European Journal of Biotechnology and Bioscience

Authors
Nanvyat N, Ajiji JA, Dakul DA

Abstract
Background: Despite all the control efforts targeted at the parasite and the snail intermediate host, Schistosomiasis still remains a serious Neglected Tropical Disease. Objective: A survey was carried out in Tudun Wada area in Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State, Nigeria aimed at evaluating the prevalence of the disease among primary school children of the area. The work was done between the month of April 2004 and July 2004. Methods: A total number of 400 samples were collected comprising of 200 stool samples and 200 urine samples from the primary pupils in the area. The stool samples were concentrated using the formol ether technique and the urine samples were processed by centrifugal sedimentation techniques. Results: Eight (8) samples were positive for intestinal schistosomiasis indicating a prevalence of 2% and none was positive for urinary schistosomiasis giving a prevalence of 0%. Six (2.1%) cases of schistosomiasis were recorded amongst males while only 2(1.8%) cases were recorded in females. Four (2.0%) cases of schistosomiasis were recorded in age group (11-15) years and the other 4(2.9%) cases were recorded within age group (6-10) years. One (0.7%) case of the disease was recorded amongst pupils that used well water while 7(35.0%) cases were recorded amongst pupils who used rivers/streams as source of water. Conclusion: The prevalence recorded in this area is low but still, awareness campaigns should be embark upon in this area and treatment should be administered to the few who are positive for the disease.