Population-level Antibodies Seroprevalence to Parasitic Infections in the Etsako Region, Northern Edo State, Nigeria: A Localized Analysis

Abstract

Abstract Background: Parasitic infections such as schistosomiasis, lymphatic filariasis, and onchocerciasis remain endemic in parts of rural Nigeria. Assessing seroprevalence of exposure through antibody surveillance can reveal patterns of exposure and inform targeted interventions. Objective: The objective is to assess the prevalence and predictors of seroprevalence of prior antibody exposure to selected parasitic infections in urban and rural populations of the Etsako region, northern Edo State, Nigeria. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 500 participants selected using multistage random sampling across urban (Auchi), semiurban (Fugar), and rural (Elele, Iyamho, Agbede) communities. Sociodemographic data and water contact history were collected through structured questionnaires. Serological testing for antibodies to Schistosoma spp., Wuchereria bancrofti , and Onchocerca volvulus was performed using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Statistical analyses included Chi-square tests, Pearson correlations, and binary logistic regression at P < 0.05 significance. Results: Overall antibody prevalence was highest for Schistosoma spp. (47.2%), followed by W . bancrofti (35.0%) and O . volvulus (28.8%). Rural residents and individuals with regular water contact had significantly higher antibody prevalence ( P < 0.05). Regression analysis showed that age (odds ratio [OR] = 1.03, P = 0.020), rural residency (OR = 1.42, P = 0.041), and water contact (OR = 1.58, P = 0.007) were significant predictors of seropositivity, while gender was not ( P = 0.240). Conclusion: Seroprevalence of prior exposure to parasitic infections is prevalent in Etsako, with water exposure and rural residency as key risk factors. These findings highlight the importance of tailoring control efforts to local realities and strengthening public health education within affected communities.