Detection of urinary schistosomiasis among school age children in Ukwuani L.G.A of Delta State, Nigeria

Abstract

Schistosomiasis is a water-borne disease also known as bilharziasis or snail fever. It is a major disease of public health and the second most prevalent tropical disease after malaria. This study was carried out to detect the prevalence of urinary schistosomiasis among school children in Ukwuani L.G.A of Delta State, Nigeria. Urine samples (n=280) were collected from 9 volunteered primary and post-primary schools between May and July, 2009. Centrifuge concentration technique was used in the analysis of urine samples for the eggs of Schistosoma haematobium. 16 (5.71%) were infected with the parasite with males having a slightly high prevalence rate of 10 (3.57%) than females 6 (2.14%). Males within the age group of 11-20 were found to have the highest rate (2.14%) compared with their females (1.43%). This result is indicative of low visit to the hospital following infection of any kind and the source of drinking water in the community was poor. Many of these children engage in different water activities such as fishing, swimming, washing and fetching of water. The statistical analysis using T-test (P<0.05) showed no significant difference in the prevalence rate between age and sex. Therefore regular health education on the possible transmission of this parasite and community based treatment should be embarked upon in the school and community so as to curtail the spread and re-infection of individuals.