SOIL TRANSMITTED GEOHELMINTH: A CASE STUDY OF COMMUNITY PRIMARY SCHOOL, OBA AKOKO, ONDO STATE
Abstract
This study assessed parasite ova/larvae distribution in community primary school, Oba Akoko, Ondo State and the associated physio-chemical parameters. Twenty (20) soil samples were collected from each cardinal points at one meter apart from each spot with the depth of 2-3cm, making a total of eighty (80) soil samples collected in community primary school Oba Akoko and examination was done using standard procedures. The prevalence of geohelminths infections revealed the following distribution. Hookworm ova 276(345%), hookworm larvae 55(68.75%), Ascari lumbricoides 112(140%), Trichuris trichiura 199(248.75%), Strongloides stercoralis 14(17.5%). Physio-Chemical parameters revealed soil temperature ranging from 28.03⁰C to 28.73⁰C. The highest electrical conductivity was discovered in the classroom (266.95±30.93) and the highest total dissolved solids was observed in the classroom ( 133.30±15.69 ppm) and the highest pH was recorded in the playground (7.03). Correlation analyses carried out on the recovered parasites with physicochemical parameters revealed that hookworm ova showed a positive correlation with temperature, pH, electrical conductivity, and total dissolved solids, and Trichuris trichiura had a significant positive correlation with temperature, pH, electrical conductivity, and total dissolved solids. Ascaris lumbricoides and Strongyloides stercoralis also showed varying correlations with the physicochemical parameters.The findings underscore the significance of soil Physio-Chemical factors in geohelminths epidemiology. Mass chemotherapy, enhanced health education programs, improved sanitation infrastructure and strengthen personal hygiene practices are recommended in this study.
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