Prevalence and Associated Factor of <i>Schistosoma Haematobium</i> Among Primary School Children in Dubti City District, Afar, Northeast Ethiopia, 2022. “A Cross‐Sectional Study”

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background and Aims Human schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease causing organ damage and developmental delays in children. Updated data on its distribution is vital for targeted interventions. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and associated factors of Schistosoma haematobium infection among school‐age children in Dubti city district, Northeast Ethiopia. Methods A school‐based cross‐sectional study was conducted from December 2021 to January 2022. A total of 416 school children were recruited using systematic random sampling. Data on socio‐demographic and environmental factors were collected via a structured questionnaire. Urine samples were analyzed using sedimentation and filtration techniques. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics version 23, employing descriptive statistics and both univariate and multivariate logistic regression to identify associated factors. Results Of the 405 samples analyzed, the prevalence of S. haematobium was 60.2% (95% CI: 55.41%, 64.90%). The prevalence of Schistosoma haematobium using two diagnostic techniques, with the filtration method 244 (60.2%) showing significantly higher sensitivity than the sedimentation method 161 (39.8%). Multivariable analysis revealed that sex (AOR = 0.568), residence (AOR = 0.490), swimming habits (AOR = 2.079), washing clothes near drainage (AOR = 2.68), and the source of water for domestic purposes (AOR = 3.311) were statistically significant factors associated with infection. Conclusion The study found a high prevalence of S. haematobium among school children. To combat this, interventions should focus on providing safe water, conducting mass drug administration in schools, and implementing health education programs.