UROGENITAL SCHISTOSOMIASIS AMONG PRIMARY SCHOOL PUPILS IN AMAGUNZE, ENUGU STATE, SOUTHEAST NIGERIA

Urogenital schistosomiasis has consistently provoked attention due to its consequences on the infected population. The prevalence and infection status in endemic rural areas needs constant updating. Therefore, this study investigated the current prevalence of urogenital schistosomiasis among school pupils in a schistosomiasis endemic community. Urine samples were microscopically examined for eggs of Schistosoma haematobium while reagent strips were used to determined hematuria. Over all population prevalence was 14.18% (n=19). Prevalence was age and sex dependent. Prevalence of infection was significantly (P<0.05) higher in pupils within the age group of 10-14 years with 10.45%(14) while those within 5-9 years old had a prevalence of 3.73%. Male pupils were more (P<0.05) infected (8.9%, n=12) than females (5.22%, n=7). Cases of hematuria were not significantly different (P>0.05) between sexes though males had 2.23% while females had 1.49%. Prevalence of schistosomiasis in Amagunze increased when compared to previous reports. Renewed education and treatment are needed to control and eliminate the infection.