Prevalence of Entamoeba histolytica and Hook Worm Infection in Two Communities of Kwande Local Government Area of Benue State Nigeria

Abstract

Entamoeba histolytica and hookworm are among the 10 most prevalent intestinal parasitic infections worldwide. They contribute to low productivity, malnutrition, miscarriages, reduced lifespan and sometimes death. A study on the prevalence of these two diseases was carried out in Kwande Local Government Area of Benue State, Nigeria. Faecal samples were collected and examined for E. histolytica and hookworm infections from 325 subjects after the structured questionnaire was administered and filled appropriately. The stool samples were analysed using the direct wet smear in normal saline and sedimentation techniques while information on age, sex, occupation and location-related prevalence were obtained from the questionnaires. The results were statistically analysed using SPSS version 20 and mini tab 17th edition. On the whole, a prevalence of 25.5% and 6.2% were recorded for E. histolytica and Hookworm respectively. Children between ages 1-10 years had the highest incidence of amoebiasis (35.5%), while persons aged 41-50 years recorded highest prevalence for hookworm infection (12.2%) The infections were statistically significant concerning sex and occupation (p < 0.05). Females were less infected as compared to the males with a prevalence of 20.5% and 35.8% for E. histolytica and 1.9% and 15% for hookworm infection respectively (P<0.05). Farmers had the highest prevalence of 40.3% for E. histolytica and 16.8% for hookworm infection while traders recorded the lowest infection rates of 12.7% and 0.00% respectively (P<0.05). The prevalence of E. histolytica was higher in Mbawer, a farming community (29.6%) while a higher prevalence of hookworm infection was recorded in Adikpo Township (7%), the values, however, were not significantly different (p>0.05). Poor hygiene practices, lack of awareness and basic social amenities, as well as water sources in the study area, contributed to the spread of the infections. This study recommends awareness creation, public enlightenment programs on environmental sanitation and personal hygiene.