PREVALENCE OF SOIL TRANSMITTED HELMINTHES AMONG IRRIGATION FARMERS IN JOS EAST, PLATEAU STATE

Abstract

Soil-transmitted helminthes (STHs) remain a major public health concern among agricultural workers due to constant exposure to contaminated soil and water. This cross-sectional study assessed the prevalence and risk factors of STH infections among irrigation farmers in Jos East, Plateau State, Nigeria. A total of 163 stool samples were examined using direct wet mount and formalin-ether concentration techniques. Results showed an overall prevalence of (34.9%), with Ascaris lumbricoides (13.5%) and hookworm (10.4%) being the most common species, while Trichuris trichiura (1.8%) was least frequent. Infections were more common among adult farmers (18-47), with higher prevalence observed in Federe and Fobur districts. Significant risk factors included the use of pit toilets, reliance on rivers/streams for irrigation, barefoot farming, use of animal manure, farming before sunrise, and lack of regular deworming. The findings highlight the occupational vulnerability of irrigation farmers to STH infections and underscore the need for targeted interventions, including improved sanitation, provision of safe water, protective farming practices, and inclusion of adult farmers in mass deworming programs.