Biological and morphological changes in worms in mixed infection of Schistosoma mansoni and Schistosoma in hamsters

ABSTRACT

Hamsters infected with Schistosoma mansoni and S. Haematobium either simultaneously or after the maturation of an initial infection with either schistosome species were examined to estimate the biological and morphological changes under mixed infection conditions. The results indicated a high level of acquired resistance. The degree of immunity was evidenced by the significant reduction in the worm load as well as in the size of mature worms. Some disturbance was observed in the worm distribution. The results were important for epidemiological and immunological uses as well as in the development of a vaccine from one species that might be effective against both species