Prevalence and treatment methods of Helminthiasis in Nsukka Zone, Enugu State, Nigeria

Abstract

Data were obtained on the incidence and treatment methods of soil-transmitted helminthes infestation in Nsukka zone, through structured  written questionnaire. The information was obtained from individuals in  eleven communities selected randomly in the zone after official permission. The data were compared to the egg concentration levels of  the helminthes obtained from faecal samples of the interviewed  persons. Hookworm and ascariasis were the only soil transmitted helminthes infestation observed in the persons. People who said they had little or no knowledge of the causes of the infestation were more  affected (59.9%). People who resort to herbal treatment in the area had more egg concentration in the faeces: 147.3 ± 152.6 egg per gram  of faeces (epg) for hookworm infestation and 339.0 ± 257.8 epg for ascariasis. The egg concentration was higher in faeces of the people living far from medical centers: 136.8 ± 148.5 epg for hookworm  infestation and 326.3 ± 253.5 epg for ascariasis. Knowledge of treatment methods affects the rate of infestation.

Keywords: knowledge, helminthiasis, Nsukka zone, treatment methods, faecal samples

Journal of Pharmaceutical and Allied Sciences, Vol. 7 No. 2 (2010)