Published in PLOS One on 2026-01-07, this study is presented as an attributed evidence briefing. The excerpts below are the original researchers’ words, reproduced under their Creative Commons Attribution licence. Health Signal has selected the abstract and, where needed, opening background paragraphs; the complete methods, results, limitations and references remain in the linked paper.
Original authors: Yvonne Ashong, Frank Twum Aboagye, Isaac Owusu-Frimpong, Samuel Nyarko, Jewelna Akorli, Linda Batsa Debrah, Samuel Armoo, Alex Yaw Debrah, Dziedzom K. de Souza, Mike Yaw Osei-Atweneboana
Source: PLOS One • DOI 10.1371/journal.pone.0339722
Read the complete primary study ↗ · Creative Commons Attribution licence
From the researchers
Abstract
Schistosomiasis, a debilitating parasitic disease caused by Schistosoma species, poses significant public health challenges in tropical regions, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. There is growing evidence of species hybridization which may affect transmission dynamics, host range, and treatment resistance and hamper effective control strategies. This study investigated the prevalence and genetic diversity of Schistosoma bovis and Schistosoma haematobium hybrids in endemic communities in Ghana.
A cross-sectional study was conducted with urine samples collected from 840 schoolchildren in Ga South and Birim North districts. Microscopy was used for initial screening, followed by molecular characterization and sequencing to confirm species identification and detection of hybrids. Prevalence rates were calculated, and genetic analyses were performed using phylogenetic methods based on the COX 1 gene of Schistosoma bovis and Schistosoma haematobium hybrids.
Of 840 samples analysed, 96 tested positive for S. haematobium, yielding a prevalence of 11.42% [CI95: 9.26–13.96]. The highest prevalence in Ga South was among 13–17-year-olds [23.27%; CI95: 16.52–31.77], while in Birim North, it was among 5–9-year-olds [4.82%; CI95: 1.96–11.75]. The highest prevalence of infection in both districts: 22.58% [95% CI: 17.53–28.60] in Ga South and 4.23% [95% CI: 2.26–7.83] in Birim North was reported in males. Molecular characterization revealed that 33.33% [32/96, CI95: 24.70–43.27] of the samples initially diagnosed as S. haematobium were identified to be S. bovis and 11.49% [11/96, CI95: 6.56–19.39] of cases were hybrids.
The findings of this study highlight the prevalence of S. bovis and S. haematobium hybrids in Ghana, emphasizing the importance of accurate diagnostics and targeted control measures. Continued surveillance and research are essential to address the emerging challenges posed by schistosomiasis in endemic regions.
1. Background
Schistosomiasis remains one of the most significant public health challenges in tropical and subtropical regions, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa [1,2]. Caused by trematode worms of the genus Schistosoma, this chronic disease has profound implications for human health and economic stability [3,4]. The World Health Organization estimates that schistosomiasis affects over 200 million people worldwide, leading to about 200,000 deaths annually and contributing significantly to the global burden of disease in terms of disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) [5,6]. The disease’s impact is especially pronounced in endemic areas, where it exacerbates poverty, hinders educational attainment, and impairs economic productivity [7].
In humans, the most common schistosome species include S. mansoni, S. haematobium, S. intercalatum, S. guineensis, S. japonicum, and S. mekongi [8]. In Ghana, S. haematobium and S. mansoni are the predominant species, with S. haematobium responsible for urogenital schistosomiasis, leading to significant morbidity and long-term health consequences [9,10]. The disease affects individuals and poses significant challenges to public health systems, particularly in areas with inadequate water and sanitation infrastructure.
Reading this evidence
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© 2026 Yvonne Ashong, Frank Twum Aboagye, Isaac Owusu-Frimpong, Samuel Nyarko, Jewelna Akorli, Linda Batsa Debrah, Samuel Armoo, Alex Yaw Debrah, Dziedzom K. de Souza, Mike Yaw Osei-Atweneboana. Excerpts reproduced under CC BY. Selection, formatting and contextual notes by Health Signal. The researchers are the authors of the source study, not members of Health Signal’s staff.
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