Urinary Schistosomiasis in Pupils of Almajiri Schools in Zangon-Shanu, Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria

Schistosomiasis is a significant public health concern due to its widespread prevalence and the associated risks to the well-being of affected populations. This study investigates the prevalence and determinants of urinary schistosomiasis among pupils in Zangon-Shanu Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria. Two hundred pupils between the ages of 8-17 years in four Almajiri schools were selected randomly in four Almajiri schools, from June 2021 to January 2022, in the study area. A urine sample was collected from each pupil and analyzed for Schistosoma using the sedimentation technique. A questionnaire was also administered to obtain demographic data. Results revealed that out of the 200 pupils examined, 26 (13.0%) were positive for schistosomiasis, with the highest prevalence in Malam Aminu school (18.3%) and the lowest in Malam Jafar school (5.0%). There was a higher prevalence of schistosomiasis among pupils using well water (54.0%) and borehole water (31.0%) compared to those using tap water (10.0%) or pond water (0.0%). Furthermore, 90% of pupils who swim were infected, and 53.0% of the infected pupils used open field toilet facilities, while 47% used pit latrines. The study provides valuable insights into the prevalence of urinary schistosomiasis and its associated risk factors among pupils in the area. It, therefore, underscores the importance of water sources and contact activities in transmitting the disease. Hence, there is a need for targeted interventions, such as health education and improved access to safe water and adequate sanitation facilities, to reduce the burden of schistosomiasis among school-going children in the area.