Prevalence of Schistosomiasis among Secondary School Students in KWale Technical College, Delta State, Nigeria
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: This study assessed the prevalence and distribution of schistosomiasis and other parasitic infections among students of Technical College, Kwale, Delta State, Nigeria, and examined the association between infection status and selected demographic and clinical factors. A cross-sectional study was conducted among students of Technical College, Kwale. Stool and urine samples were collected and examined using standard parasitological techniques for the detection of parasitic infections. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and Welch’s t-test to determine associations between infection status and selected variables. Statistical significance was established at p < 0.05. Of the 44 samples examined, stool samples recorded a prevalence of 59.1% (13/22), while urine samples showed a prevalence of 50.0% (11/22). Female students had a higher prevalence of infection (60.0%) than males (47.4%), although the difference was not statistically significant (χ² = 0.28, p = 0.598). A highly significant association was observed between visible blood and infection status (χ² = 14.53, p < 0.001), with all samples exhibiting visible blood testing positive for parasitic infection. Age was also significantly associated with infection status (t = −2.07, p = 0.045). Schistosoma haematobium was the predominant parasite, accounting for 47.37% of all infections, followed by Schistosoma mansoni (31.58%) and Schistosoma japonicum (21.05%). The predominance of schistosome species indicates active transmission within the study area and reflects continued exposure to contaminated freshwater sources. The study demonstrates that schistosomiasis remains a significant public health concern among students in Kwale, Delta State. The high prevalence of Schistosoma haematobium and the strong association between haematuria and infection underscore the need for routine screening, mass drug administration, health education, improved sanitation, and access to safe water. Strengthening integrated schistosomiasis control strategies will be essential for reducing disease transmission and improving the health and educational outcomes of school-aged children in endemic communities.
Language: English
Subfield: Parasitology
Field: Immunology and Microbiology
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7220000213