Abstract
Background: Bulinus truncatus is the intermediate host of Schistosoma haematobium, which is a causative agent of urinary schistosomiasis,
a parasitic disease that has been given high priority by the world health organization. Although schistosomiasis was
eradicated from Iran decades ago, Bulinus truncatus has been reported in some regions of Khuzestan. In addition, in recent years,
cases of urinary schistosomiasis have been described in Iran’s neighboring country Iraq. It is therefore possible that the disease may
reemerge in the Khuzestan region in the future.
Objectives: This study aimed to determine whether Bulinus truncatus is present in parts of Khuzestan province, Iran.
Materials and Methods: Using a hand net, samples were taken from irrigation canals in 27 locations in Khuzestan province during
October 2015. The collected materials were placed in a plastic container. The samples were then washed on a mesh screen. The snails
were separated and dried at room temperature. Identification was carried out according to the morphological characteristics of
the shell. A descriptive data analysis was subsequently conducted.
Results: Bulinus truncatus was detected in seven locations. In addition, Melanoides tuberculata, which is also considered medically
important, and Physa acuta were detected. The prevalence of Bulinus truncatus, Melanoides tuberculata, and Physa acuta was 6%, 5.5%,
and 88.5%, respectively.
Conclusions: Preventive measures to eliminate Bulinus truncatus should be applied in the Khuzestan region of Iran.