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Prevalence of Urinary Schistosomiasis Among Irrigation Farmers in North Central Nigeria

Damen JG , Kopkuk ED and Lugos MD

Due to the increase in population and the demand for food supply there has been an increase in irrigation and construction of dams, these have aided the spread of schistosomiasis.

Aim: This study was conducted to determine the prevalence of urinary schistosomiasis among irrigation farmers in Jos South Local Government Area of Plateau state, North central Nigeria.

Materials and Method: A total of 150 specimens were collected within the periods of October to December 2010. Urine specimens were examined for eggs of Schistosoma haematobium by sedimentation technique. Participant’s demographic information was obtained by questionnaires. Data obtained were age and gender.

Results: Out of 150 urine specimens examined 28 (18.7%) were positive for Schistosomiasis haematobium. The highest prevalence of infections were recorded among participants within the age group of 21-30; 11 (19.0%), There was no significance difference in the occurrence of infection in relation to age group (P>0.05). Male participants had a higher prevalence 27 (18.9%) compared to their females counterparts 1 (14.2%) although, the relationship between rate of infection and gender was not statistically significant (P>0.05). Deyi village recorded a higher prevalence of 23 (20.0%) compared to Zawan village 5 (16.7%).

Conclusion: The study has revealed the presence of Urinary Schistosomiasis in Deyi and Du villages of Jos South L.G.A. Therefore we advocate government intervention especially in the area of chemotherapy of infected persons with praziquantel, regular screening of people who are at risk of contracting infection and public health awareness with respect to disease transmission as these will go a long way to halt the cycle of infection.