Survey of Geohelminth Parasites in Soils of Some Selected Motor Stations in Bauchi Metropolis, Bauchi State, Nigeria.

Abstract

Geohelminth infections remain a major public health concern, particularly in developing 
nations where poor sanitation facilitates transmission. Common species such as Ascaris 
lumbricoides, Trichuris trichiura, hookworms, and Strongyloides stercoralis predominantly 
affect children in tropical and subtropical regions. This study evaluated the diversity and 
contamination levels of geohelminth parasites in soils from three major motor parks in 
Bauchi Metropolis, Nigeria, while also assessing environmental risk factors. Soil analysis 
revealed average physico-chemical parameters, including a temperature of 24.29°C, slightly 
alkaline pH (8.17), low moisture content (0.51%), and a predominance of sandy loam soil—
 conditions that may influence parasite survival. Using floatation and sedimentation 
techniques, 180 soil samples were examined, revealing an overall contamination rate of 
30.55%. Muda Lawal Motor Park had the highest prevalence (43%), followed by Yankari 
(31.6%) and Awala (16.7%). Statistical analysis (Chi-square) indicated significant variation 
in contamination levels across the parks (p < 0.05). Among the detected parasites, Ascaris 
lumbricoides was most frequent (25.5%), followed by Strongyloides stercoralis (21.8%), 
hookworms (20%), Enterobius vermicularis (18.2%), and Trichuris trichiura (14.5%). These 
findings confirm moderate soil contamination with geohelminth eggs, posing infection risks 
to humans, particularly children and frequent park visitors. Contributing factors likely 
include poor sanitation and open defecation. Public health interventions, including improved 
hygiene education, sanitation enforcement, and periodic deworming, are recommended to 
mitigate transmission risks in these high-traffic areas.