Distribution Patterns of the Snail Intermediate Host of Schistosoma japonicum— China, 2015−2019

WHAT IS ALREADY KNOWN ABOUT THIS TOPIC? The endemic status of schistosomiasis appeared to continuously decrease in China from 2015 to 2019. The snail species Oncomelania hupensis is the only intermediate host involved in the transmission of Schistosoma japonicum, and this snail’s geographic distribution is strictly consistent with that of schistosomiasis. WHAT IS ADDED BY THIS REPORT? The snail’s habitats did not decrease significantly in China from 2015 to 2019, and some habitats have been newly detected or recurrent in some regions. Snail habitats among nine counties in Hunan and Jiangxi covered nearly half of the areas with snails. WHAT ARE THE IMPLICATIONS FOR PUBLIC HEALTH PRACTICE? Considering the situation of snail distribution, strategies and measures on snail control should focus on key areas. In addition, study of the origin and causes of the newly-detected snail habitats and recurrent areas with snails needs to be strengthened, and comprehensive measures should be taken to prevent the spread of snails.