This study evaluated the schistosomiasis control program implemented in Taquaraçu de Minas, Minas Gerais, from 1985 to 1995. In 1995, we measured the prevalence and intensity of infection for a retrospective comparison with the data from 1985. The local health team was trained to manage all the program activities. The work involved stool tests (Kato-Katz), selective specific treatment, medical care for patients spontaneously visiting the local Health Center, definition of measures to be adopted, and popular education focusing on information about the endemic disease. The safe drinking water supply covered 97% of the households in the county seat. Prevalence of infection between 1985 and 1995 was reduced 7.0 fold, from 30.9% to 4.3%. Intensity of infection was also reduced significantly, from 91.2 ± 6.1 to 30.7 ± 2.5 by the end of the program. Municipalization of the schistosomiasis control program through the SUS, by using selective treatment, intradomiciliary supply of potable water, medical care for patients spontaneously visiting the local Health Center, and popular education presented lasting results, indicating this model's feasibility for other endemic areas with similar characteristics.
Schistosomiasis; Consumer Participation; Community Participation; Communicable Disease Control
