Environmental Factors on Onchocerciasis Transmission in Ezinihitte Mbasie, Imo State, Nigeria

Onchocerciasis, also known as river blindness, is a significant public health concern in Nigeria. Environmental factors play a crucial role in its transmission. This study investigates environmental factors and onchocerciasis transmission in Ezinihitte Mbaise Local Government Area, Imo State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 350 participants in 10 communities. Socio-demographic data, medical history, and environmental factors (vegetation, proximity to water bodies, altitude, and land use) were collected. Onchocerciasis infection was diagnosed using skin snip biopsies. The results shows that total prevalence of onchocerciasis was 34.3%, Umuhu had the highest prevalence of 42.9%, male had the highest prevalence of 35%. Multivariate analysis revealed significant associations between onchocerciasis infection and- Proximity to water bodies (OR=2.5, 95% CI: 1.4-4.4)- Dense vegetation (OR=3.1, 95% CI: 1.75.6)- Low altitude (OR=2.2, 95% CI: 1.2-3.9)- Agricultural land use (OR=1.9, 95% CI: 1.1-3.3). Environmental factors significantly influence onchocerciasis transmission in Ezinihitte Mbaise. Targeted interventions, such as vector control and environmental modification, can complement strategies to reduce onchocerciasis transmission and informed interventions to reduce the burden of this disease in the region.