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In Tanzania, Schistosoma mansoni is of great public health importance. Understanding the prevalence and infection intensity is
important for targeted, evidence-based control strategies.This study aimed at studying the prevalence, intensity, and risk factors of
S.mansoni among schoolchildren in the study area. A cross-sectional study was conducted in Busanga and Kibuyi villages. Sampled
513 schoolchildren provided stool specimens which were examined using kato-katz method. Pretested questionnaire was used to
collect sociodemographic data and associated risk factors.The prevalence of S.mansoni infection was 84.01%, with geometric mean
egg intensity of 167.13 (95% CI: 147.19–189.79) eggs per gramof stool (epg).Other parasites detected were Ascaris lumbricoides (1.4%)
and hookworms (1.4%).The geometric mean infection intensity in Busanga and Kibuyi were 203.70 (95% CI: 169.67–244.56) and
135.98 (95% CI: 114.33–161.73) epg, respectively. Light, moderate, and heavy infection intensities were 34.11%, 39.91%, and 25.99%,
respectively. Village of residence, parent’s level of education, toilet use, and treatment history were predictors of infection. The
high prevalence and infection intensity in this study were associated with village, parent’s level of education, inconsistent toilet use,
and treatment history. To control the disease among at-risk groups, these factors need to be considered in designing integrated
schistosomiasis control interventions. |
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