DISTRIBUTION OF INTESTINAL HELMINTHIC INFECTIONS AMONG RESIDENTS OF TAKUM LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, TARABA STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

Intestinal helminths infections are a pervasive global health issue, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions where inadequate sanitation, poverty, and limited access to healthcare services create an environment conducive to the spread. The aim of this study was to determine the distribution of intestinal helminthic infections among residents of Takum Local Government Area, Taraba State, Nigeria. A total of 300 stool samples were collected randomly from the residents of Takum and were analyzed using standard methods. Structured questionnaire was used to collect information on the demography of the respondents including sex, age, education level and occupation. Data obtained was analyzed using both descriptive (frequencies and percentages) and inferential statistics (chi-square) to determine the association between infection and the demographic characteristics of the respondents. The baseline analysis showed that males had higher infections than females for Ascaris lumbricoides (6.4% and 7.3%), Hookworm (32.6% and 26.8%), and Schistosoma mansoni (4.6% and 1.2%) respectively. However, there was no statistical significance (χ² = 3.233, p = 0.357). There was significant association between infection and age (χ² = 20.809, p = 0.014), with the highest prevalence observed among individuals under 18 years (8.8% for A. lumbricoides, 36.8% for Hookworm, 5.6% for S. mansoni). Education level did not show a significant association (χ² = 5.388, p = 0.799). Similarly, Occupation also showed no significant association (χ² = 6.636, p = 0.084). The findings from this study underscore the need for targeted public health interventions, including regular deworming campaigns, health education on proper hygiene and drug use, and improved access to effective anthelmintics. Community-based treatment strategies supervised by healthcare professionals, especially among school-aged children and vulnerable populations, should be prioritized.