A cross sectional study on the prevalence of ascariasis among school children; a case study of ikwo, ebonyi state nigeria

Abstract

Background: Ascariasis is a common intestinal parasitic infection prevalent among school children in many developing countries. Aim: this study was to determine the prevalence of ascariasis among school children in Ikwo Local Government Area (L.G.A.) of Ebonyi State, Nigeria. Material and Method: Between February 2016 and December 2016, a cross-sectional study was conducted, and 300 stool samples were collected from primary school children in Ikwo L.G.A. The brine flotation method was employed for laboratory analysis to detect the presence of Ascaris lumbricoides eggs. The prevalence of ascariasis was calculated by determining the proportion of positive cases among the total number of children examined. Results: Out of the 300 stool samples examined, 180 were found to be infected with Ascaris lumbricoides, yielding a prevalence rate of 60%. Among the infected school children, 170 were males (66.6%) and 130 were females (33.3%). The infection rate among males was significantly higher than among females (p < 0.05). Conclusion: This study identified a high prevalence of ascariasis among school children in Ikwo L.G.A., Ebonyi State, Nigeria. The findings emphasize the need for targeted public health interventions, such as deworming programs and health education campaigns, to reduce the burden of ascariasis and improve the overall health of the affected population, particularly among school-aged children