The Epidemiology of Hookworm Infection among Primary School Pupils in Dantube, Dawakin-Kudu Local Government Area, Kano State, Nigeria

Abstract

Study on the epidemiology of hookworm infection (Ancyclostomiasis and Necatoriasis) was conducted among primary school pupils in Dantube, Dawakin Kudu local government Area of Kano State, between August, 2015 to January, 2016. Of the 400 samples collected and examined, 290 (72.5%) were positive for single or multiple infections. The prevalence of the infection was significantly higher among males (69.31%, p-value 0.102) than females (30.68%, p-value 0.147) (p < 0.05). Children in the age group 10 – 12 years had the highest prevalence (92.68%) of hookworm infection and those between the ages of 13 – 15 years had (26.56%) the least infection. Those children who defecate in the bush were more likely to be infected than those who use modern toilet facilities (R = 0.6). Analysis of the responses from the questionnaire shows that parents' occupation, civil servant (odd ratio = 4.381) and business (odd ratio = 3.147) shows a strong relationship between the prevalence of the disease and risk factors in the research area. Walking with bare feet (odd ratio = 2.142) especially in areas where the soil is damp and moist throughout the year exposed the subject to infection. Hand washing activities (odd ratio = 3.71) have a statistically significant effect on the prevalence of the infection. Personal hygiene and public health enlightenment programs should be encouraged, particularly among school-age children in the research area.