Prevalence, infection intensity, and risk factors of soil-transmitted helminthiasis and intestinal schistosomiasis among schoolchildren in Southern Ethiopia

Abstract

Overall, soil-transmitted helminthiasis (STHs) and Schistosoma mansoni remain significant public health concerns in the study area, affecting more than one-third of schoolchildren. Infections were strongly associated with poor hygiene practices, inadequate deworming coverage, and exposure to contaminated water sources. This highlights the need for improved hygiene, health education, and deworming programs.