Ms Masceline Mutsaka (PhD Student)

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mascelinejeni@yahoo.com

Group member since February 2016

Supervisors

Prof. Nicholas Midzi, Prof. Takafira Mduluza

Project Title

Characterization of host -schistosome parasite interaction: Disease burden among paediatrics, mothers and compliance during a one year schistosomiasis control program in a highly endemic district in Zimbabwe

Objective

I am interested in studying and understanding the molecular relationships between schistosome parasites, and intermediate host snails in relation to the transmission patterns of the disease in an area over time.

Schistosomiasis is a neglected tropical disease caused by parasitic trematodes of the genus Schistosoma. Globally, schistosomiasis continues to be one of the most prevalent parasitic diseases.  Approximately, 207 million people are infected with schistosomes worldwide with more than 90% of the cases occurring in sub-Saharan Africa. Focal distribution of schistosomiasis is mainly attributed to temporal and spatial variations of intermediate host snails, water availability, temperature and patterns of human water contact. I aim to characterise intermediate host snails, schistosome populations in relation to their interaction with human and snail hosts, relating these to disease burden in paediatrics and women of the reproductive age. I am also assessing the Knowledge, practices, perceptions and compliance of women regarding schistosomiasis control programmes

Education

• MSc Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology  (2011-2013) National University of Science and Technology, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, Faculty of Applied Sciences.  
• BSc Honours Biological Sciences (2001-2005) Midlands State University, Gweru, Zimbabwe, Faculty of Science.