Global Journal of Biology, Agriculture & Health Sciences

Abstract

Factors Characterising High Prevalence Rates of Urinary Schistosomiasis in Mufumbwe District, North Western Province of Zambia

Chansa Chomba & Stephen Mutale

This study investigated prevalence of Urinary Schistosomiasis in Mufumbwe district of Zambia. It identified risk factors responsible and suggested possible ameliorating measures. Objectives were to; 1) determine prevalence rates, 2) identify and document risk factors responsible for the infection and spread of the disease, 3) determine affected gender and age groups among primary school children, and 4) identify indigenous control measures used and their efficacy. Questionnaires and field observations were used on pupils and teachers. Blood samples were collected from pupils and examined for Schistosoma haematobium ova. Results showed a high prevalence rate of urinary bilharzia (56.7%) in male age groups of 11-15 years with prevalence of 60.7%. Five water contact activities were responsible for transmission. Remedies used to treat bilharzia included; Mitragyna stipulosa, Ricinus communis, Steganotaenia araliacea, Capsicum roots and Mangifera indica, but these were not effective, and more research is required to determine their efficacy

Published Date: 2014-03-04;