University of Agriculture - Makurdi

To investigate the presence and epidemiology of Schistosoma hybrids in Nigeria. The acquisition of new genes through hybridization may generate new phenotypes that might differ in virulence, drug resistance, pathology, and host use, ultimately leading to the emergence of new diseases. Hybrids can develop into a new emerging pathogen, necessitating new control strategies in zones where both parental species overlap, an intense and rapid control response is required to minimize further spread of the hybrid and possible escalation of human schistosomiasis.