Communal evaluation of Intestinal Helminthes in some Guineaworm- Controlled Communities in Ogun State, Nigeria

Abstract

he public health concern for intestinal helminthes emphasizes the need for assessment to reduce the burden of diseases. The study which was conducted from July 2008 to February 2009 evaluates the impact of health education on the prevalence of intestinal helminthes. Stool samples from 93 males and 125 females (5 years of age and above) were collected asepticallyfrom respondents in guinea worm-controlled communities of Abata, Ikija, Kooku, Ogboye and Agbugburu in Odeda Local Government area of Ogun State. Stools were examined using Kato-Katz technique, and structured questionnaires used to elicit knowledge and perception of the parasites. Results revealed that 34 (15.6%) of the 218 persons examined were infected with intestinal helminths. Ascaris lumbricoides was observed to be more prevalent with 21 out of 218 persons examined were infected (9.63%), followed by hookworm which was found in 9 out of 218 (4.13%) and Trichuris trichiura which was found in 4 out of 218 people examined (1.84%); though with no significant differences (p>0.05) in the prevalence of helminth parasites. Females (10.4%) were more infected than males (8.6%), but no significant difference in infection status with respect to sex (p>0.05). Infections were high in age group 5-19 years, but decreased with increasing age level with no significant differences in the prevalence at p>0.05. Evaluation of respondents’ knowledge revealed that most (90.4%) are aware of intestinal parasites. Results also showed that previous health education had significant effect on the prevalence level of helminthes observed. There is the need for more health measures that will be directed at the community level in terms of free health periodical/ drug administration against parasitic diseases. Key words: Health education, impact, intestinal helminthes, Ogun State.