How does walking barefoot affect a persons chance of becoming infected with schistosoma?

Walking barefoot can increase a person's risk of schistosomiasis, as the larvae of the Schistosoma parasite can penetrate the skin through contact with contaminated water. This exposure typically happens in freshwater bodies where the snails that carry the larvae thrive. Wearing shoes provides a barrier that helps protect against these infections. Thus, individuals who frequently walk barefoot in endemic areas are more susceptible to contracting schistosomiasis.