Prevalence of Geohelminth Infections Among Primary School Children in Liman Katagum Area of Bauchi State, Nigeria.

Abstract

Geohelminth infections remain a significant public health challenge in Nigeria, 
disproportionately affecting children, who are the most vulnerable population. 
Previous studies have consistently reported high prevalence rates among primary 
school-aged children across the country. This study aimed to assess the prevalence 
of geohelminth infections in selected primary schools within the Liman Katagum 
area of Bauchi State, Nigeria, and to identify associated risk factors contributing to 
infection. A total of 384 fecal samples were collected from primary school children 
and analyzed using the Formol-ether concentration technique to detect the 
presence of geohelminth eggs. Statistical analysis was performed using the chi
square test to determine associations between infection rates and various 
demographic and behavioral factors. The findings revealed a moderate prevalence 
of geohelminth infections at 24.2%, with male children exhibiting a slightly higher 
infection rate (56.9%) compared to females (43.0%). However, the difference in 
prevalence between genders was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Among the 
identified geohelminths, Ascaris lumbricoides was the most prevalent species 
(13.1%), followed by Hookworm (6.1%), Trichuris trichiura (5.1%), Strongyloides 
stercoralis (1.5%), and Enterobius vermicularis (1.0%). Age-specific prevalence 
showed that children aged 9–10 years had the highest infection rate at 28.8%, 
whereas children aged 5–6 years exhibited the lowest rate at 19.3%. The differences 
in prevalence between age groups were statistically significant (p < 0.05), indicating 
that age may be a contributing factor to susceptibility. Behavioral and 
environmental factors such as the source of drinking water, playing habits, 
defecation practices, handwashing habits before and after using the toilet, wearing 
footwear, and trimming fingernails were also evaluated. However, no significant 
associations were found between these factors and the prevalence of geohelminth 
infections. To mitigate the burden of geohelminth infections in the area, several 
public health interventions are recommended. These include implementing regular 
school-based deworming campaigns, enhancing public health awareness programs 
targeting both children and their caregivers, and promoting improved 
environmental and personal hygiene practices. These measures are critical for 
reducing infection rates and minimizing the associated health impacts on affected 
children. This study underscores the importance of sustained efforts to combat 
geohelminth infections, particularly in resource-limited settings where children 
remain at heightened risk. Future research should explore additional factors 
contributing to infection dynamics and assess the long-term effectiveness of 
intervention programs.