Socio-economic, educational and environmental health correlates of intestinal worm infestation of pupils attending a public primary school in Rivers State, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Worm infestation is a public health problem of global concern, which causes devastating health challenges in school age children. Infestation causes health, educational and developmental challenges in these children. Objectives: The objective of the study is to evaluate the socio-economic, educational and environmental hygiene factors which may influence intestinal worm infestation of pupils in a public primary school. Materials and method: The study is a descriptive cross–sectional study, conducted among primary school pupils aged 6-12 years in government primary school, Ubima, Rivers State. A multi stage sampling technique was used to select one functional public primary school from one of the 23 local government areas in the state. Two hundred and eighteen eligible respondents were chosen from the list of all pupils in the school using systematic sampling technique. Data was obtained using pretested interviewer administered questionnaires. Also stool sample were collected from pupils to analyze presence or absence of ova of helminths. Results were analyzed using statistical package for social sciences version 22.0. Association between categorical data was done using chi-square test with statistical significance set at p< 0.05. Ethical clearance was obtained from the ethical review committee of Rivers State Hospital management board. Result: Results revealed statistically significant association between personal hygiene, (p<0.05) environmental health status of pupils (p<0.05) and socio-economic/educational attainment of parents of pupils(p<0.05) with intestinal worm infestation. Conclusion: Worm infestations affects pupils of school age and are significantly influenced by personal, environmental hygiene of pupils and socio-economic/educational attainment of parents.