Epidemiology of enterobiasis among undergraduate students of ignatius ajuru university of education, Rumuolumeni, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria

Abstract

This research on the epidemiology of enterobiasis among undergraduate students of Ignatius Ajuru University of Education (IAUE), Rumuolumeni, Port Harcourt, Rivers state, Nigeria was conducted over eight weeks from June to August 2022. Faecal samples were collected from a total of 46 undergraduate students (14 males and 32 females) and examined in the biology laboratory at Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, using the formol ether sedimentation and zinc sulphate floatation methods for parasite detection. 23.9% samples were positive for Enterobius vermicularis, while 35(76.1%) were not found with the parasite. The result also showed that 9(28.1%) females were infected more than males 2(14.3%). Chi-square statistics showed that the relationship between sex and infection is not significant (p>0.05). The four hostels sampled showed the following infection rates which are outlined in descending order as follows: Hostel E - 37.5%(6/16), Hostel D - 14.3%(2/14), Hostel G - 20%(2/10) with Stella Hostel showing the least infection rate of 10%(1/6). The relationship between hostels and infection is statistically non-significant (p=0.458). Finally, the risk factor assessment shows that 35(76.1%) wash their hands before eating any type of food, 36(78.3%) wash their hands after using toilet facilities, 20(43.5%) suck their fingers sometimes, 20(43.5%) trim their fingernails with their teeth, 38(82.6%) bath at least 2 times daily while only 21(45.6%) wash their beddings every week. This study has provided insight into the Enterobiasis infection rate among undergraduate students in the institution. It is therefore recommended that school authorities should make provision for intensive periodic deworming exercises and also create awareness of the health implications of this enterobiasis (pinworm) infection to promote sound public health.