Schistosomiasis japonica Transmission Dynamics: Mathematical Modeling in Guiding One Health Approach Control Strategies

Schistosomiasis (SCH) japonica, a zoonotic disease caused by the parasite Schistosoma japonicum , remains a significant public health challenge, particularly in the Philippines, despite continuous control efforts. The World Health Organization's roadmap for neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) for 2021-2030 underscores the importance of adopting comprehensive, interdisciplinary approaches and moving beyond disease-specific interventions. Here, we develop a mathematical model to analyze the transmission dynamics of SCH japonica in the Philippines and offer guidance for control strategies using a One Health approach. The model was calibrated to 8 populations across endemic areas in two provinces in the Caraga region of the Philippines. The model integrated and assessed various One Health approaches to control targeting human-definitive hosts, animal reservoirs, and snail-intermediate hosts. Our findings suggest that, by 2030, comprehensive WaSH interventions at the barangay level in endemic areas are essential to significantly reduce human prevalence, from 20% to below 1% — in alignment with the WHO's 2030 target. Combining WaSH interventions and livestock‐grazing prohibition with chemotherapy amplifies prevalence reductions: preventing human and animal exposure to contaminated water yields greater declines than chemotherapy alone. By 2030, this integrated and sustainable approach is projected to reduce schistosomiasis prevalence to 0.094% in humans and 0.10% in animals. To support these efforts, strategies such as behavioral modification, health education, animal removal, the use of tractors, and active involvement from Local Government Units should be prioritized when implementing WaSH and pasture prohibition measures. Ultimately, adopting a comprehensive One Health strategy remains the cornerstone for achieving long-term success in disease elimination.