Impact of Schistosoma Mansoni Infection on the Gut Microbiome and Hepatitis B Vaccine Immune Response in Fishing Communities of Lake Victoria, Uganda.

Abstract

This study examines the impact of Schistosoma mansoni infection on the gut microbiome and the immune response to the hepatitis B vaccine among Ugandan fishing communities. Participants were tested for S. mansoni and treated if infected, then received hepatitis B vaccination at baseline, 1 month, and 6 months. Stool samples were analyzed using 16S rRNA sequencing. Findings suggest that infection and increased microbiome diversity at baseline are associated with enhanced vaccine response, whereas older age is linked to weaker responses. This underscores the importance of infection control and microbiome optimization in vaccine programs for endemic areas.