THE IMPACT OF URINARY SCHISTOSOMIASIS ON JUNIOR SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS IN AGASSA

Prevalence of urinary schistosomiasis among 136 students of junior secondary school Agassa in Okene Local Government Area of Kogi State was assessed. In total 18 students was infected representing 13.2% prevalence. Highest prevalence (21.5%) was recorded among J.S.S. 1 boys and the least (6.3%) was recorded among J.S.S. 3 girls. Generally prevalence of haematobium infection was higher (17.1%) in males compared to 7.4% in females. Prevalence by age showed that the highest (19.6%) was recorded in age group 10 – 12 years and the least (4.7%) in age group 16 – 18 years. There is need for students and the entire community around Ekuku River to be educated on the health implications of urinary schistosomiasis. This will reduce water contact activities in Ekuku River