Influence of Water Physicochemical Properties on the Distribution of Schistosomiasis Vectors in Selected Communities of Jos, Nigeria
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.82127/szdm1160Abstract
Background: Schistosomiasis is a neglected tropical disease caused by parasitic worms. It remains a significant public health concern in Nigeria, particularly in communities with limited access to clean water and sanitation. This study investigated the influence of water physicochemical properties on the distribution of Schistosomiasis vectors in three selected communities – Jenta Adamu, Tudun Wada and Student Village Russau, within Jos North Local Government Area, Plateau State, Nigeria.
Objectives: The study assessed the physicochemical parameters of water bodies and identified the distribution of schistosomiasis vectors in the study area.
Methods: A cross-sectional research design was employed, with water and snail samples collected from selected freshwater bodies. Chi square and ANOVA were tested at p < 0.05 level of significance to determine association with variables.
Results: The results recorded variations in water quality across different parameters, with Jenta Adamu; temperature, pH, COD, DO and CO2 (26.80±0.42 oC, 7.80±0.05, 578.6±6.00 mg/L, 8.04 mg/L and 13.4±0.75 mg/L). While Tudun Wada recorded temperature, pH, salinity and DO (21.76±0.21 oC, 6.94±0.07 mg/L, 175.4±2.09 mg/L and 5.56±0.63 mg/L), with Student Village Russau having temperature, pH, salinity and DO (29.12±0.08 oC, 7.18±0.09 mg/L, 277.8±4.47 mg/L and 5.52±0.71 mg/L). Two snail species were identified, Bulinus globosus (53.41%) and Biomphalaria pfeifferi (46.59%). Bulinus globosus dominated in Jenta Adamu (63.83%), while Biomphalaria pfeifferi was more prevalent in Student Village Russau, (60.98%).
Conclusion: The study concludes that the coexistence of both snail species in the study area poses a dual risk for urogenital and intestinal schistosomiasis. These findings contribute to understanding the ecological dynamics of schistosomiasis vectors and inform strategies for disease control in endemic regions.
Downloads
