[Effectiveness of an amphoteric surface agent against Schistosoma mansoni miracidia in field-like conditions in Niger].

The laurylamidopropylbétaïne, a surface active substance, has been tested in field conditions, in Niger, against Schistosoma mansoni miracidia. Experiments were carried out in artificial ponds of 20 m3, in which conditions were similar, as far as possible, to conditions found in transmission sites. The product showed a satisfactory remanence and the percentage of infected molluscs dropped down to zero with a low (2 ppm) concentration. It is suggested that laurylamidopropylbetaïne could be used into soaps in order to renew constantly the product in washing and bathing places and reduce schistosome transmission.