Preliminary survey on infection rate of Biomphalaria pfeifferi with Schistosoma mansoni in Qeha, Shinta and Dimaza river sites around Gondar town, northwest Ethiopia

Abstract Background Schistosoma mansoni is a significant public health concern, as it is transmitted through infection with cercariae released from Biomphalaria species-infested water. Method In order to collect Biomphalaria pfeifferi snails from the rivers of Dmaza, Shinta, and Qeha in Gondar town, a one-time snail collection was conducted using a scoop and handpicked method. Result A total of 242 Biomphalaria pfeifferi snails were collected from Shinta (22.3%), Qeha (32.2%), and Dimaza (45.5%) rivers. Among these, 85 (35.1%) were found to be shedding S. mansoni cercariae. Conclusion The survey findings indicate a high infestation rate of snails with the S. mansoni parasite. The frequent shedding of cercariae highlights the urgent need for comprehensive intervention measures in the study area.