Prevalence and Risk Factors For Intestinal Nematodes Infections among Primary School Children at Kigeme Refugee Camp, Southern Province, Rwanda

Abstract

Background Intestinal parasitic infections are common in camps of internally displaced people or refugees. Although, much has been done in Rwanda for their control in the general population, little is known about the prevalence among children in refugees’ camps. Objective The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of intestinal nematodes infections and associated risk factors among primary school children at Kigeme refugee camp, southern province of Rwanda in 2021. Methods A cross sectional study was conducted; a total number of 383 stool samples were collected and examined using formal ether concentration technique. Results Approximately, one out of two participants (48.0%) were found to be infected with at least one intestinal nematode. Ascaris lumbricoides was found to be most prevalent (81%), followed by Trichirus trichiura (7.1%) and hookworm (3.8%). Parental illiteracy was identified as a risk factor, while knowledge on transmission roots of intestinal nematodes was seen as a protective factor. Conclusion Family members and parental education in particular is key as far as prevention of intestinal nematodes infections is concerned. Enhancement of public health education about hygiene and sanitation as well as regular mass drug administration could be important in fighting against intestinal parasitic infections.