Prevalence of urogenital schistosomiasis and risk factors for transmission among primary school children in an endemic urban area of Kinondoni municipality in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Abstract

Background: Schistosomiasis is among the neglected tropical diseases that cause significant morbidity and mortality among the vulnerable population including school-aged children. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of urogenital schistosomiasis and risk factors for transmission among primary school children in an endemic urban area of Kinondoni municipality in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Methods: A quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted between June and August 2020. A total of 250 urine samples were collected from primary school children, examined for haematuria using urinalysis test strips, and Schistosoma haematobium (S.haematobium) infection and intensity using the urine filtration technique. A structured questionnaire was used to collect information on water, sanitation, and hygiene risk factors that could influence the transmission of urogenital schistosomiasis. Results: Out of 250 primary school children recruited, 13(5.2%) had haematuria, 3(1.2%) had S.haematobium ova, and all were light-intensity infections. Among the assessed risk factors, the following were significantly associated with the transmission of urogenital schistosomiasis; type of latrine used at home (p=0.044), frequency of swimming (p=0.030), the children who never swallowed praziquantel (p < 0.00), experienced side effects (p < 0.00), type of side effects experienced (p=0.037), and reasons for not taking praziquantel in the last round of mass drug administration (p=0.007). Conclusion: The low prevalence of urogenital schistosomiasis indicates the ongoing transmission of the disease among primary school children. Frequency of swimming, type of latrines used at home, and non-uptake of praziquantel are the risk factors for the infection among primary school children.