STOOLS ANALYSIS FOR PARASITIC WORMS (ENTERIC WORM) AMONG THE PRIMARY SCHOOL PUPILS IN NOBLE ACADEMY OMBI 1, LAFIA NASARAWA STATE

ABSTRACT This study titled “Stool Analysis for Parasitic Worms (Enteric Worm) Among the Primary School Pupils in Noble Academy, Ombi 1, Lafia, Nasarawa State” is aimed to conduct a stool analysis to determine the prevalence of parasitic worms among primary school pupils in Noble Academy Ombi 1. The objectives of the study were to determine how common these infections are, identify the specific types of parasitic worms found in the stool samples, and explore whether factors like socioeconomic status and hygiene practices influence infection rates. A total of 150 pupils, aged 6 to 11, participated in the study, and their stool samples were examined using three diagnostic methods: direct smear microscopy, formalin-ether sedimentation, and the Kato-Katz technique. The findings revealed a high infection rate, with 64.7% of the samples testing positive for parasitic worms, and a slightly higher prevalence in females (36%) compared to males (28.7%). These results align with similar studies conducted in tropical regions, indicating that parasitic worm infections remain a widespread issue in such environments. The high rate of infection highlights the urgent need for interventions, including improved hygiene, regular deworming, and better sanitation facilities in schools. The study recommends that schools implement health education programs to promote proper hygiene practices, ensure access to clean drinking water, and conduct routine deworming initiatives to reduce infection rates. Additionally, further research is needed to identify specific parasite species and transmission routes, which will help in designing more targeted and effective interventions. KEYWORDS: Parasitic worms, stool analysis, primary school pupils, hygiene practices, prevalence, deworming, sanitation.