[The limits and possibilities of the Schistosomiasis Information System (SISPCE) for surveillance and control activities].

The aim of this study was to analyze the limits and possibilities of the Information System in the Schistosomiasis Control Program (SISPCE) for characterization and surveillance of the disease at the local level. The data were aggregated to calculate epidemiological indicators such as the program's coverage and intensity of mansoni schistosomiasis infection in the endemic municipalities (counties) in Bahia State, Brazil, from 1999 to 2005. The results indicate that few municipalities have the program activities properly in place, with insufficient records in the system and lack of reporting for characterizing the endemic or providing feedback for proper surveillance and control. However, the SISPCE is still a step forward in schistosomiasis surveillance, requiring systematic action by the municipalities and maintaining a continuous data flow to orient health system managers. It is necessary to incorporate local communities as units of analysis, given their unique characteristics in the production and reproduction of schistosomiasis.