Prevalence and Risk Factors of Schistosomiasis Among Hausa Communities in Kano State, Nigeria

Abstract

SUMMARYSchistosomiasis remains one of the most prevalent neglected tropical diseases especially in Nigeria which has the greatest number of infected people worldwide. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 551 participants from Kano State, North Central Nigeria. Fecal samples were examined for the presence of Schistosoma mansoni eggs using the formalin-ether sedimentation method while the urine samples were examined using the filtration technique for the presence of S. haematobium eggs. Demographic, socioeconomic and environmental information was collected using a pre-validated questionnaire. The overall prevalence of schistosomiasis was 17.8%, with 8.9% and 8.3% infected with S. mansoni and S. haematobium, respectively and 0.5% presenting co-infection with both species. The multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that age < 18 years (OR = 2.13; 95% CI; 1.34- 3.41), presence of infected family members (OR = 3.98; 95% CI; 2.13-7.46), and history of infection (OR = 2.87; 95% CI; 1.87- 4.56) were the significant risk factors associated with schistosomiasis in these communities. In conclusion, this study revealed that schistosomiasis is still prevalent among Hausa communities in Nigeria. Mass drug administration, health education and community mobilization are imperative strategies to significantly reduce the prevalence and morbidity of schistosomiasis in these communities.

Prevalence of urinary schistosomiasis among primary school pupils in Wamakko Local Government, Sokoto State, Nigeria

“…The lack of significant association of S. haematobium infection with a source of drinking water shows that all pupils are equally exposed to contaminated water bodies. This agrees with the findings of Dawaki et al (2016) in Kano. However, Dawet et al (2012) in Jos North, Plateau State, andNwachukwu et al (2018) reported a significant association of S. haematobium infection with a source of drinking water, as a subject who obtain their water from stream was significantly more infected than those who use well.…”

“…This agrees with the findings of Joseph et al (2010) in Maiduguri, Borno State; Dawet et al (2012) in Jos North, Plateau State; Kabiru et al (2013) in Wamakko, Sokoto State; Damen et al (2018) in North Central;and Nwachukwu et al (2018) in Ebonyi State where they reported no significant association in the occurrence of S. haematobium infection with age. However, Dawaki et al (2016) in Kano and Hassan et al (2017) in Kebbi State reported a significant association of S. haematobium infection with age.…”

Schistosomiasis in Children in the Philippines: Beyond Health Issues

“…1,52 Children who also take a bath, play, and extend household chores in the same waters are at an increased chance of acquiring schistosomal infection. 53 In developing countries like the Philippines, the highest prevalence of undernutrition and anemia along with parasitic burden is recorded among children. 54 In addition, nutritional deficiencies are manifested in Schistosoma-infected children and adolescents.…”

“…52 The mobility of young individuals in relation to their activities involving water, such as swimming, bathing, and playing, make them highly vulnerable to infection by Schistosoma. 53 Against this premise, it is important that children be informed that snail-infested waters must be avoided, especially because children pick and play with snails.…”

Association between Schistosoma mansoni Infection Rates in Humans and in Biomphalaria pfeifferi snails in Akwanga, Nasarawa State, Nigeria

“…Schistosomiasis is one of the most prevalent neglected tropical diseases and among parasitic diseases, it ranks second only to malaria in terms of morbidity [1]. An estimated 206.4 million people in 78 countries require preventive treatment for schistosomiasis and 91% of people requiring treatment reside in Africa (WHO, 2018).…”