Human water contact activities and associated urogenital schistosomiasis in Nkalagu Community, Ebonyi State, Nigeria

Abstract

There is much evidence that peoples’ behaviour affects agents, host, and the environment and that behaviour can also either increase or decrease the risk of a disease. This study was conducted in a schistosomiasis-endemic area of Nkalagu in order to observe the different water-contact activities capable of promoting urogenital schistosomiasis transmission in the area. The study was conducted between August 2014 to January 2015. Two different sites were mapped out for study (Abashi and Edenvu Rivers) in Imoha and Ishiagu villages respectively. Observations were made on daily basis between 7 am and 5 pm in two shifts, 7-12 noon and 1-5 pm. A recording booklet was used to record the different type of water contact made by each individual at the time of entry and exit out of the water. Other variables such as sex and age were also recorded.

Keywords: Water contact; activities; behaviour; schistosomiasis; Rivers; Nkalagu