[graciegirl]

Originally Posted by golfing eagles

Since you threw in the towel, here's the answer: The intermediate host is a freshwater snail, Biornphalaria glabratta. . Eggs enter freshwater then find this snail, where the larva mature into shistosomes and are released into the water. The shistosomes enter humans through the skin, then migrate to the veins draining the large intestine (in the case of S. mansoni), where they are fruitful and multiply. The adults then lay eggs that get into the bowel and eventually water, completing the cycle.

Before you say this is a very obscure disease, the number of cases in the US is essentially zero, but worldwide it is the most common infection of man, with an estimated 3 billion+ infested. S. mansoni is common in the Caribbean. So for those who retreat there or go on a cruise in winter, enjoy the swimming pools, enjoy the ocean, but DO NOT, repeat DO NOT swim in any fresh water such as lakes or grottos. You might find yourself coming home with more than a suntan and a bottle of rum.

I was reading that snails locally are carrying "brain eating microorganisms". I will be right back with a link.

Deaths associated with eating raw shellfish reported across Florida - Orlando Sentinel

It didn't say snails, just mollusks and shellfish. AND it doesn't mention encephalitis. I am off my game.