Incidence of Urinary Schistosomiasis Amongst Primary School Pupils in Kudenda and Kakuri within Kaduna Metropolis

Abstract

Schistosomiasis is one of the most prevalent human parasitic diseases worldwide, with significant socio-economic and public health implications. Second only to malaria in terms of disease burden, schistosomiasis is caused by parasitic flatworms of the genus Schistosoma. Urinary schistosomiasis, caused specifically by Schistosoma haematobium. This study was conducted to determine the incidence of urinary schistosomiasis among primary school pupils in Kudenda and Kakuri communities within the Kaduna South and Chikun Local Government Areas of Kaduna Metropolis. A total of 150 urine samples were randomly collected from pupils in two selected primary schools. The samples were analyzed microscopically using the standard centrifugation technique to detect the presence of S. haematobium eggs. Additionally, structured questionnaires were distributed to obtain data on the pupils' demographic characteristics, frequency of contact with natural water bodies, awareness of schistosomiasis, and reported symptoms. The results revealed an overall prevalence of 18% among the study population. Statistical analysis at a significance level of p ≤ 0.05 showed that infection rates varied significantly across gender and age groups. Male pupils had a notably higher infection rate (10%) compared to females (1.3%), suggesting greater exposure due to outdoor recreational activities such as swimming and fishing. Age-specific analysis further showed that pupils aged 11–15 years had a significantly higher prevalence (10.6%) compared to those aged 5–10 years (7.2%). These findings underscore the persistent endemicity of urinary schistosomiasis in the Kaduna Metropolis and highlight the urgent need for a multi-faceted response. Recommended interventions include regular school-based deworming programs, health education initiatives and environmental management. Equally important is the improvement of water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) infrastructure in affected communities and schools to mitigate further spread. In conclusion, the study provides evidence of a moderate but significant burden of urinary schistosomiasis among school-aged children in Kudenda and Kakuri. It calls for integrated and sustained public health interventions to reduce transmission, protect vulnerable populations, and promote long-term disease control in endemic areas.