Vectorial Potential of Cockroaches in Transmitting Parasites of Medical Importance in Arkilla, Sokoto, Nigeria

Abstract

A study was conducted to determine the role of cockroaches as potential carriers of parasites of medical importance in Arkilla Federal Low Cost, Sokoto, Nigeria from October 2011 to February 2012. A total of 218 cockroaches, comprising of two species were collected from different locations using sweep net and examined for human intestinal parasites using the concentration method. The dominant cockroach species was Periplaneta americana 145 (66.51%) followed by Blatta orientalis 73 (33.49%). Six medically important parasites were encountered in the following order Entamoeba histolytica (40.83%), Ascaris lumbricoides (28.40%), Enterobius Vermicularis (15.98%), Schistosoma mansoni (9.48%), S. haematobium (2.95%) and Trichuris trichura (2.36%). There was no statistically significant difference (p > 0.05) in the isolates between cockroach species and stage of development. However significant differences (p < 0.05) were observed between sexes and sites of cockroach collection. Therefore, as cockroaches continue to constitute important reservoir for infectious pathogens, control measures instituted in toilets, kitchens; and targeting especially the females and both stages of development of cockroach could substantially minimize the spread of infectious diseases in the study area.