Multidisciplinary challenges by ‘pure’ and hybrid Schistosoma species introduced into southwestern Europe

In Europe, imported schistosomiasis affects a diverse range of patients, including migrants, travellers, visiting friends and relatives, and expatriates who have lived in endemic areas. The variety of regions linked to these patients' origins or destinations increases the likelihood of infections from different Schistosoma species and hybrids. This work aims to address the multidisciplinary challenges posed by 'pure' and hybrid Schistosoma species in southwestern Europe. It explores (i) the role of molecular analysis in identifying species and hybrids, (ii) the importance of morphogenetic studies of Schistosoma eggs, (iii) the potential risk of hybrid Schistosoma infections emerging in Europe and (iv) the clinical management, diagnostis and treatment of schistosomiasis in non-endemic European countries. The study includes examples of 'pure' and hybrid species detected in a tropical medicine unit in Almería, Spain. In this context, the complexity of managing not only the clinical aspects, diagnosis and treatment of this disease, but also the need and readiness to quantify the risks and prevent future outbreaks of schistosomiasis in Europe are evident. Schistosoma hybrids potentially able to adapt to new European habitats are a challenge, which highlights the need for appropriate surveillance and preventive measures to avoid the introduction of schistosomiasis into Europe. This article is part of the Royal Society Science+ meeting issue 'Parasite evolution and impact in action: exploring the importance and control of hybrid schistosomes in Africa and beyond'.