous cases of schistosomiasis for the past three years. This remarkable achievement is a testament to the country's relentless efforts in battling the disease. In recognition of these efforts, ESPEN, in association with GIZ, has extended technical and expertise support to Algeria in preparing a comprehensive plan for verification of interruption of transmission of the disease.  

ESPEN’s Crucial Support in Verification

ESPEN's assistance has been instrumental in finalizing a detailed plan for verifying the interruption of schistosomiasis transmission. The tailored verification survey protocol is critical in assessing the cessation of transmission.

Future Steps: Comprehensive Strategy and Multisectoral Collaboration

Algeria is now focusing on several key actions to ensure the sustainable elimination of schistosomiasis. A national committee comprising experts from diverse fields is being established to concentrate on the elimination of urogenital schistosomiasis. The country is also actively mobilizing resources to secure adequate funding for these initiatives.

To rigorously verify the interruption of transmission, Algeria will conduct an extensive survey, crucial in assessing the current transmission status and validating the success of elimination efforts. The management of imported cases is another critical area, aiming to prevent the reintroduction of the disease.

Moreover, Algeria is strengthening its cross-border collaboration, updating existing agreements to include schistosomiasis management, and ensuring effective epidemic control.

In terms of diagnostics, Algeria is moving towards adopting more sensitive techniques for detecting schistosomiasis cases, an essential step in managing any emerging human cases.

Lastly, embracing the "One Health" approach, Algeria is promoting multisectoral collaboration. This holistic strategy acknowledges the interconnection between human, animal, and environmental health, facilitating coordinated surveillance and management efforts for a comprehensive approach to schistosomiasis elimination.