Human intestinal parasitism, potable water availability and methods of sewage disposal among nomadic Fulanis in Kuraje rural settlement of Zamfara state

摘要

Objective:To ascertain the level of intestinal parasites vis-à-vis the quality of housing and water supply, and sanitary conditions among the people of Kuraje village in Zamfara state. Methods:The study was cross sectional in nature. Individual households were selected using systematic random sampling methods and pre-tested questionnaires were administered to all the members of each household. Stool samples were collected and processed using standard laboratory procedures. Housing conditions, sources of water and sanitary conditions of the households were also inspected. Results were analysed using Epi Info 2006 model. Results:The prevalence of intestinal parasites was 67.0%(347/519). 72.3%(251/347), 17.0%(59/347), and 10.7%(37/347) had one, two and three or more parasites, respectively. The associated factors with intestinal parasites were poor housing and sanitary conditions, lack of potable water and illiteracy. The commonest parasites encountered were hookworm (22.0%), Ascaris lumbricoides (18.5%), and Strongyloides stercoralis (15.6%) while the least common was Enterobius vermicularis (1.6%). Others were Giardia lamblia (5.7%), Hymenolepsis nana (5.0%), Trichuris trichiura (8.8%), Entamoeba histolytica (14.4%) and Schistosoma mansoni (8.4%). Conclusions:The infection rate of intestinal parasites in Kuraje village is high. More efforts should be intensified towards improvement in sanitary and housing standards, supply of potable water and institution of a more comprehensive literacy programme for the people of the community.