Update on the Status of urogenital schistosomiasis in Some Communities of Ebonyi State, Nigeria

Background: Schistosomiasis is one of the most common parasitic infections in the world, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, ranking second only to malaria in terms of its socio-economic and public health importance in tropical and subtropical areas. There is an urgent need for updated information on the intensity of the disease at the community level to ensure effective disease monitoring. Materials and methods: The study was carried out in sixteen communities in the four local government areas of Ebonyi State. A total of 1,800 urine samples were collected from people of all ages randomly selected for this study. Urine samples were examined for Schistosoma haematobium egg using the standard parasitological method of diagnosis. Haematuria was evaluated using reagent test strips. Results: In this study, 342 (19.0%) persons were infected with S. haematobium. The infection was recorded in all the Communities in the study area, with Enyibichiri having the highest prevalence, n=39 (32.2%), followed by Umuoghara, n = 26 (25.5), while Oshugbu Community had the least prevalence, 5 (6.6%). More males, 225 (20.3%) than females, 117 (16.9%) were significantly infected. Infection prevalence was higher significantly (27.3%) among the age group 11-20 years. Those with light infection intensity 207 (60.5%) were excreting below 50 eggs/10ml urine, 110 (32.2%) had moderate infection intensity excreting between 50-100 eggs/10ml urine while 25 (7.3%) had heavy infection intensity excreting above 100egg/10ml urine. Peak intensity 14 (10.2%) was recorded among 11-20 egg groups. Prevalence of light and moderate intensities varied significantly (P<0 .05) when compared with the prevalence of heavy infection in different age groups, which was not significantly different (P> 0.05). The prevalence of haematuria was 188 (55.0%). The highest prevalence of haematuria (86; 62.3%) was recorded in the age group 11-20 years, while the least was recorded in age 31-40. Conclusion: Based on the findings of this study, the prevalence of urinary schistosomiasis infection in the Central Ebonyi State falls within the WHO classification of endemicity. Urgent need for decisive interventions through mass chemotherapy, focal application of molluscicides in the water bodies during the dry season and sanitation facilities are recommended. Health education is highly advocated