Abstract

Aim/Background: Urinary schistosomiasis remains a public-health challenge in marginalized communities lacking safe water and sanitation. This study assessed the prevalence, intensity and associated risk factors of Schistosoma haematobium infection among children in a nomadic settlement in Malakun, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria.
Methods: A cross-sectional study of 57 children aged 3–15 years was conducted. Early morning urine samples were examined by urine filtration and microscopy for S. haematobium eggs; infection intensity was classified as low (≤50 eggs/10 mL), moderate (51–100 eggs/10 mL) or high (>100 eggs/10 mL). A structured questionnaire captured socio-demographic data and water-contact behaviours. Data were analysed using chi-square tests and binary logistic regression; adjusted odds ratios (aOR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were reported. Significance was set at p < 0.05.
Results: Overall prevalence was 22.8% (13/57). No significant differences were observed across age groups (p = 0.657) or sexes (p = 0.605). Major water sources were ponds (42.1%), wells (33.3%), and streams (24.6%). Infection intensity distribution was low 57.9% (33/57), moderate 28.1% (16/57), and high 14.0% (8/57). Older children (13–15 years) showed higher proportions of moderate-to-high intensity. Children aged 3–7 years had lower odds of moderate-to-heavy infection compared to the reference group (aOR = 21.28; 95% CI: 2.71–11.10).
Conclusion: Urinary schistosomiasis persists in this nomadic community and is associated with frequent contact with natural water bodies and low disease awareness. We recommend targeted health education, improved WASH interventions, and periodic mass drug administration adapted to nomadic populations.

Key words: Prevalence, risk factors, urinary schistosomiasis, nomadic children, Ogun State, Nigeria.