What is the primary use of copper sulfate in environmental health?

Copper sulfate is primarily used in environmental health to eliminate snail hosts, particularly those associated with the transmission of certain diseases like schistosomiasis. This compound acts as a molluscicide, effectively targeting and killing freshwater snails that play a critical role in the life cycle of parasitic worms. By controlling the population of these snails, copper sulfate helps reduce the incidence of diseases that are linked to them, thereby contributing to improved public health outcomes.

While copper sulfate has various applications, such as enhancing soil fertility and treating water for certain contaminants, its most significant role in environmental health specifically relates to its effectiveness in controlling snail populations. This targeted action makes it a vital tool in managing vector-borne disease risks in affected regions.