Intestinal helminthiasis among malnourished school age children in peri-urban area of Ibadan, Nigeria

Abstract

This study was carried out between November and December 1999 in a peri urban area of Ibadan in Lagelu Local Government Area to determine the prevalence rate of intestinal helminth infection among malnourished school children. Stool samples and finger prick blood samples were respectively collected from pupils in form 3 to form 6 for analysis. The relationship between infection and their nutritional status was determined using such parameters as weight, height, age, sex, arm to head circumference. The haematocrit value and worm density in subjects were determined to rate level of infectivity in the individual.
The study shows that there are three common intestinal worms in the area Ascaris lumbricoides has the highest prevalence rate of 40.7% followed by Tribchuris trichiura (4.8%) and hookworm (4.4%).
Age and sex gender made no significant difference in the distribution of infection (P >0.05). however, there was a significant effect on weight and height by worm burden (P <0.05). Worm density impact negatively on the blood level in body thereby precipitating anaemia in the children. Epidemiological factors affecting the infection among the subject is discussed.
The strategies for control of the infection are discussed. It is recommended that the public be adequately health educated on the epidemiology of the infection through the mass media and community health talks. The academic curriculum in schools should include epidemiology and control of parasitic infestation. Periodic mass treatment of children is advocated.


(Af. J. of Clinical and Experimental Microbiology: 2002 3(1): 24-28)