5 January 2024 – Schistosomiasis is a neglected tropical disease caused by blood flukes (trematode worms) that can remain in the body for many years and cause damage to organs such as the bladder, the kidneys and the liver. The parasite lives in fresh water in tropical and subtropical regions. The disease mostly affects communities without access to safe drinking water and adequate sanitation. It is found throughout Africa, and also in parts of South America, the Caribbean, the Middle East and Asia. The European Medicines Agency’s (EMA) Human Medicines Committee (CHMP) has adopted a positive scientific opinion for Arpraziquantel used to treat schistosomiasis in young children aged 3 months to 6 years.

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