Distribution Pattern of Soil-transmitted Helminths and Common Practices Enhancing Transmission in Ow

Geohelminth infection is a major public health issue around the world, especially in Africa. This research was carried out in Owena, Southwestern Nigeria, to look into the distribution pattern of soil-transmitted helminths and common practises for improving transmission. Using the Modified Cobbs decanting and sieving technique, 200 soil samples were collected from five different sites in the Owena community and tested for the presence and absence of geohelminth eggs and larvae. A well-designed questionnaire was used to explore various activities and practises that could improve parasite transmission in the environment. The findings found that 61 percent of the 200 soil samples tested positive for at least one parasite. Ascaris lumbricoides, Trichiuris trichiura, hookworms, and Strongyloides stercoralis are among the parasites found. Hookworm contamination is the most common, accounting for 55.8% of all cases. Furthermore, the results revealed that 167 (38.5%) of the respondents do not have adequate waste disposal facilities, and as a result, 29 (14.5%) of the respondents dispose of their waste in the river, while 165 (82.5%) dispose of their waste materials in any available location, such as bushes and backyards. Similarly, only 115 people (57.5 percent) have access to toilets, while 82 people (42.5 percent) do not. When it comes to the type of toilet used, 30 (15%) use a water closet toilet, 84 (42%) use a pit toilet, and 86 (43%) dispose of their faeces in any available means, such as bushes and backyards. This finding indicates that geohelminth is still prevalent and poses a significant health risk to the Owena community's residents. As a result, effective management strategies like health education should be promoted.

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