Community-based prevalence of intestinal schistosomiasis and associated risk factors in two endemic districts of Taiz governorate, Yemen

Abstract

Abstract Schistosomiasis is still a major public health problem despite launching preventive chemotherapy campaigns through yearly treatment of school-age children since 2008. Objectives: to identify prevalence, severity, and risk factors of intestinal schistosomiasis in Al-Shmaytin& Al-Mwaset districts-Taiz governorate's-Yemen's. Methods: A cross sectional study using structured questionnaires to collect data: age, gender, marital status, education, income, location, occupation, behavioral features, duration of contact with water, clinical background, schistosomiasis awareness, and the results of stool investigation. SPSS version 24 used for statistical analysis. Results: S. mansoni prevalence was (14.3%), a higher prevalence in Al-Mwaset 22.0% compared to Al-Shmaytin 6.9%. Most infections were of high intensity (43.3%). The overall geometric mean egg count was 241.5 EPG. AOR for: district 2.7 (95% CI: 0.94– 7.59), (p=0.06); receiving Praziquantel® 0.7 (95% CI: 0.28–1.63), (p=0.38); having dam near home 1.2 (95% CI: 0.43–3.55), (p=0.69); age 0.3 (95% CI: 0.11–1.03), (P= 0.05); having pool/ponds near home 4.2 (95% CI: 0.99–17.90), (p=0.05); defecate near water sources 2.6 (95% CI: 1.09– 6.33), (p=0.03), blood with stool 4.7 (95% CI: 0.08– 0.59), (p=0.03). Conclusions: The residents in study areas were at moderate risk of developing intestinal schistosomiasis. The infection was more prevalent in Al-Mwaset, ages 6-18, living near pool/ponds or dam, defecate near water sources (has the main role), having blood with stool and did not receive Praziquantel®. The heavy intensity of infection was noted among: most of infected community, male, age of more than 18 years. It was recommended that, Praziquantel® be regularly given to communities.