PREVALENCE OF SOIL-TRANSMITTED HELMINTH INFECTIONS AMONG CHILDREN IN SCHOOLS WITHIN GADAU, BAUCHI STATE
Abstract
This research aimed to assess the prevalence and contributing factors of soil-transmitted helminth infections among children in Gadau School. Consent was obtained from the parents through the headmasters of the schools Gadau, Local Government Area of Bauchi State selected for this study. Well labeled sample bottles were provided to the randomly selected student from the selected schools. The pupils were all asked to take their early morning faecal sample in the provided container for the analysis. One stool sample was collected from each pupil. Information such as name, sex and age were obtained from each pupil that participated in the study. A total of 229 faecal samples collected were taken to the Laboratory of Department of Biological Sciences, Sa’adu Zungur University Gadau, for analysis and examination. All stool samples collected were analyzed using rapid floatation method with saturated salt solution. The results of this study reveal 10 (4.4%) prevalence of soil-transmitted helminths (STHs) among all 229 children examined. Out of the 229 individuals examined, only Trichuris trichiura was detected, with a prevalence of 10 cases (4.4%) no cases of Strongyloides stercoralis, Necator americanus, or Ascaris lumbricoides were identified. 5-8 years 99 children examined, with 6 (6.1%) prevalence followed by 9-12 years 117 examine with 4 (3.4%) prevalence and 1-4 years 12 pupils examined with 0 prevalence (0%). A total of 100 males were examined with 4 (4%) prevalence. Also 129 females were examined with 6 (4.7) prevalence. 128 children were examined in Gadau with 9 (7.0%) prevalence likewise 101 children were examined in SAZU with 1 (0.9%) prevalence. Since the prevalence is below 20%, WHO recommends annual deworming of school-aged children in such settings, alongside health education, to maintain control and prevent resurgence. Provision of adequate latrines, safe water supply, and waste disposal systems in schools and communities around Gadau and SAZU will help reduce transmission. School-based health education on proper handwashing, safe defecation practices, and nail trimming should be intensified, especially targeting 5–8-year-olds who showed the highest risk.
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