Prevalence of Schistosomiasis and Associated Risk Factors in Abua/Odual Local Government Area Rivers State Nigeria

Abstract

This study investigated the prevalence of Schistosomiasis and its associated risk factors among primary school pupils in Abua/Odual Local Government Area, Rivers State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional survey was conducted over six weeks (July–August 2022), during which 68 urine samples were collected from pupils in Community Primary School, Omelema, and Community Primary School, Odaga, and examined using the centrifugation method. Overall, 8 (11.9%) samples were positive for Schistosoma haematobium eggs. Infection prevalence was higher in males (17.6%) than females (5.9%), although the difference was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Pupils from CPS Omelema showed a slightly higher prevalence (13.9%) compared to CPS Odaga (9.4%), with no significant association between school and infection (p = 0.564). Age-specific prevalence was highest among pupils aged ≥11 years (20.8%), followed by those aged 8–10 years (8.7%) and 5–7 years (4.8%), though these differences were also not statistically significant. Assessment of risk factors revealed that while over half of the pupils (51.4%) relied on borehole or tap water for drinking, a majority (66.2%) reported frequent contact with stream water, particularly for bathing. Although the overall prevalence was low, these exposure patterns suggest ongoing transmission risks. The study highlights the need for sustained control measures, including improved access to safe water, regular health education, and periodic mass drug administration, to prevent resurgence and support long-term control in the area.