Abstract

The effect of schistosomiasis on human health is high especially in resource poor countries like Ethiopia. Intestinal schistosomiasis is the major causes of morbidity in most parts of the country. School age children are the vulnerable segments of the population. Lack of sanitation, potable water, environmental modification, health education, mass treatment, awareness and manageable water harvesting programs like irrigation are the contributing factors for schistosomiasis. Proper health impact assessment for new irrigation schemes and other water resources projects will provide a solid basis for the incorporation of health safeguards at design and construction plans in Ethiopia.

Key words: Schistosomiasis, irrigation schemes, sanitation, migration.