Risk factors and spatial distribution of urinary schistomiasis among school going children in Ng'ombe township of Lusaka

Abstract

Background: Schistosomiasis is a major public health problem and an estimated 779 million people worldwide, are at risk of schistosomiasis. In Zambia, close to 2 million people are infected with the disease with prevalence attainment as high as 90% in some communities. Therefore, this study sought to determine the prevalence and risk factors and to predict spatial distribution of urinary schistosomiasis among school going children in Ng’ombe Township. Methods: A cross sectional study using random systematic disproportionate sampling was conducted at two schools. A structured questionnaire was administered to 354 children to collect information used to determine the factors associated with Schistosomiasis. Urine specimens were examined using urine filtration method to determine the prevalence of Schistosomiasis. GIS was used to enable spatial location of sample population in relation to the area of residence and infection sites. Results: Overall, prevalence of Schistosomiasis from both schools was 35.6%. Ng’ombe Primary School had a higher prevalence (37.6%) compared to New Ng’ombe Primary School (33.3%). The members of age group 10 -12 years were two times more likely to be infected with Schistosomiasis (OR 2.18, 95% CI 1.10 – 4.40: P=0.028) compared to age group 6 -9 years while age group 13 – 15 years were four times more likely to be infected with Schistosomiasis (OR 3.85, 95% CI 1.80 – 8.40: P=0.001) compared to age group 6 -9 years. Children in the age range 16 – 17 years (OR 0.70, 95% CI 0.16 – 3.14: p=0.642) were 30% less likely to be infected with urinary Schistosomiasis compared to age group 6 -9 years. Children who had water contact sometimes reflected 76% reduction in the risk of schistosomiasis infection compared to those who had water contact most of the times (OR 0.24, 95% CI 0.07 – 0.78: P=0.017). Children who had no water contact reflected 94% reduction (OR 0.06, 95% CI 0.02 – 0.21: p=0.001) in the risk compared to those who had water contact most of the time. Distance from area of residence also showed that those who lived closer to the stream had more chances of being in contact with infested water.