Thesis Abstract

Intestinal schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease caused by the trematode Schistosoma mansoni. It is a major public health concern in many tropical and subtropical regions, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where it affects millions of people. The lifecycle of S. mansoni involves freshwater snails as intermediate hosts and humans as definitive hosts. Infection occurs when cercariae, the larval stage of the parasite, penetrate the skin of individuals in contact with contaminated water sources. The clinical manifestations of intestinal schistosomiasis can vary depending on the intensity and duration of infection. Common symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhea, bloody stool, and hepatosplenomegaly. Chronic infections can lead to severe complications such as portal hypertension, liver fibrosis, and increased risk of hepatocellular carcinoma. The diagnosis of intestinal schistosomiasis is primarily based on the detection of S. mansoni eggs in stool samples using microscopy techniques. Prevention and control strategies for intestinal schistosomiasis primarily focus on interrupting the lifecycle of the parasite and reducing human exposure to contaminated water sources. Mass drug administration (MDA) with praziquantel, the recommended drug for treatment of schistosomiasis, is a key component of control programs. MDA aims to reduce the prevalence and intensity of infection in endemic communities, thereby decreasing the burden of disease. In addition to MDA, other preventive measures include improving access to safe water and sanitation facilities, promoting hygiene practices, and snail control interventions. These integrated approaches target both the human and environmental factors that contribute to the transmission of S. mansoni. Health education and community engagement are essential components of successful control programs, as they help raise awareness about the disease and promote sustainable behavioral changes. Despite the progress made in the control of intestinal schistosomiasis, challenges remain in achieving sustainable elimination of the disease. These challenges include limited access to treatment in remote and marginalized communities, inadequate surveillance systems, and the emergence of drug resistance. Addressing these challenges requires continued investment in research, capacity building, and collaboration among different sectors and stakeholders. Overall, the prevention and control of intestinal schistosomiasis require a comprehensive and multisectoral approach that integrates medical interventions with community engagement, environmental management, and sustainable development strategies. By implementing evidence-based interventions and addressing the underlying social determinants of the disease, it is possible to reduce the burden of intestinal schistosomiasis and improve the health and well-being of affected populations.

Thesis Overview

INTRODUCTION

DESCRIPTION OF SCHISTOMIASIS

Schistosomiasis, also known as bilharzia, snail fever, and Katayama fever, is a disease caused by parasiticflatworms of the Schistosomatype. The urinary tract or the intestines may be infected. Signs and symptoms may include abdominal pain, diarrhea,(Akpinar, 2012). Bloody stool, or blood in the urine. In those who have been infected a long time, liver damage, kidney failure, infertility, or bladder cancer may occur. In children, it may cause poor growth and learning difficulty(Antounet al., 2005).

The disease is spread by contact with fresh water contaminated with the parasites. These parasites are released from infected freshwater snails. The disease is especially common among children in developing countries as they are more likely to play in contaminated water(Akpinar, 2012). Other high risk groups include farmers, fishermen, and people using unclean water during daily living. It belongs to the group of helminth infections. Diagnosis is by finding eggs of the parasite in a person’s urine or stool. It can also be confirmed by finding antibodies against the disease in the blood(Duke, 2002).

Methods to prevent the disease include improving access to clean water and reducing the number of snails.(Duke,.2002) In areas where the disease is common, the medication praziquantel may be given once a year to the entire group. This is done to decrease the number of people infected and, consequently, the spread of the disease. Praziquantel is also the treatment recommended by the World Health Organization(WHO) for those who are known to be infected(Akpinar, 2012)..

(Antounet al., 2005) Schistosomiasis affected almost 210 million people worldwide as of 2012. An estimated 12,000 to 200,000 people die from it each year. The disease is most commonly found in Africa, as well as Asia and South America. Around 700 million people, in more than 70 countries, live in areas where the disease is common. In tropical countries, schistosomiasis is second only to malaria among parasitic diseases with the greatest economic impact. Schistosomiasis is listed as a neglected tropical disease(Akpinar, 2012).

1.1     STUDY AREA

This study was carried out at START RIGHT MODEL SCHOOL Sango Ota Ogun State Ado Odo Ota Local Government Area. Schistosomiasis is noticed at this area of Ogun State Nigeria and some neighboring areas including Ado-Odo, Owode, and e.t.c. This is as a result of some factor like;

• Poor drainage system
• Poor waste disposal
• Over flooding etc.