Prevalence of Intestinal Parasites and Schistosoma mansoni and Associated Factors among Fishermen at Lake Tana, Northwest Ethiopia

Abstract

Background. Intestinal parasites and Schistosoma mansoni infections adversely affect the health of humans in the world especially in sub-Saharan African countries including Ethiopia. Fishermen who spend most of their time in water bodies are supposed to be at high risk of schistosomiasis and other water-born parasites. However, the magnitude of these parasitic infections and their determinant factors are not well addressed. Methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted at Lake Tana among 388 fishermen from March to May 2021. Questionnaire data was collected through face to face interview. Stool sample from each participant was processed by the Kato-Katz and spontaneous tube sedimentation techniques. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26. Results. One hundred sixty four (42.3%) and 88 (22.7%) participants were infected by intestinal parasites and Schistosoma mansoni, respectively. One hundred twenty two (31.4%) and 42 (10.8%) participants were infected by soil-transmitted helminths and intestinal protozoa, respectively. Attending only primary school (AOR=2.02, p=0.014) or being illiterate (AOR=2.54, p=0.004) and not washing hands before meal (AOR=2.23, p=0.007) were significantly associated with intestinal parasitic infections. Illiterate educational status (AOR=2.37, p=0.022), fishing by bargee (AOR=2.43, p=0.005), fishing ≥4 days per week (AOR=2.27, p=0.029), swimming habit (AOR=3.03, p=0.030), and participation in irrigation (AOR=3.09, p≤0.001) predispose fishermen to S. mansoni infection. Conclusion. Intestinal parasites and S. mansoni infections are highly prevalent among fishermen at Lake Tana basin. Low education level and frequent water contact predispose fishermen for intestinal parasites and S. mansoni. Therefore, health education to fishermen on intestinal parasites and S. mansoni infection and regular deworming should be advocated.