Infection Rates of Fasciola Intermediate Host Snail Species and Their Distribution in Africa: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to collate the infection rates of Fasciola spp. in intermediate host snails and their distribution in Africa. The overall infectivity prevalences of Galba truncatula, Radix natalensis, and Pseudosuccinea columella are 52%, 8%, and 3%, respectively. The intermediate host snails native to Africa (R. natalensis and G. truncatula) have been examined more than the invasive P. columella. The studies included in the review ranged from 1999 to 2022. North Africa has the highest prevalence of G. truncatula, with an infection rate of 52%. The review reveals that naturally infected intermediate host snails (G. truncatula, R. natalensis, and P. columella) are found in various regions of Africa. G. truncatula accounts for 22% (from three countries) of the studies included in the review and it was only found in the North African region with the highest overall infection rate of 52%. More studies on infection rate and distribution are needed to effectively control and prevent future transmissions.