Geographical Distribution of Soil Transmitted Helminths and Plasmodium falciparum Co- Infections among School Children in Bugesera District, Rwanda

Abstract

Aims: Soil Transmitted Helminths and Plasmodium infections are ubiquitous within the tropical and subtropical regions.  However, the extent and consequences of Helminthic and Plasmodium infections and co-infections - geographical distributions are not fully understood. This study aimed determining the geographical distribution of these parasites. Study Design: Cross Sectional Survey. Place and Duration of Study: The survey was conducted in Bugesera District, Eastern Rwanda, between May and December 2020. Methodology: The survey was conducted among children between ages 5 and 18 years, across 21 randomly selected primary schools. Stool samples were collected and screened for soil transmitted helminths using Kato-Katz, while finger-prick blood samples were examined under the microscope to determine Plasmodium infection. Results: P. falciparum was common throughout the study area, with highest prevalence in provinces of   Nyiragiseke (22.78%) and Shami (18.99%).  The geographical distribution of STH was variably dominated by A.  lumbricoides.  The co-infection exhibited geographical variation consistent with the A. lumbricoides prevalence. Conclusion: The un-proportional distribution of and higher prevalence of P. falciparum in the provinces of Nyiragiseke (22.78%) and Shami (18.99%) calls for the review of the control methods, strategies and mechanisms to address the unique conditions and activities in each province. The variably dominant A.  lumbricoides- Plasmodium co-infection calls for targeted control strategies and mechanisms for these parasites since this association has been attributed to severe malaria.