Epidemiological Study of Shistosomiasis in Ningi Local Government Area, Bauchi State, Nigeria

Abstract

Schistosomiasis, a neglected tropical disease, poses significant health burdens in sub-Saharan Africa, including Nigeria. This study examines the epidemiology of schistosomiasis in Ningi LGA, Bauchi State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional study of 1015 participants was conducted, analyzing faecal and urine samples for Schistosomes eggs using centrifugation and formol-ether concentration techniques. Socio-demographic data was collected via a pre-validated questionnaire. The overall schistosomiasis prevalence was 15.07%. Regression analyses identified significant risk factors: age (OR = 5.597), education level (OR = 1.538), occupation (OR = 0.032), and gender (OR = 0.009). Despite mass drug administration (MDA) efforts in Ningi LGA, specific groups (males, 11-20-year-olds, non-educated individuals, and farmers) remain disproportionately affected by schistosomiasis. Enhanced public health strategies, including targeted MDA interventions, are crucial to mitigate transmission cycles.