Current water contact and *Schistosoma mansoni* infection have distinct determinants: a data-driven population-based study in rural Uganda

This study characterized patterns and determinants of water contact and *Schistosoma mansoni* infection in rural Uganda. Using data from 2867 individuals, Bayesian variable selection and advanced statistical modeling revealed a 15-year gap between the peak in water contact (age 30) and infection (age 15), with practically no correlation between individual-level water contact and infection. Adult water contact was higher than in children, and most individuals with water contact lived within 0.43 km of water bodies. Domestic water contact was more common for women and children, while occupational water contact was more prevalent in men. Older age and fishing were inconsistently associated with infection. The study identifies at-risk groups and suitable water contact metrics for spatially-targeted interventions and exposure monitoring.

Fabian Reitzug, Narcis B. Kabatereine, Anatol M. Byaruhanga, Fred Besigye, Betty Nabatte, Goylette F. Chami