DAR ES SALAAM, July 27 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese schistosomiasis control project team and the 34th Chinese medical team in Zanzibar on Saturday launched a health education and free clinic campaign in Zanzibar.

The campaign was launched against the backdrop of an unusually long rainy season that triggered a spike in waterborne infections and trauma cases, said Dai Yang, leader of the schistosomiasis control project team.

He noted that heavy rains caused widespread flooding and road damage, creating optimal conditions for the mass reproduction of Biomphalaria snails, the primary carrier of schistosomiasis, as medical access was severely disrupted, leaving many residents untreated for fractures and infections.

Despite logistical hurdles, including a stranded clinic bus that required emergency vehicle transfers, the expert teams reached Wambaa safely and initiated public health outreach.

Recognizing the risk of children playing in stagnant water, the schistosomiasis control project team placed special emphasis on educating students. "Every seemingly calm puddle may harbor schistosomes, the invisible threat surging after rainfall," warned Dai.

The Chinese medical team offered free consultations and treatment across internal medicine, surgery, and pediatrics to hundreds of residents. Vital medications, including antibiotics, deworming treatments, and antivirals, were distributed at no cost.

This collaborative effort not only mitigated an emerging public health crisis but also deepened the ties between China and Tanzania, with the team's compassion and resilience leaving a lasting impression on the community, said Dai. ■