A Qualitative Study on the Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices Regarding Schistosomiasis Prevention Among Primary School Children in the Riverine Communities of Osun State, Nigeria

TL;DR

This study explores how primary school children in Nigeria understand and handle schistosomiasis prevention, revealing gaps in knowledge and sanitation practices.

Contribution

The study provides new insights into children's knowledge gaps and behaviors related to schistosomiasis prevention in a specific Nigerian region.

Findings

Only 27.5% of children accurately identified schistosomiasis symptoms and prevention methods.

75.9% of children were willing to seek medical care and follow treatment for prevention.

Most children used pit latrines or open defecation for sewage disposal.

Abstract

Background

Despite the implementation of severe rounds of preventive chemotherapy, schistosomiasis is a disease of concern affecting millions of people, especially in underdeveloped and developing countries including Nigeria. This study aimed to use a qualitative method to have an in-depth understanding of the gaps in school children's knowledge, attitude, and practices regarding schistosomiasis.

Methods

This study employed a qualitative method to obtain information from schoolchildren in riverine villages in Osun State, Nigeria. The study was conducted among 138 children in Primary 4-6 across 12 schools selected using the purposive sampling technique. A total of 24 focus group discussions were conducted by public health professionals and doctors. The recorded data was transcribed and analyzed using ATLAS.ti software (ATLAS.ti Scientific Software Development GmbH, Berlin, Germany).

Results

A few respondents (27.5%) accurately identified the symptoms, risk factors, and preventive measures of schistosomiasis. A sizable portion (75.9%) expressed readiness to seek care early from professionals within the hospital settings, undergo medical tests to confirm the diagnosis, and adhere to prescribed drugs and other preventive measures appropriately as a primary preventive measure to ensure clearance of organism. A significant portion (78.8%) of the participants indicated the use of pit latrines as the most common method of sewage disposal. Outside the house, the most commonly mentioned is defecating in the bush, reflecting open defecation practices.

Conclusions

This study highlights the gaps in knowledge, attitude, and practices regarding schistosomiasis among children in the riverine communities of Osun State. To reduce the disease, we need targeted health education, better sanitation, and easier access to healthcare. These steps can help protect children and control the disease in the long term.