[Protective effect of Fangyouling on Schistosoma japonicum infection].

Objective: To evaluate the protective effect of Fangyouling (extracted from herb) on Schistosomajaponicum infection in the field.

Methods: The residents in 2 villages, Zhaonao Village and Miaochang Village, were divided into Group A (139 persons) and Group B (162 persons), and the residents in Group A embrocated Fangyouling before their contacting the infested water and the residents in Group B did not. All the residents were investigated with questionnaires, and received the blood and stool examinations for schistosomiasis.

Results: The positive rates of blood tests were 3.13% and 9.34% in Group A and Group B respectively, the positive rates of stool examinations were 1.92% and 6.44% in Group A and Group B respectively (both P values < 0.05).

Conclusion: Fangyouling has a good protective effect on S. japonicum infection.