Hookworm infections among the school-aged children in Okuta Community, Kwara State, Nigeria

Abstract

Human hookworm infection, as an important soil transmitted helminth, affects both young and adult in most resource-poor communities in sub-tropical part of the developing world. This study was conducted to investigate the prevalence, intensity and associated risk factors of hookworm infection in two secondary schools of Okuta, Baruten Local Government of Kwara State, Nigeria. A total of 304 stool samples were screened parasitologically using Kato-Katz thick smear method. Data regarding socio-demographic and behavioural risk factors were obtained using pre-tested structured questionnaire. The overall prevalence of hookworm infection was 17.8% with average intensity of 718.67 ± 160.86 epg. The prevalence and intensity of infection follows the same pattern, significantly related (p= 0.001) with the age of individual with peak of infection rate 25 years age-group and independent of sex (p =  0.995) with males (55.6%, 748.00  191.91) and females (44.4%, 682.00  103.27). The study observed that variables such as taking of anti-helminths drugs, parents’ occupation, age-group and source of drinking water were significant (p < 0.05). Therefore, intervention measures such as chemotherapy, provision of adequate sanitary facilities and safe drinking water would help to ameliorate hookworm infection.

Keywords: hookworm, Okuta, Kato-Katz, intensity, chemotherapy.