Effects of schistosome infections on immunodeficiency virus transmission and progression

W. Evan Secor, Ph.D.

Division of Parasitic Diseases

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention*

Atlanta, GA USA

            The reasons for studying coinfections are as follows. Infections in populations never as “clean” as laboratory conditions. Accurate interpretation of observations may require taking co-infecting agents into account. The value of epidemiologic associations is strengthened by demonstration of biologic mechanisms for xxample: co-incidence of malaria and Burkitt’s lymphoma (decreased EBV immunity w/malaria). There are implications for immunization and control programs.

            For schistosomiasis in Western Kenya, car washers occupationally exposed to schistosomiasis  &