Prevalence of <i>Shistosoma haemotobuim</i> Infestation in Children Aged 4 to 15 Years in the Locality of Matta Barrage of Cameroon

Abstract

Schistosomiasis is an acute and chronic parasitosis caused by worms (trematodes) of the genus Schistosoma. Infection in humans occurs when parasite larvae, released by freshwater gastropods, enter the skin through contact with infested water. Schistosomiasis is most prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions, particularly in poorer communities with no access to drinking water or adequate sanitation. Lack of hygiene and contact with contaminated water make children particularly vulnerable to infection. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of Shistosoma haemotobuim infestation in children aged 0-4 to 15 years in the locality of Matta-barrage. Microscopy using the sedimentation technique was used to identify Shistosoma haematobuim eggs in collected urine samples. Observation with a binocular magnifying glass was used to assess the cercarial emission rate. Of 155 urine samples analyzed, 69 were positive, representing a prevalence of 44.52%. The rate of Shistosoma haemotobuim cercariae was 21.03%. The prevalence of urogenital schistosomiasis is very high in this locality of Matta Barrage, as is the rate of cercarial transmission. A deworming campaign with Praziquantel is more than necessary.