Prevalence Of Schistosomiasis Research Articles

Cost-effectiveness of sentinel screening of endemic diseases alongside malaria diagnosis: A case study in schistosomiasis.

In countries where malaria is endemic, the use of rapid diagnostic tests(RDTs) has become routine, especially in rural settings. Such regions are characterised by often having other co-endemic infectious diseases, at high levels of prevalence. To illustrate the potential added-value of "sentinel" screening for patients presenting for a routine diagnostic test for malaria, at healthcare facilities in Uganda. We developed an economic model by combining two decision trees, one for malaria and a second for the co-endemic disease schistosomiasis. The integrated model was designed to inform policy strategies for the co-endemic disease in addition to malaria (i.e., whether to test opportunistically for schistosomiasis or use mass drug administration(MDA) as per usual practice).We performed the analysis on three comparators varying testing accuracy and costs. Sentinel screening can provide added value to the testing of patients compared with the status quo: when schistosomiasis prevalence is high then MDA is preferential; if low prevalence, treating no one is preferred. If the disease has average levels of prevalence, then a strategy involving testing is preferred. Prevalence thresholds driving the dominant strategy are dependent upon the model parameters, which are highly context specific. At average levels of prevalence for schistosomiasis and malaria for Uganda, adding a sentinel screening was cost-effective when the accuracy of test was higher than current diagnostics and when economies of scope were generated(Expected value clinical Information = 0.65$ per DALY averted, 137.91$ per correct diagnoses).Protocols using diagnostics with current accuracy levels were preferred only for levels of MDA coverage below 75%. The importance of the epidemiological setting is crucial in determining the best cost-effective strategy for detecting endemic disease. Economies of scope can make sentinel screenings cost-effective strategies in specific contexts. Blanket thresholds recommended for MDA may not always be the preferred option for endemic diseases.

Detection of Urinary Analytes due to Schistosoma haematobium Infection among School Children for Possible Application in Screening for Urinary Schistosomiasis

Study’s Novelty/Excerpt This study introduces an approach for the rapid screening and diagnosis of urinary schistosomiasis using urinalysis in remote communities, where advanced diagnostic techniques are often unavailable. By analyzing 600 school children across six Local Government Areas in Kaduna State, Nigeria, the research highlights significant associations between urinary schistosomiasis and specific urinalysis indicators, such as leukocytes, proteinuria, and micro-hematuria. This method not only demonstrates the feasibility of immediate treatment initiation but also underscores the potential for preventing the chronicity and further community spread of the disease, addressing a critical gap in current public health strategies for rural settings. Full Abstract Urinary schistosomiasis is a disease that has persisted for a long time among children in Nigeria and other African countries. The persistence of schistosomiasis in people living in rural communities is attributed to the abundance of unsafe water bodies where both children and adults engage in activities such as irrigation, bathing, fishing, washing, or fetching water for domestic use. The lack of adequate community-based screening and treatment of infected cases has contributed to the continuous spread of schistosomiasis from endemic communities to new areas. Urinalysis can serve as a rapid method for screening for urinary schistosomiasis among populations in remote locations, enabling immediate treatment and the prevention of its transmission. In this study, 600 school children who gave their consent were enrolled across six Local Government Areas in Kaduna State, Nigeria. A fresh 10mL urine sample was collected from each subject, and eleven analytes were immediately determined upon submission using urine reagent test strips (SG11100-Uric 11V, Guilin Zhonghui Technology Co., Ltd, China). The urine samples underwent centrifugation at 3000 revolutions per minute for 5 minutes, and the sediment from each sample was examined microscopically for Schistosoma haematobium eggs. The data were analyzed statistically at a 95% confidence interval using IBM SPSS Version 23. The overall prevalence of urinary schistosomiasis among the children in the six LGAs of Kaduna State was 6.8%, with heavy infections at 2.2% and light infections at 4.7%. Significant associations were found between urinary schistosomiasis and the presence of leukocytes (18.5%, χ2=47.596, df=1, P=0.000, OR=8.822), proteinuria (23.1%, χ2=17.287, df=1, P=0.000, OR=4.959), and micro-hematuria (49.3%, χ2=213.184, df=1, P=0.000, OR=63.695). This study demonstrates that urinalysis can be effectively utilized for screening urinary schistosomiasis in remote communities where advanced techniques like microscopy may not be available, facilitating prompt treatment initiation. Therefore, early detection and treatment are crucial in preventing the chronicity and community spread of the disease.

Ultrasonography Analysis and Incidence of Urinary Schistosomiasis among some Selected Junior Secondary School Students in Rigachikun, Igabi Local Government Area, Kaduna State, Nigeria

Study’s Excerpt/Novelty This study assesses urinary schistosomiasis prevalence and associated ultrasonographic abnormalities among school-aged children in Rigachikun, Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State. By combining urine sample analysis and ultrasound examination, the research identifies a significant infection rate (5.00%) and highlights the presence of urinary tract abnormalities in 70% of infected subjects. The findings underscore the ongoing disease burden of schistosomiasis in the region and advocate for expanded research on adult populations and snail intermediate hosts to inform targeted intervention strategies. Full Abstract This study evaluated urinary schistosomiasis and ultrasonography incidence among school-aged children in Rigachikun, Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State. Three hundred urine samples were collected from students within 5-16 years from 3 selected schools. The samples were tested for urinary schistosomiasis, and information was gathered using a standardized questionnaire. The weight and height of the samples were measured using an electronic scale (9201 SV3R) and a portable stadiometer (ADE MZ10042). 5.29% of males and 3.70% of females tested positive for urinary schistosomiasis. Ultrasound examination was performed on ten positive and one negative subjects for confirmation. The mean age was 11.00±5.72 years. Seven out of ten (70%) subjects showed urinary tract abnormalities. The ultrasound findings revealed two out of ten (20%) had bladder wall thickening, four out of ten (40%) had an irregular shape of the bladder wall, and ureteric dilatation was observed in one out of ten (10%) among the subjects. Ultrasound is a useful tool for identifying the morbidity of S. haematobium. Schistosomiasis infection amongst schools in Rigachikun was established at 5.00%. This has confirmed that schistosomiasis is still a disease burden amongst school-aged students in Rigachikun and, by extension, all the study area's inhabitants. It can be recommended that further studies need to be carried out on adults and snail intermediate hosts.

Factors associated with hookworm and Schistosoma mansoni infections among school-aged children in Mayuge district, Uganda

BackgroundHookworm infection and schistosomiasis are two of sub-Saharan Africa's most common neglected tropical diseases. An annual mass drug administration (MDA) program against schistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminths (STHs), including hookworm, has been implemented in Mayuge district, Uganda, since 2003 to date. However, hookworm and schistosomiasis remain prevalent in Mayuge district. Understanding the factors that predispose children to these infections in the context of MDA could inform interventions to reduce prevalence in Uganda and similar settings.MethodThis cross-sectional study took place in 33 randomly selected primary schools in the Mayuge district from January to February 2022. Children in primary classes 4 or 5, in the selected schools provided single stool samples and completed questionnaires. Stool specimens were examined using the Kato-Katz method to determine the prevalence of hookworm and schistosomiasis. We performed univariable and multivariable logistic regression to assess the associations of each infection with potential risk factors.ResultA total of 1,617 students (mean age 12.1 years, 50.1% male) were enrolled. The prevalence of hookworm infection and schistosomiasis was 21.8% (95% confidence interval (CI): 19.8–23.9%) and 18.7% (95% CI: 16.8–20.7%), respectively. In multivariable analysis, longer water fetching time (over 30 min versus less than 30 min) and working daily in the soil were associated with increased odds of hookworm infection (adjusted odds ratio (AOR): 1.49, 95% CI: 1.13–1.96 and 1.37, 95% CI: 1.03–1.82, respectively). Higher odds of schistosomiasis were linked to proximity to water bodies within a one-hour walking distance (AOR: 1.84, 95% CI: 1.35–2.50), and not always washing hands before eating (AOR: 2.00, 95% CI: 1.50–2.67). Swimming, bathing, or washing in water bodies twice a week, compared to never, also increased schistosomiasis odds (AOR: 2.91, 95% CI: 1.66–5.13).ConclusionConsistent with the mechanisms of acquisition, hookworm infection increased with exposure to soil, and schistosomiasis increased with exposure to unclean water. Our findings highlight the importance of Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene programs and strategies aimed at reducing exposure within the framework of Neglected Tropical Disease elimination programs.

Revealing bovine schistosomiasis in Malawi: Connecting human and hybrid schistosomes within cattle

In Malawi, the putative origin of a newly described Schistosoma haematobium-mattheei hybrid human schistosome was assessed upon a seminal molecular parasitological survey of cattle. Using miracidia hatch test (MHT) and carcass inspection at slaughter, mean prevalence of bovine schistosomiasis was 49.1% (95% CI: 43.7–54.6%) and 10.3% (95% CI: 6.0–16.2%) respectively, though significant spatial heterogeneity was noted. Approximately 2.0% of infected cattle, and only those from Mangochi District, shed S. haematobium-mattheei and/or S. haematobium in faeces. To quantify schistosome (re)infection dynamics, where a S. haematobium-mattheei hybrid was present, we undertook a novel pilot GPS-datalogging sub-study within a specific herd of cattle (n = 8) on the Lake Malawi shoreline, alongside a praziquantel (40 mg/kg) treatment efficacy spot check. At sub-study baseline, all GPS-tagged cattle had proven daily water contact with the lake. Each animal was patently infected upon MHT, with older animals shedding less miracidia. At one month review, whilst parasitological cure was 100.0%, from six weeks onwards, (re)infection was first noted in the youngest animal. By three-month review, all animals were patently (re)infected though only miracidia of S. mattheei were recovered, albeit in much lower numbers. To conclude, infection with S. mattheei is particularly common in cattle and demonstrates a previously cryptic burden of bovine schistosomiasis. Within Mangochi District, bovine transmission of both S. haematobium-mattheei hybrids and S. haematobium are now incriminated, with unequivocal evidence of contemporary zoonotic spill-over. Future control of urogenital schistosomiasis here in the southern region needs to develop, then successfully integrate, a One Health approach with appropriate mitigating strategies to reduce and/or contain bovine schistosomiasis transmission.

Schistosomiasis transmission in Zimbabwe: Modelling based on machine learning

Zimbabwe, located in Southern Africa, faces a significant public health challenge due to schistosomiasis. We investigated this issue with emphasis on risk prediction of schistosomiasis for the entire population. To this end, we reviewed available data on schistosomiasis in Zimbabwe from a literature search covering the 1980-2022 period considering the potential impact of 26 environmental and socioeconomic variables obtained from public sources. We studied the population requiring praziquantel with regard to whether or not mass drug administration (MDA) had been regularly applied. Three machine-learning algorithms were tested for their ability to predict the prevalence of schistosomiasis in Zimbabwe based on the mean absolute error (MAE), the root mean squared error (RMSE) and the coefficient of determination (R2). The findings revealed different roles of the 26 factors with respect to transmission and there were particular variations between Schistosoma haematobium and S. mansoni infections. We found that the top-five correlation factors, such as the past (rather than current) time, unsettled MDA implementation, constrained economy, high rainfall during the warmest season, and high annual precipitation were closely associated with higher S. haematobium prevalence, while lower elevation, high rainfall during the warmest season, steeper slope, past (rather than current) time, and higher minimum temperature in the coldest month were rather related to higher S. mansoni prevalence. The random forest (RF) algorithm was considered as the formal best model construction method, with MAE = 0.108; RMSE = 0.143; and R2 = 0.517 for S. haematobium, and with the corresponding figures for S. mansoni being 0.053; 0.082; and 0.458. Based on this optimal model, the current total schistosomiasis prevalence in Zimbabwe under MDA implementation was 19.8%, with that of S. haematobium at 13.8% and that of S. mansoni at 7.1%, requiring annual MDA based on a population of 3,003,928. Without MDA, the current total schistosomiasis prevalence would be 23.2%, that of S. haematobium 17.1% and that of S. mansoni prevalence at 7.4%, requiring annual MDA based on a population of 3,521,466. The study reveals that MDA alone is insufficient for schistosomiasis elimination, especially that due to S. mansoni. This study predicts a moderate prevalence of schistosomiasis in Zimbabwe, with its elimination requiring comprehensive control measures beyond the currently used strategies, including health education, snail control, population surveillance and environmental management.

Re-assessment of schistosomiasis in nine endemic districts with cluster sampling in Sierra Leone.

Baseline mapping showed that schistosomiasis was highly/moderately endemic in nine districts in Sierra Leone. Mass drug administration (MDA) with praziquantel started in 2009, and after multiple rounds of treatment, an impact assessment was conducted in 2016 followed by a second re-assessment in 2022 using cluster sampling to provide more granular data for refining chiefdom (sub-district) treatment strategies. On average, 20 rural villages were systematically selected per district by probability proportional to population size across the nine districts. Surveys were conducted in schools, and 24 school children aged between 5 and 14 years were randomly selected, with an equal number of boys and girls. One stool sample and one urine sample were collected per child. Two Kato-Katz slides were examined per stool for Schistosoma mansoni infection. Hemastix strips were used as a proxy for S. haematobium infection with urine filtration used for egg counts on hematuria-positive samples. In total, 4,736 stool samples and 4,618 urine samples were examined across 200 schools in 125 chiefdoms. Overall, the prevalence of S. mansoni was 16.3% (95% CI: 15.3-17.4%), while the overall prevalence of S. haematobium was 2.0% (95% CI: 1.6-2.4%) by hematuria. The prevalence of heavy infections for S. mansoni and S. haematobium was 1.5% (95% CI: 1.1-1.9%) and 0.02% (95% CI: 0.0-0.14%), respectively. Among 125 chiefdoms surveyed, the overall schistosomiasis prevalence was <10% in 65 chiefdoms, 10-49.9% in 47 chiefdoms, and ≥ 50% in 13 chiefdoms. There was a mixed relationship between schistosomiasis in school children and WASH access in schools. Sierra Leone has made significant progress in reducing schistosomiasis prevalence across the country after a decade of MDA intervention. However, high prevalence remains in some hotspot chiefdoms. The next steps are for the national program to investigate and address any potential issues such as low coverage or poor knowledge of schistosomiasis risk behaviors and, where appropriate, consider broadening to community-wide treatment in hotspot chiefdoms or communities.

Impact of Mass Drug Distribution (MDD) of Praziquantel on Schistosomiasis through Sentinel Site Monitoring in Mali

Background—Mali was one of the first countries in sub-Saharan Africa to initiate a National Schistosomiasis Control Program (NSCP) in 1982. The WHO’s 2021–30 roadmap sets out the criteria for eliminating and controlling schistosomiasis as a public health problem. Our study aimed to assess the impact of annual mass drug distribution (MDD) of praziquantel (PZQ) on the prevalence and intensity in school-aged children (SAC) at NSCP sentinel sites (SSs). Methods—This study took place at twelve SSs in the Kayes and Koulikoro regions. Two-round cross-sectional studies were carried out in December 2014–2015 and in April 2018 after four to five years of annual MDD. Our sample size was 2439 schoolchildren aged 7 to 14 years, i.e., 485 in the first round (2014), 246 in the second round (2015) and 1708 in the third round (2018). Urine filtration and the Kato–Katz method were used for determining Schistosoma haematobium and S. mansoni eggs, respectively. Results—A total of 1708 samples were successfully examined. Of the twelve SSs treated from 2014–2015, one met the criterion for elimination of S. haematobium as a public health problem (prevalence of heavy-intensity infections (PHI) &lt; 1%) (i.e., ≥50 S. haematobium eggs per 10 mL of urine or ≥400 S. mansoni eggs per g of stool) and four met the morbidity control criterion (PHI &lt; 5%), while two sites remained below the morbidity control criterion (PHI &gt; 5%). Five SSs had no heavy-intensity infections. The prevalence of S. mansoni was less than 1%. Conclusion—The impact of MDD of praziquantel in the SSs of the NSCP highlights that it has significantly reduced the PHI of schistosomiasis. However, the high prevalence of schistosomiasis or its increase in some sites requires in-depth studies.

Community-Based Intervention and Its Effect on Decreasing the Prevalence of Urinary Schistosomiasis in an Al-Alaqa Male Primary school in Al-Alaqa Village White Nile State, Sudan

Aim of studyThis study assessed the effectiveness of community-based interventions, health awareness, and treatment in controlling schistosomiasis among schoolchildren to improve policies and strategies. MethodsThis pre- and post-intervention study was conducted in an Al-Alaqa male primary school, and systematic simple random sampling was used to investigate 237 participants, which resulted in 132 (55.7%) infected students. The infected and noninfected students (580 students) were treated by delivering the praziquantel doses immediately after the results; after 4 weeks, the infected students received the second dose. After 6 months, the rates were investigated again, and all procedures were performed after the height and weight of the students were recorded according to the protocol. Health education was provided for all participants using posters and leaflets. The data were collected via a questionnaire and urine test. The data were analyzed using SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences), and ANOVA and t-tests were used to determine the significant differences between the variables. ResultsA urine investigation was conducted on 237 students; 132 (55.7%) had positive results which showed marked improvement and the prevalence in the school decreased to 3.8% after the intervention. The researcher found strong evidence of a relationship between the prevalence of schistosomiasis before the intervention and availability of water in the home (chi-square = 18.331, df = 1, p value = 000). ANOVA showed strong statistical significance (0.002 and F = 6.564) between the mean score of student age and reasons behind going to the pond. ConclusionThis study concluded that mass chemotherapy and treatment were highly effective when associated with a health program intervention. Mass chemotherapy alone may reduce the prevalence of disease for a short time. RecommendationCommunity-based interventions should be applied in schools with an emphasis on health education programs through the training of schoolteachers on investigations for schistosomiasis, treatment with praziquantel, and the provision of materials (microscopes, reagents, and drugs).

Re-assessing thermal response of schistosomiasis transmission risk: Evidence for a higher thermal optimum than previously predicted.

The geographical range of schistosomiasis is affected by the ecology of schistosome parasites and their obligate host snails, including their response to temperature. Previous models predicted schistosomiasis' thermal optimum at 21.7°C, which is not compatible with the temperature in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) regions where schistosomiasis is hyperendemic. We performed an extensive literature search for empirical data on the effect of temperature on physiological and epidemiological parameters regulating the free-living stages of S. mansoni and S. haematobium and their obligate host snails, i.e., Biomphalaria spp. and Bulinus spp., respectively. We derived nonlinear thermal responses fitted on these data to parameterize a mechanistic, process-based model of schistosomiasis. We then re-cast the basic reproduction number and the prevalence of schistosome infection as functions of temperature. We found that the thermal optima for transmission of S. mansoni and S. haematobium range between 23.1-27.3°C and 23.6-27.9°C (95% CI) respectively. We also found that the thermal optimum shifts toward higher temperatures as the human water contact rate increases with temperature. Our findings align with an extensive dataset of schistosomiasis prevalence in SSA. The refined nonlinear thermal-response model developed here suggests a more suitable current climate and a greater risk of increased transmission with future warming for more than half of the schistosomiasis suitable regions with mean annual temperature below the thermal optimum.

Comparison of the Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP) and the Kato-Katz Techniques in the Diagnosis of &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Schistosoma mansoni&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt; in Burkina Faso

Intestinal schistosomiasis or intestinal bilharzia, mainly caused by &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Schistosoma mansoni&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt;, is one of the most common parasitic diseases in the world, and a neglected tropical disease (NTD). It ranks first among water-borne diseases and is the 2nd most endemic parasitic disease after malaria and according to the World Health Organization (WHO), schistosomiasis is transmitted in more than 78 countries and territories in tropical and subtropical regions, and more than 250 million people are infected, mainly in Africa. Kato Katz (KK) remains the standard technique for diagnosing this disease. A promising new approach, loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP), may be needed in developing countries such as Burkina Faso. Thus, the aim of this study was to compare the LAMP technique and the Kato-Katz technique in the diagnosis of &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Schistosoma mansoni&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt; in Burkina Faso. 52 stool samples were collected from patients in the town of Bobo Dioulasso and examined using the KK technique, which corresponds to microscopy and the LAMP technique, to assess the sensitivity and specificity of this molecular technique. The results showed a prevalence of intestinal schistosomiasis of 8% in the study, and the Kappa coefficient obtained between the 2 techniques was 0.99, roughly equal to 1. The sensitivity and specificity of the LAMP molecular test was 100%.

Chronic schistosomiasis infection and obstetric fistula repair outcomes in Lubango, Angola: A retrospective chart review

AbstractObjectiveTo assess the association between chronic schistosomiasis infection, determined by bladder biopsies, and vesicovaginal (VVF) repair outcomes at an urban hospital in Angola. Other objectives were to quantify the prevalence of chronic schistosomiasis among patients with VVF and to assess agreement between pelvic X‐rays and bladder biopsies for chronic schistosomiasis diagnosis.MethodsIn this retrospective chart review, data were collected on patients who underwent VVF repair between 1 June 2022 and 30 November 2022 including: age, number of previous fistula repairs, Goh classification of fistula, X‐ray and biopsy results, fistula repair outcome, perioperative complications and postoperative incontinence. Age and number of previous repairs were described using means with standard deviations. Goh classification, X‐ray and biopsy results, fistula repair outcome, perioperative complications, and postoperative incontinence were described using frequencies. Parametric and nonparametric tests and Cohen's κ were calculated using R software and Excel.ResultsOf the 76 charts retrieved, 60 met inclusion criteria. The overall fistula repair failure rate was 26.7% (n = 16). There was no difference in the fistula repair failure rate between those with (26.9%) and without (26.5%) evidence of chronic schistosomiasis infection (χ2 = 2.33 e‐31, 95% confidence interval [CI]: −0.30, 0.28). The prevalence of chronic schistosomiasis was 43.3%. There was no agreement between X‐ray and biopsy in diagnosing chronic schistosomiasis infection (Cohen's κ = 0.23, 95% CI: −0.001, 0.47).ConclusionThere was no difference in the chance of fistula repair failure between those with evidence of chronic schistosomiasis infection and those without.

One Health monitoring reveals invasive freshwater snail species, new records, and undescribed parasite diversity in Zimbabwe

BackgroundSnail-borne trematodes afflict humans, livestock, and wildlife. Recognizing their zoonotic potential and possible hybridization, a One Health approach is essential for effective control. Given the dearth of knowledge on African trematodes, this study aimed to map snail and trematode diversity, focusing on (i) characterizing gastropod snail species and their trematode parasites, (ii) determining infection rates of snail species as intermediate hosts for medically, veterinary, and ecologically significant trematodes, and (iii) comparing their diversity across endemic regions.MethodsA cross-sectional study conducted in 2021 in Chiredzi and Wedza districts in Zimbabwe, known for high human schistosomiasis prevalence, involved malacological surveys at 56 sites. Trematode infections in snails were detected through shedding experiments and multiplex rapid diagnostic polymerase chain reactions (RD-PCRs). Morphological and molecular analyses were employed to identify snail and trematode species.ResultsAmong 3209 collected snail specimens, 11 species were identified, including schistosome and fasciolid competent snail species. We report for the first time the invasive exotic snail Tarebia granifera in Zimbabwe, which was highly abundant, mainly in Chiredzi, occurring at 29 out of 35 sites. Shedding experiments on 1303 snails revealed a 2.24% infection rate, with 15 trematode species identified through molecular genotyping. Five species were exclusive to Chiredzi: Bolbophorus sp., Schistosoma mansoni, Schistosoma mattheei, Calicophoron sp., and Uvulifer sp. Eight were exclusive to Wedza, including Trichobilharzia sp., Stephanoprora amurensis, Spirorchid sp., and Echinostoma sp. as well as an unidentified species of the Plagiorchioidea superfamily. One species, Tylodelphys mashonensis, was common to both regions. The RD-PCR screening of 976 non-shedding snails indicated a 35.7% trematode infection rate, including the presence of schistosomes (1.1%) Fasciola nyanzae (0.6%). In Chiredzi, Radix natalensis had the highest trematode infection prevalence (33.3%), while in Wedza, R. natalensis (55.4%) and Bulinus tropicus (53.2%) had the highest infection prevalence.ConclusionsOur xenomonitoring approach unveiled 15 trematode species, including nine new records in Zimbabwe. Schistosoma mansoni persists in the study region despite six mass deworming rounds. The high snail and parasite diversity, including the presence of exotic snail species that can impact endemic species and biomedically important trematodes, underscores the need for increased monitoring.Graphical

Soil-Transmitted Helminthiasis, Intestinal Schistosomiasis and Malaria Co-Infections among Children in Rural Communities Around Rwasave and Cyarwa Valleys

Background: Soil-transmitted helminthiasis, schistosomiasis and malaria remain a threat in developing countries, especially to people living in rural areas near large water bodies, valleys or swamps whose daily life activities revolve around those areas. In addition, these parasites affect different groups of people especially those in contact with their breeding sites including children mostly due to their developing immunity compared to that of old people. Methodology: This cross-sectional study was conducted in rural communities near the Rwasave and Cyarwa valleys, with 124 school-aged children participating. Stool samples were tested for the presence of STH eggs and intestinal Schistosoma parasites using the Kato Katz technique, and thick blood smears were made to aid in the identification of plasmodium species in blood. The threshold intensity of infection on STHs and Schistosoma sp. was estimated by counting their eggs microscopically, which aided in classifying infections as light, moderate, or heavy according to WHO standards. Furthermore, Plasmodium species were identified by the presence of schizonts, trophozoites, or gametocytes on Giemsa-stained thick blood smears, and parasitic density was calculated as a result. Results: In this study, the highest prevalence of soil transmitted helminthiasis was 12.7% in Cyarwa valley compared to 12.5% in Rwasave valley. The highest prevalence of Schistosomiasis was 3.2% in Cyarwa valley compared to 1.3% in Rwasave valley. Prevalence of malaria in Cyarwa valley was 3.3% in 63 children. Where children infected were only males falling in 5-8 age group. Conclusion: Results showed high prevalence of soil transmitted helminthiasis which was 12.7% in Cyarwa compared to 12.5% in Rwasave valley especially in children aged 5-8, this due to poor sanitation (P&lt;0.001) that have assessed. Surprisingly, Cyarwa valley is located nearby town. Whereas malaria, intestinal schistosomiasis was low and there were not significantly associated with their risk factors with p-values 0.4, 0.092 respectively which can show that, preventive measures that have been established by government of Rwanda have positive impacts. Furthermore, there was a low prevalence of soil transmitted helminthiasis, intestinal schistosomiasis and malaria co-infection. Keywords: soil transmitted helminthiasis, intestinal schistosomiasis, malaria.

Prevalence of Schistosomiasis among Pupils of Umunya Central School, Oyi Local Government, Anambra State, Nigeria

Background: Schistosomiasis is a disease of medical importance caused by the parasitic worm Schistosoma haematobium. It is responsible for morbidities such as blood and protein deficiency in those infected. The study on the prevalence of urogenital schistosomiasis and contributory risk factors was carried out among pupils of Umunya Central School, Oyi Local Government, Anambra State between November and December, 2021. Methods: The children were between the ages of 4-15 years. One hundred and twenty respondents of children were selected and their urine samples were collected and examined for the presence of haematuria and proteinuria using a combi 9 strip before the filtration technique was used to detect the presence of the parasite. Pupils data were collected using Google Forms researcher’s questionnaire. Results: Out of the 120 (62 males and 58 females) children examined, a total prevalence of 0% was gotten. The pupils had a good source of water although a few of them (8%) still drank from the rivers in the community which could predispose them to the disease. Knowledge of the disease was very little among the children and many of them visited the rivers for different activities (78%). Conclusion: Health education of the children and residents for improved perception of the behavioural and socio-economic activities associated with the disease will help reduce the burden of disease transmission.

Low schistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminthiasis prevalence and intensities in selected communities in Davao de Oro and Davao del Norte, the Philippines: A setting for interruption of transmission?

Parasitic neglected tropical diseases, such as schistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminthiasis (STH), remain as significant public health concerns in developing countries such as the Philippines. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and intensity of schistosomiasis and STH among school-age children (SAC) and adults in two co-endemic provinces in Mindanao in southern Philippines as part of monitoring of national control programs. Stool samples were collected, processed using Kato-Katz technique, and examined microscopically for presence of intestinal helminth ova. A total of 776 SAC and 526 adults participated in the study. Low schistosomiasis prevalence was generally observed in SAC (0.8%) and adults (0.4%). Generally low STH prevalence was reported in both SAC (3.9%) and adults (3.4%). Only three SAC had heavy intensity STH, which was not seen in adults. Results indicate a state of good morbidity control, which may be a result of effective implementation of mass drug administration (MDA) strategy for schistosomiasis, STH, and lymphatic filariasis in the last several years. The low prevalence and intensities of infections may also be partly attributed to the low diagnostic sensitivity of Kato-Katz technique in detecting low intensity intestinal helminth infections. While results of this study also indicate similarly low levels of both these infections in previous studies, sustaining high MDA coverage rates and addressing remaining challenges related to intensified case finding and treatment, improvements in safe water, sanitation, and hygiene, veterinary public health, and vector ecology and management will be necessary to interrupt transmission in these areas.

Barriers and misconceptions hindering reduction of intestinal schistosomiasis in Mbita Sub-County, Western Kenya

BackgroundCommunity and individual participation are crucial for the success of schistosomiasis control. The World Health Organization (WHO) has highlighted the importance of enhanced sanitation, health education, and Mass Drug Administration (MDA) in the fight against schistosomiasis. These approaches rely on the knowledge and practices of the community to be successful; however, where the community knowledge is low and inappropriate, it hinders intervention efforts. Hence, it is essential to identify barriers and misconceptions related to awareness of schistosomiasis, sources of infection, mode of transmission, symptoms, and control measures.MethodsThis was a mixed-method cross-sectional study involving 1200 pre-school children randomly selected and examined for Schistosoma mansoni infection using the Kato-Katz technique. All parents/guardians of selected children were enrolled for a pre-tested questionnaire survey, while 42 were engaged in focus group discussions (FGDs). The level of knowledge and awareness among parents/guardians about schistosomiasis was evaluated in relation to the infection status of their pre-school children.ResultsAmong pre-school children, the prevalence of intestinal schistosomiasis was 45.1% (95% CI 41.7–48.5). A majority of parents/guardians (85.5%) had heard about schistosomiasis, and this awareness was associated with the participant’s level of education (OR = 0.16, 95% CI 0.08, 0.34). In addition, a positive association was observed between higher educational attainment and knowledge of the causative agent (OR = 0.69, 95% CI 0.49, 0.96). Low education level was significantly associated with limited knowledge of transmission through lake water contact (OR = 0.71, 95% CI 0.52, 0.97) and infection from the lake (OR = 0.33, 95% CI 0.19, 0.57). Notably, parents/guardians who have heard of schistosomiasis could not recognize symptoms of S. mansoni infection, such as abdominal pain (91.8%, 815/888) and blood in the stool (85.1%, 756/888). Surprisingly, 49.8% (442/888) incorrectly identified hematuria (blood in urine), a key sign of S. haematobium, but not S. mansoni, in an endemic area for S. mansoni infection. The majority (82.6%, 734/888) of parents/guardians were unaware that dams are potential infection sites, despite 53.9% (479/888) of their pre-school-aged children testing positive for schistosome infection.ConclusionsDespite the high level of awareness of intestinal schistosomiasis in the study area, we identified a low level of knowledge regarding its causes, modes of transmission, signs and symptoms and potential sites of transmission within the community. This study emphasizes the need for targeted educational interventions to address the misconceptions and knowledge gaps surrounding intestinal schistosomiasis through tailored community-based programs.

Prevalence of urinary schistosomiasis among school children in Giwa and Markafi Local Government Areas, Kaduna State, Nigeria

Urinary schistosomiasis is a neglected tropical disease that is affecting the health of many children, especially in Nigeria. Awareness about schistosomiasis in some communities is low; hence more children undertake activities in unsafe bodies of water. This study determined the prevalence, socio-demography, risk factors and symptoms of urinary schistosomiasis among school children in Giwa and Makarfi LGAs. A total of 200 school children were enrolled in this study and each of them submitted 10 mL urine sample. Each urine sample was concentrated by centrifugation and the sediment was examined using a light compound microscope. Data collected were analyzed using IBM SPSS Version 23 at 95% confidence interval. Overall prevalence of urinary schistosomiasis in this study was 19(9.5%). Spatial prevalence was 10.0% and 9.0% in Giwa and Makarfi LGAs respectively. There was no infection among the females (0.0%), but 13.5% of infection occurred among the males (P=0.003, OR =1.156). School children within the age-group of 18–19 years old had highest infection of 20.0%, followed by 12.1% and 5.6% among those within age-groups of 14-15 and 12-13 years old respectively. The infection was more occurring among children in junior secondary school (10.4%) than among those in senior secondary school (7.7%). Significant risk factors were irrigation farming, swimming, fishing and washing of clothes in rivers (P&lt;0.05, OR &gt;1). Significant symptoms of the disease among them included painful urination and terminal haematuria (P&lt;0.05, OR &gt;1). However, infected individuals mostly encountered frequent urination and abdominal pains (OR&gt;1). Urinary schistosomiasis prevails in the study area. It is important to create widespread awareness and treatment intervention.

Determination of prevalence, risk factors and symptoms of urinary schistosomiasis among school children in Kaduna South Local Government Area, Kaduna State

Schistosomiasis negatively impacts children’s health. Children expose themselves daily to schistosome infections due to lack of awareness and knowledge about the disease or the danger of infested water bodies. This study was aimed at determining the prevalence, risk factors and symptoms of urinary schistosomiasis among school children in Kaduna South Local Government Area, Kaduna State, Nigeria. Four hundred (400) consented school children submitted 10mL urine each and responded to structured questionnaires. Sediment of each urine sample was examined by light microscopy, after centrifugation at 3000 rpm for 5 min. Overall prevalence of urinary schistosomiasis was 4.5%. Both male and female children were equally infected (4.5% each). Older children between 13-17 years old were more infected (5.0%) and more at risk (OR = 2.982) than younger children (8-12 years old) who had 1.7% of the infection. No infection was recorded among children who had awareness about the disease. Water-based activities that served as significant risk factors for the infection included swimming in river (8.7%, P=0.016, OR= 3.064), fishing (12.2%, P=0.005, OR=3.942) and washing of clothes in river (17.4%, P=0.002, OR=5.459). Significant symptoms of urinary schistosomiasis identified were frequent urination (12.5%, P=0.023, OR=3.612), abdominal pain (10.0%, P=0.045, OR=2.880), and terminal haematuria (13.6%, P=0.002, OR=4.526). Infected individuals were more at risk of experiencing pains during urination (7.4%, OR=2.047). Unawareness promotes the spread of schistosomiasis among Nigerian children; their continuous exposure to infested water poses a greater risk. Creation of awareness amongst children will help to control their play habits in unsafe water bodies.

The effects of selected neglected tropical diseases on economic performance at the macrolevel in Africa

BackgroundNeglected tropical diseases (NTDs) such as leprosy, lymphatic filariasis (LF), schistosomiasis and onchocerciasis are endemic in several African countries. These diseases can lead to severe pain and permanent disability, which can negatively affect the economic productivity of the affected person(s), and hence resulting into low economic performance at the macrolevel. Nonetheless, empirical evidence of the effects of these NTDs on economic performance at the macrolevel is sparse. This study therefore investigates the effects of the above-mentioned NTDs on economic performance at the macrolevel in Africa.MethodsThe study employs a panel design with data comprising 24 to 45 African countries depending on the NTD in question, over the period, 2002 to 2019. Gross domestic product (GDP) is used as the proxy for economic performance (Dependent variable) and the prevalence of the above-mentioned NTDs are used as the main independent variables. The random effects (RE), fixed effects (FE) and the instrumental variable fixed effects (IVFE) panel data regressions are used as estimation techniques.ResultsWe find that, an increase in the prevalence of the selected NTDs is associated with a fall in economic performance in the selected African countries, irrespective of the estimation technique used. Specifically, using the IVFE regression estimates, we find that a percentage increase in the prevalence of leprosy, LF, schistosomiasis and onchocerciasis is associated with a reduction in economic performance by 0.43%, 0.24%, 0.28% and 0.36% respectively, at either 1% or 5% level of significance.ConclusionThe findings highlight the need to increase attention and bolster integrated efforts or measures towards tackling these diseases in order to curb their deleterious effects on economic performance. Such measures can include effective mass drug administration (MDA), enhancing access to basic drinking water and sanitation among others.