Status of Soil Transmitted Helminths Infection Among School-going Children in Momba, Mbeya

Abstract

This study conducted cross-sectional and retrospective studies to investigate the burden of intestinal helminths among school-going children in Momba. Direct wet mount and Kato-Katz thick smears techniques were used to determine the prevalence and intensity of intestinal parasites, respectively. Out of 359 stool samples analysed, 28% were positive for intestinal parasites. Hookworm infections attributed to 10% of total infection, Ascaris lumbricoides 6%, Giardia lamblia 7%, and Entamoeba histolytica 5%. The prevalence of intestinal infection decreased with increasing age (p < 0.5). Hookworm was the most prevalent STH infection among children (p = 0.048). There was an association between taking ant-helminthic drugs and the absence of helminth infection in children (OR = 1.9, p < 0.05). No relationship existed between parents’ education level and the presence of STH infection among children (p > 0.05). Overall, children in Momba harboured low intensity helminths infection. The mean intensity of hookworm and ascaris infection decreased with age, with children between 5 to 14 years of age bearing higher burden (All p < 0.05). Retrospective study showed high prevalence of hookworm and Schistosoma haematobium among children below 7 years (p < 0.05). The paper recommends improved coverage of preventive chemotherapy and health education on proper hygiene and sanitation in the study area.