PREVALENCE OF ANCYLOSTOMA DUODENALE AND TRICURIS TRICHIURA INFECTIONS AMONG PRIMARY SCHOOL CHILDREN IN A PART OF EBONYI STATE, NIGERIA

Ancylostoma duodenale Tricuris trichiura
A. duodenale T. trichiura
Ancylostoma duodenale Tricuris trichiura
and infections are among the leading causes
of child morbidity in the developing countries like Nigeria. This cross-sectional study
was carried out to determine the prevalence of these parasites among primary school
children. Faecal samples from 175 pupils randomly selected from four primary schools
in Onicha Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, were examined using direct
microscopy and sodium chloride floatation techniques. A well structured questionnaire
was used to obtain information from participants. Results showed overall prevalence
of 14.9% for both parasites. was more prevalent (10.9%) than
(4.0%). The highest prevalence of the parasites occurred in pupils between the age
group 10-12 years (27.1%); pupils who used pond as source of water supply had
prevalence of 24.5%; pupils who practiced bush defecation system had (16.0%) and
pupils whose parents were farmers had (19.5%). There was no statistical relationship
between gender, parents' occupation, location of schools and infection (P > 0.05). The
implication of infection of the pupils with these parasites is a potential interference
with the quality of their life. Provision of basic amenities such as portable water supply,
standard toilets facilities in public places is recommended to help reduce the rate of
transmission of the parasites.