Epidemiology of Hookworm Infection and the Influence of Some Epidemiological Factors on their Prevalence in Some Farming Communities in Ebonyi State, Nigeria.
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Date
2015
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Abstract
Aims: This study was carried out to assess aspects of the epidemiology of hookworm infection and
the influence of some epidemiological factors on their prevalence in some farming communities in
Afikpo South L.G.A. of Ebonyi State.
Study Design: This was a laboratory-based observational study.
Place and Duration of Study: This study was carried out in the Department of Applied Biology Laboratory, Ebonyi State University, Abakaliki, Nigeria between May, 2013 and November, 2013.
Methodology: A total of 442 stool samples from school children and adults were collected and
examined using direct smear and formol-ether concentration techniques for the presence of the
parasite eggs.
Results: Out of the 442 examined, 35(7.9%) samples were positive for hookworm infections. Other
helminthic infections observed were Ascaris lumbricoides 192(43.4%) and Trichuris trichiura
4(0.9%). The only mixed infections were seen between hookworm and Ascaris lumbricoides which
recorded 21(4.8%) prevalence. There was no significant difference in the rate of infection with
hookworm between the different age groups (X2=2.68; P>0.05), though 8-14 years age group had
the highest infection rate (9.8%) while those between 21-30 had the lowest (3.5%). The sex
distribution showed a higher infection rate in females with prevalence of 22(9.0%) while 13(6.6%)
cases were recorded among the males, however, there was no significant difference in infection
rate between the sexes (X2=0.90; P>0.05).
Conclusion: This study shows that the occurrence and distribution of hookworm and other
geohelminth infections were still high in Afikpo South L.G.A. despite the periodic deworming
exercises by the governmental and non-governmental agencies. The different epidemiological
factors analyzed including farming, use of streams and open defaecation presented the highest risk
factors for hookworm infections. Hence, provision of portable drinking water, adequate sanitary
disposal of faeces and refuse, health education on the mode of transmission of hookworm and
improved personal hygiene should be integrated into the periodic deworming exercises for optimum
result.
Description
Keywords
Hookworm, epidemiology, geohelminth, prevalence, Ascaris lumbricoides, Trichuris trichiura
Citation
Nnachi I A, Odikamnoro O O, Nnachi A U, Ani O C, Uhuo C A, Egwuatu C C. Epidemiology of Hookworm Infection and the Influence of Some Epidemiological Factors on their Prevalence in Some Farming Communities in Ebonyi State, Nigeria. International Journal of TROPICAL DISEASE & Health. 2015; 10(4): 1-10.