Handwashing Practices Among Children in Public Schools in Imo State, Nigeria

This study examined the availability and utilization of handwashing facilities among public primary school pupils in Okigwe Education Zone two (2) of Imo State, Nigeria. Four research questions were posed to guide the study. One hypothesis was formulated and tested. The study adopted a survey research design. Random sampling technique was used to select a sample size for the study. 295 pupils (age bracket 6–14 years) from 12 public primary schools and their form teachers participated in the study. Data were collected with the aid of a structured questionnaire designed from UNICEF's checklist modules for appraising hand washing facilities in schools. Also, observation and focus group discussion were used for the data collection on handwashing practices among pupils using hand washing facilities.Data generated were analyzed using percentage and frequency distribution counts in order to answer the research questions. All information from the focus group discussion using codes and themes were transcribed, grouped and analyzed based on the specific objectives. Findings suggest that out of the twelve schools observed, only two schools had both a handwashing basin with clean water that runs and improvised handwashing facilities at the same time. Based on the findings, hand washing facilities and supplies should be a major priority in all primary schools in Okigwe Education Zone 2 because of its importance in preventing communicable diseases. School health educators should work in conjunction with the Parents Teachers Association of each school to ensure constant and adequate provision of handwashing facilities and supplies. This will further encourage their usage and also reduce absence from schools due to infections.