Prevalence of Soil-Transmitted Helminth Infections and Hygiene Practices among School Children in Nibo Community, Awka South L.G.A., Anambra State, Nigeria.
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Abstract
Soil-transmitted Helminth (STH) infections are a widespread global health concern that disproportionately affects impoverished children in tropical and subtropical regions. This occurs mostly in areas where poor sanitation, lack of access to clean water, and poor hygiene practices provide an environment conducive to their development and transmission. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of intestinal parasites and assess health habits among primary school children aged 1–15 years in Nibo, Awka South L.G.A., Anambra State, Nigeria. Six schools were randomly selected for the study. The Kato-Katz technique was used for parasite identification in the stool samples. Information on the health habits of the children was collected using pre-tested questionnaires. Data were analysed using the chi-square test. Of the 319 pupils examined, 73(22.9%) were positive, with Ezinwankwo school having the highest prevalence, 19(47.5%] ) and Olive Child school the lowest (7 [14%] ). This difference between the highest and lowest prevalence was significant (p=0.000). Three species of intestinal helminths were identified: Ascaris lumbricoides 52(71.2%), hookworm 18 (24.7%), and Trichuris trichiura 3(4.1%). The prevalence among occupations was significant (p=0.008), with children whose parents were farmers having the highest prevalence, 22(34.9%), while those whose parents were Civil Servants had the least, 17(13.9%). The prevalence of infection was significantly associated with health facilities (p=0.027). Children using rain water as a source of water 27(30.0%) and children defaecating in the bush 28(45.2%) had a higher prevalence of infection compared to those using boreholes 22 (15.8 %) and those using water closets 19(11.1%). Teachers and parents need to promote pupils’ well being through comprehensive health education initiatives and periodic deworming exercises, and the government should provide adequate facilities to encourage a hygienic lifestyle among pupils in the school environment
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