The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Nutrition wishes to inform parents and guardians of the children who participated in the schistosomiasis survey that laboratory testing of collected samples has been delayed due to challenges with local testing capacity.

In 2025, the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Nutrition in collaboration with the Ministry of Education conducted a Schistosomiasis Survey at primary schools targeting children aged 8 to 11 years. The purpose of undertaking the survey was to assess the presence of the neglected tropical disease called schistosomiasis also known as bilharzia.

 

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Nutrition wishes to inform parents and guardians of the children who participated in the schistosomiasis survey that laboratory testing of collected samples has been delayed due to challenges with local testing capacity. As a result, arrangements are now being made for the samples to be tested at accredited laboratories overseas. This step is necessary to ensure that all testing is carried out accurately, safely, and in accordance with required international quality standards.

 

The Ministry of Health reassures parents and guardians that this delay does not pose any immediate risk to participating children nor does this indicate the presence of abnormalities in the results. No further action is required from families at this time. All samples are being securely stored and handled according to approved protocols while preparations for overseas testing are finalized. We are actively coordinating the overseas testing process and will provide updated information to schools and parents once a revised timeline for results is confirmed.

 

The Ministry of Health sincerely thanks parents, guardians, school staff, and learners for their patience, understanding, and continued cooperation.