Soil-Transmitted Helminthiasis among Pupils in Semi-Urban Communities in Anambra State, Nigeria

Aim: This study was aimed at determining the prevalence of soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections among pupils in semi-urban communities in Aguata Local Government Area, Anambra State, Nigeria.

Study Design: The study was a cross-sectional, school-based study.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out in three communities namely Ekwulobia, Isuofia and Igboukwu in Aguata Local Government Area (LGA) of Anambra State, southeast Nigeria. The laboratory analysis were carried out at the laboratory of the Department of Parasitology and Entomology Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, between September – December 2023.

Methodology: A total of 326 randomly selected pupils, aged 3-14 years old attending public primary schools in Aguata LGA were sampled for STH infections. Stool specimen were collected and examined for soil transmitted helminth parasites using the Kato-Katz technique.

Results: Of the 326 pupils examined 24.2% (79) were positive for at least one soil-transmitted helminth parasite. Ascaris lumbricoides was the most prevalent 18.7% (61), followed by Trichuris trichiura 2.7% (9) and hookworms 0.9% (3). Co-infections of A. lumbricoides and T. trichuira 5 (1.5%) and A. lumbricoides and Hookworm 0.3% (1) were also observed. Pupils of the age group 3-6 years showed the highest prevalence 29.5% (21). Males had a higher prevalence 25.6% (37) than females 23.0% (42). Only light intensity infections were observed.

Conclusion: Soil-transmitted helminth infections still pose a public health challenge among pupils in Anambra State. Annual deworming programmes should be sustained and be complemented with continuous health enlightenment programmes as well as improved sanitation.