Abstract |
Human dermatitis caused by schistosome flukes has been periodically reported from Nevada waters. The dermatitis-causing schistosomes are parasites of some species of freshwater snails, and a survey of freshwater snails of western and northern Nevada was made. Both a bibliography and a taxonomic name list for freshwater snails of western and northern Nevada are appended to this report, along with a catalogue of snails collected and preserved, giving localities, number and dates. Living snails were kept in aquaria for several weeks at a time and carefully observed for evidences of schistosome parasites, but none were observed. Examinations of voles and muskrats likewise produced no schistosomes. Further research was indicated. Expanding use of waters for recreation may expose more people to schistosome dermatitis, and more information is needed in order to control outbreakes effectively. (WRSIC abstract) |