High prevalence of urogenital schistosomiasis among schoolchildren in an irrigated area in Gezira State, Sudan: a brief report.

Abstract

Urogenital schistosomiasis remains a major public health problem in irrigated areas of Sudan. We conducted a cross-sectional descriptive survey to determine the prevalence and intensity of Schistosoma haematobium infection and associated risk factors among basic schoolchildren in Althawra Mobi Village, Wad Madani Alkobra Locality, Gezira State. A total of 261 children aged 5-16 years were examined using urine centrifugation and microscopy. The overall prevalence was 44% (115/261), with most infections classified as light intensity (102/115). Infection was markedly higher among boys (96.5%) than among girls (3.5%). Frequent contact with irrigation canals for swimming, bathing, washing, and watering animals was significantly associated with infection, despite tap water being the main source of drinking water. These findings confirm ongoing transmission of urogenital schistosomiasis in irrigated communities of Gezira and highlight the need for sustained preventive chemotherapy, health education, and improved sanitation to reduce exposure among school-age children.