HEALTH RISKS AND EDUCATIONAL IMPACT OF URINARY SCHISTOSOMIASIS AMONG SCHOOLCHILDREN IN AGASSA

The prevalence of urinary schistosomiasis was assessed among 136 junior secondary school students in Agassa, Okene Local Government Area, Kogi State. Out of the total students examined, 18 were infected, yielding an overall prevalence of 13.2%. The highest prevalence (21.5%) was observed among J.S.S. 1 boys, while the lowest (6.3%) occurred among J.S.S. 3 girls. Males showed a higher infection rate (17.1%) compared to females (7.4%). Age-wise prevalence was highest (19.6%) in the 10–12 years group and lowest (4.7%) among students aged 16–18 years. These findings highlight the significant burden of urinary schistosomiasis in this community, especially among younger males. There is an urgent need to educate students and the surrounding community near Ekuku River on the health risks associated with urinary schistosomiasis. Such awareness could reduce risky water contact activities and contribute to disease control.