Seek and ye shall find: Molecular surveillance of bird schistosomes and swimmer’s 












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            Number: MA/25/F4/0/009

            Flagship: 4 - Environmental transitions
            Faculty: PřF
            Project leader: Macháček, Tomáš


            Swimmer’s itch (cercarial dermatitis) is a waterborne allergic skin condition caused by bi
            parasites that accidentally infect humans. With reported cases increasing across Europe, i

            outbreaks in Poland and Denmark, the disease presents both public health and socio-economi
            Traditional monitoring relies on collecting and examining aquatic snails, the parasites’ i

            hosts, a process that is labour-intensive and often limited in scope.

            This project builds on the development of an environmental DNA (eDNA) toolkit using loop-m

            isothermal amplification (LAMP) for rapid and reliable detection of bird schistosomes dire
            samples. Fieldwork and training sessions in Poland and Denmark will equip parasitologists 
            needed to collect and process samples, apply molecular techniques, and interpret results. 

            toolkit under different ecological conditions will validate its robustness, reproducibilit
            in diverse settings.


            By fostering cross-border collaboration between research teams in Prague, Copenhagen, and 
            project will establish a sustainable monitoring network, encourage systematic data sharing
            preparedness for emerging parasitic threats. The integration of molecular diagnostics, par

            and environmental science ensures that research outputs will be translated into practical 
            interventions, creating lasting impact beyond the project’s duration.