What is the Bilharzia / Schistosoma (Urine) Test?

The Bilharzia (Schistosoma) urine test is used to detect infection with Schistosoma parasites, which cause the disease known as schistosomiasis or bilharzia. These parasites are transmitted through contact with contaminated freshwater in certain parts of the world.

When a person becomes infected, the parasites live in the blood vessels and produce eggs that can enter the urinary tract. The urine test detects these eggs or signs of infection.

Urinary schistosomiasis most commonly affects the bladder and urinary system, and early detection is important to prevent long-term complications.

Why do I need a Bilharzia / Schistosoma Urine Test?

This test is recommended when there is a possibility of exposure to Schistosoma parasites, particularly after travel to areas where the infection is common.

You may benefit from this test if you:

• Swam or bathed in freshwater lakes or rivers in endemic regions
• Travelled to parts of Africa, the Middle East, South America or Asia
• Have blood in the urine (haematuria)
• Experience painful urination
• Have persistent urinary symptoms after travel
• Have unexplained bladder irritation
• Have abnormal urine test results
• Experience fatigue or fever after freshwater exposure
• Have been advised to screen after travel
• Need testing before or after treatment for schistosomiasis

Testing helps identify infection early and allows timely treatment.

Benefits of the Bilharzia / Schistosoma Urine Test

• Detects urinary schistosomiasis
  Identifies infection affecting the urinary tract.
• Useful after freshwater exposure
  Important for travellers returning from endemic regions.
• Helps investigate blood in urine
  Schistosomiasis is a recognised cause of haematuria.
• Simple non-invasive test
  Requires only a urine sample.
• Supports early treatment
  Infection is usually treatable with medication.
• Prevents long-term complications
  Early detection reduces risk of bladder damage.
• Useful for travel health screening
  Recommended for travellers with freshwater exposure.
• Supports accurate diagnosis
  Helps differentiate parasitic infection from other urinary conditions.

Step-by-Step – How the Test is Performed

• Book your test appointment online
• A urine sample is collected in a sterile container
• The sample is sent to the laboratory for analysis
• The procedure is simple and non-invasive
• Results are reviewed once available

Home sample collection may be possible depending on service availability.

Your Bilharzia / Schistosoma Results Explained

Negative Result

What this means:

• No Schistosoma eggs or evidence of infection detected

What it suggests:
No detectable urinary schistosomiasis at the time of testing.

Positive Result

What this means:

• Evidence of Schistosoma infection detected in the urine sample

What it suggests:
Active or recent schistosomiasis infection requiring treatment.

Treatment is typically effective and may involve antiparasitic medication.