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This study examined the effect of occupational hazards on the technical efficiencies of oil palm processors in Edo State. A multistage sampling procedure was used in selecting 210 oil palm processors in the study area. Data were analyzed using percentages, frequencies, Occupational Hazard Indices and Stochastic Frontier Production Analysis (SFPA). Results revealed that 79%, 90.5% and 80.5% of the processors were male, married and educated respectively. Also, the mean age, processing experience and household size were 42 years, 15 years and 7 persons respectively. The most prevalent occupational hazards experienced were smoke irritation (100%), presser injury (94.3%) and spikelet injury (83.8%). The occupational hazards indices computed were, lost time rate, incidence rate and severity rate with values of 15.85, 23.77 and 2.4 respectively. SFPA revealed that the mean technical efficiency of the oil palm processors was 0.75. Furthermore, palm fruits (β = 0.662, p

Soil Transmitted Helminths (STHs) are Neglected Tropical Diseases of global public health importance. This study evaluated the efficacy of albendazole (ALB) amongst primary school children aged 6 – 16 years in STH-endemic communities in Ogun State, Nigeria. Demographic characteristics were obtained and stool samples were collected and analysed by Kato-Katz at baseline and 15 and 21 days post-treatment. All study participants were treated with a single ALB 400 mg tablet. A total of 282 participants were screened at baseline, of which 151 were found to be excreting STH (51.4%) of which A. lumbricoides was the most prevalent STH (n = 137, 48.6%), followed by hookworm (n = 60 children, 21.3%) and T. trichiura (n = 3; 1.1%). The prevalence across the four schools varied from 31.3% to 73.9% for A. lumbricoides, from 6.8% to 56.3% for hookworm, and from 0.0% and 2.2% for T. trichiura infections. Of the 151 children excreting any STH infection at baseline, 131 (86.8%) provided a stool sample 15 and 21 days after treatment. The mean fecal egg counts across these complete cases at baseline was 5,096 (± 13,735) eggs per gram (EPG) for A. lumbricoides, 2,202 (±7,849) for hookworms and 288 (±375) for T. trichiura. Fifteen days after drug administration the therapeutic efficacy, measured as the reduction in mean fecal egg count (FEC) following drug administration (ERR), was 99.7% (95CI: 99.4-99.9) for A. lumbricoides and 69.2% (95CI: 28.7-92.8) for hookworms. The hookworm ERR at day 14 was reduced due to the continued high egg output of one highly infected individual. One week later, 21 days following drug administration, ERR for hookworm also reached satisfactory levels (99.4% (95CI: 98.7-99.8)). This study highlights that ALB still shows satisfactory efficacy to Ascaris and hookworm infections in Ogun State, Nigeria.

Urinary schistosomiasis is considered a major public health parasitic disease in African communities. Prior to this study, Nsugbe community was not considered endemic for the disease and as such was not involved in Praziquantel-Preventive Chemotherapy (PC). Longitudinal study of 281 consented pupils aged 5-16 years was carried out with aim of determining the status of urinary schistosomiasis. Urinalysis laboratory test strip, urine filtration technique and syndromic diagnosis were used for the confirmation of the presence of haematuria in urine samples, identification of Schistosoma haematobium ova and the confirmation of female genital schistosomiasis (FGS), respectively. Risk factors for urinary schistosomiasis infection were determined using pre-tested structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using Minitab 17 software and intensity of infection categorized following World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations. Of the 281 pupils, 117 (42%) were males and 164 (58%) were females with mean age of 9 years. At baseline, an overall prevalence of 0.4% (1/281) which was of light intensity was established. At follow-up, an overall prevalence of 2.1% (6/281) which was of both light (16.7%) and heavy infection (83.3%) was established. The result of the clinical examination showed eggs of S. haematobium in and around the vaginal area indicating FGS of a female pupil aged 12 years. This was treated. Identified risk factors for S. haematobium infection in the community include water-contact activities, ignorance, source of water supply among others. The study revealed the need for an all inclusive mass administration of Praziquantel-PC in the study community for effective control and possible elimination.

Schistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminthiasis (STH) are public health problems in communities which lack basic social amenities with poor hygienic conditions. Studies were carried out to determine the prevalence and effect of schistosomes and soil-transmitted helminths infection on labour input on rice production in 9 rice-growing communities of Ogun State. Parasitological examinations of urine and faecal samples, and structured questionnaires were conducted on 243 consented individuals from May 2009 to March 2010. The results showed an overall prevalence of 17% for Ascaris lumbricoides, 12% for hookworms, 2% for Trichuris trichiura, 1% for Schistosoma haematobium and 1% for Schistosoma mansoni. A. lumbricoides and hookworms were more prevalent in Agbajege (25%), and varied in the other 8 communities. T. trichiura was prevalent in three communities, Agbajege (5%), Akodu (4.2%), and Moloko-Asipa (4.8 %); S. haematobium was prevalent only in Ayedere (2.6%) and Lufoko (8%), while S. mansoni was prevalent only in Moloko-Asipa (9.5%). Infections among the gender were varied as 26.3 % of males and 33.8 % of females had an overall prevalence of: A. lumbricoides (16.8%), hookworms (11.8%), T. trichiura (1.6%), S. haematobium (1.1%) and S. mansoni (1.1%). On frequency of infection to incapacitation per year, 45% of respondents were incapacitated 1-2 times, 27% 3-4 times and 19% were incapacitated more than 4 times. Understanding the effect of these two diseases will not only improve the health status of residents but also increase their productivity and ensure food security.

Intestinal helminthiasis among pupils is a major impediment to their well-being and development. This 2-year study determined how home-grown school feeding programme (HGSFP) impacted on pupils’ school attendance and created opportunity for more children to assess interventions geared towards the prevention and possible elimination of intestinal helminthiasis. Faecal samples were collected from 1677 consented pupils and examined for helminths using Kato–Katz technique. Pupils were treated with 40 mg Levamisole (anti-helminthic) and re-examined. Structured questionnaires and focus group discussions were used to determine anthropometric indices and risk factors. A 6% prevalence rate which was not significant with respect to sex or age was observed. Helminth parasites observed were Ascaris lumbricoides (4.4%), Trichuris trichiura (0.8%), Hookworm spp. (0.2%), and Taenia spp. (0.5%). Two pupils (1.98%) recorded high intensity of infection (epg) while 98.02% had light infection. Ascaris lumbricoides voided following treatment were 290. The Body Mass Index (BMI) indicated that infected pupils had lower values (14.6317) compared to uninfected pupils (19.2003). The HGSFP significantly improved school attendance by 30%. Lack of knowledge about transmission (P = 0.0004), hand hygiene (P = 0.01) and usage of toilet (P = 0.01) were risk factors observed. Intestinal helminthiasis remains a public health problem among pupils because environmental and behavioural risk factors persist. HGSFP improved school attendance and created opportunity for more inclusive participation of school-aged children for deworming. This has great potential in fast-tracking the elimination of intestinal helminthiasis. The present study consequently advocates the need to sustain HGSFP in schools.

An epidemiological study was conducted in four communities of Yewa-South Local Government Area of Ogun State to determine the prevalence of lymphatic filariasis. Also investigated was the intensity among the study participants. Three hundred and sixty-two participants of both sexes and age ranging from 5 to 85 years were examined. Blood samples for parasitological examination were obtained from consenting participants between 21.00 and 02.00 a.m. The samples were prepared using thick blood smear technique. The data obtained were collected and analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square. The result showed that, from the 362 blood samples examined, 186 were positive with an overall of 51.4%. Microfilaraemic prevalence was not significantly related (p>0.05) by sex category with male having 78 (21.5%) and female 108 (29.3%). However, there was significant (p0.05). The high prevalence observed in these communities could be due to bushy vegetation. There is the important need for increased and consistent treatment with Albendazole and health education in all affected communitiesto reduce prevalence and possible elimination of the parasite. Keywords: Intensity, Lymphatic filariasis, prevalence, Ogun State, Nigeria

This study was carried out across the six geopolitical zones to assess knowledge and health seeking behaviors of Nigerians during the first wave of COVID-19 pandemic lockdown in order to understand the seemingly low cases of COVID-19 in Nigeria. Structured and pretested short questionnaires were employed to obtain information electronically and physically across the six geopolitical zones on socio-demographic characteristics of participants; the knowledge of participants on COVID-19 disease; availability and accessibility to testing and isolation centers in the communities, attitudes and health seeking behaviors. Atotal of 1023 respondents; 705 (68.9%) males and 318 (31.1%) females across the six geopolitical zones in Nigeria participated in this study with 477(46.6%) within the 26-45 years age category, and 6(0.6%) above 66 years. Atotal of 985(96.3%) had heard about COVID-19 at the time of survey while a total of 859(84.0%) of the respondents were aware of the presence of COVID-19 laboratory testing centers. Across the geopolitical zones, majority of the respondents 487(47.6%) claimed there are no routine testing for COVID-19 at their community level, while 303 (29.6%) affirmed otherwise and 216(21.1%) did not know if there were routine testing going on or not. On health seeking behaviors across the country, majority of the respondents 558(54.5%) affirmed they would visit the hospital as the first point of contact if the opportunitypresented itself, 244(23.9%) claimed they would call the NCDC toll line, 2(0.2%) said they would use prayers, while 1(0.1%) respectively claimed they would use home management strategies through visiting chemist stores and checking the internet for solutions. Findings from this study confirm that there is very high awareness of the COVID-19 disease across the country, and limited number of testing centers at the community level. The implications include the possibility of unreported COVID19 cases in the cities as well as in the communities. Keywords: COVID-19, knowledge, health seeking behaviors, community level

The knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) people hold towards a new disease could play a major role in the way they accept measures put in place to curb its spread as Symptoms of COVID-19 are similar to those of other endemic diseases, especially malaria. A cross-sectional KAP/symptomatology online survey was conducted from August –September 2020 across the six geopolitical regions of Nigeria. Data were entered into Google sheets and analyses performed using SPSS version 20. From the 900 respondents, majority 66% were from the North west while 1.2% were from the North east. By sex and age distribution, 69% were males while females were 31%. Age group 15-25 years were more (32.22%) and the least (11%) among respondents were above 65years. Majority of respondents (57.89%), had not experienced symptoms associated with COVID-19 in the past 3 months before this study, however 96.0% of respondents have heard about COVID19 prior the time of survey. Hyperthemia (high fever) 636(70.67%) was accurately recognized by respondents as the most common symptoms. Other highly mentioned symptoms were dry or chesty cough, shortness of breath, catarrh and cough, difficulty in breathing at night, painful breathing, and weakness or tiredness, with significant differences in the responses recorded for the recognition of COVID-19 symptoms across the geopolitical zones (p=0.00). In terms of preventive measures, 771(85.67%) respondents perceive regular hand washing with soap as the major preventive measure for COVID19 infection. This was followed by the usage of face mask 659(73.22%). Also, 794(88.22%) respondents accurately recognized hyperthemia as the most common overlapping symptom between malaria and COVID-19. Other highly mentioned overlapping symptoms were weakness or tiredness 591(65.67%), loss of appetite 504 (56.00%), loss of taste and smell 388(43.11%), and catarrh and cough 313(34.78%). We conclude that awareness of COVID-19 symptoms is fairly high in the country. Awareness strategies should target those with limited access to information on the disease. Keywords: COVID-19, Knowledge, Symptoms, Preventive measures

Background: Urinary schistosomiasisis a debilitating Neglected Tropical Disease (NTD) spreads when infected people urinate close to a water source, contaminating it with the larvae of the parasite, it is associated with lack of access to water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) facilities in rural and semi-urban settlements. This study was conducted to evaluate the availability of WASH facilities and its impact on the prevalence of schistosomia-sis among school-aged children in Ota-Efun (Semi-urban) and Ilie (Rural) communities of Olorunda LGA of Osun State, Nigeria between June and October, 2019 Methods: Two hundred and forty-three participants from the two communities provided urine samples which were examined for Schistosoma haematobium cyst using FLOTAC filtration device and microscopy. Using structured questionnaires, information on the demographic, hygienic practices, and availability of WASH facilities in participants homes was obtained Results: Results showed a cumulative urinary schistosomiasis prevalence of 46% (51/110) in Ilie (rural) compared to 0% (0/133) in Ota Efun (Urban) settlement. In Ilie community, highest prevalence (19.1%) was recorded among participants within the age group (11-13 years) and lowest (7.3%) among age class 14 and above. When compared with the prevalence results, majority (61%) of residents in Ilie lacked access to toilet facilities while 64% were regularly involved in water contact activities such as swimming, bathing and washing of clothes by the river. Conversely, in Ota-Efun, majority (87.2%) of participants had access to pipe-borne water with controlled access to the stream (4.5%) . Conclusion: The results of this study suggest ongoing transmission of schistosomiasis in Ilie community and that frequent water contact activities including swimming and bathing are risk factors for infection .We recommend that WASH facilities should be effectively integrated into ongoing health policy for the control of neglected tropical diseases in Osun State in order to ameliorate the devastating effects of schistosomiasis in the affect-ed communities

Polyparasitism is widespread in many communities in Sub-Saharan Africa. However, there is paucity of data on polyparasitism in infants and preschool-aged children (IPSAC), to inform policy developments. Therefore, a survey of 1110 consented IPSAC was undertaken in Egbedore Local Government Area (LGA), Osun State, Nigeria, to determine the prevalence of polyparasitism in IPSAC in ten randomly selected rural communities. Fresh stool and blood samples were collected and processed for intestinal parasites and malaria infection. Mothers/caregivers were interviewed using a structured questionnaire to obtain demographic data of their IPSAC and to document knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) on parasitic infections. Data obtained through the questionnaire were analyzed using EpiData version 3.1, while parasitological data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (version 20.0). Descriptive statistics were computed for demographic data and association which were tested using bivariate analysis at a 95% confidence level while significance was set at p<0.05. The results showed that 349 (46.29%) were infected with a single parasite. Infants and preschool-aged children infected with double, triple, and quadruple parasites are 268 (35.54%), 122 (16.18%), and 15 (1.99%), respectively. The prevalence of polyparasitism is 405 (53.71%). Although females (54.07%) were more infected than males (45.93%), there was no significant difference (p>0.05) observed. Significantly (p<0.05) more preschool children (65.93%) harbour more infections than the infants do (34.07%). Ara community (14.81%) had the highest cases of polyparasitized IPSAC, but no significant difference (p>0.05) was observed across the communities. Double parasitic infection of Plasmodium falciparum and Ascaris lumbricoides (30.12%) and triple parasitic infection of P. falciparum, A. lumbricoides, and T. trichiura (14.81%) were the most common forms of polyparasitism encountered in the study. This study showed that polyparasitism is a burden in IPSAC and needs further investigation.

National lymphatic filariasis elimination programme (NLFEP) of Federal Ministry of Health sets to provide status of LF in the country before 2020. Borno State, situated in the North East political zone of Nigeria with an estimated population of 4.1million had been enmeshed in insurgency for over a decade. Following an initial mapping between 2008 and 2016 in 16 LGAs out of 27 LGAs, it became imperative that the status of LF in the remaining 11 LGAs of Borno State be ascertained in order to have complete data for planning and policy. Using stratified sampling method, eleven communities were selected from the 11 LGAs namely: Abadam, Ngala, Guzamala, Ngazai, Gubio, Mafa, Jere, Biu, Bayo, Askirin/Uba, and Kwayar Kusar. Blood samples were obtained from consented 990 participants and filarial test strip (FTS) were employed to determine their LF status between November 2017 and February 2018. Of the 990 consented participants only 15 (1.5%) were positive for lymphatic filariasis. Ten cases of hydrocele in men were observed in 4 communities namely Bunari (3), Peta (3), Zaramiramga (2) and Uba (2). Considering the number of positive cases by FTS and hydrocele, result showed that hydrocele accounted for 66.7% of the total positive cases within the positive communities. It is advised that the State health workers should continue to properly educate communities on health programmes including LF preventive measures. Also both Federal Ministry of Health and State Ministry of Health sensitize health partners to start LF treatment and morbidity management in all positive communities to fast track elimination of LF.

This study reports the status of onchocerciasis and lymphatic filariasis (LF) in communities with low endemicity in Ogun-State, Nigeria. The Ov16/Wb123 biplex Rapid Diagnostic Test was used to screen 1,836 participants aged 5 years and above from 8 Local Government Areas (LGAs) from October to December, 2016. Skin snips and night blood were also used for microscopic detection of microfilariae (MF). A cumulative seroprevalence of 9.4% and 0.42% was recorded for onchocerciasis and LF respectively with a co-infection rate of 0.4%. Among the LGAs screened, Ijebu North-East recorded the highest seroprevalence of onchocerciasis (26.4%) and LF (0.9%) while Remo North, Sagamu and Obafemi-Owode LGAs recorded low prevalences ranging from 0.7 - 2.7% for both diseases. No positive result of MF was observed in all the communities screened, even in Ijebu North-East where seroprevalence was high, suggesting historic exposure to onchocerciasis and LF infection which may have occurred over time due to human migration during farming and fishing seasons. Extension of ongoing mass treatment in endemic LGAs is recommended for Ijebu North-East to ensure inclusion in the drive towards the elimination of the diseases in Ogun State.

Background: The need to assess the gaps in knowledge and perception on bioethics among biomedical researchers has become necessary considering the increasing numbers of researchers and research outputs in sub-Saharan Africa. This study, therefore, investigated the knowledge and perceptions of biomedical researchers in Osun State, southwest Nigeria.Methods: Pre-tested semi-structured questionnaires were administered to consenting biomedical researchers during a capacity workshop conducted in November 2020. The questionnaire collected data on the attendee’s demography, knowledge, awareness and perception on bioethics and ethical approvals for research. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics in SPSS. 20.0 software and expressed as frequencies and percentages. Associations between professional status of participants were performed using chi-square statistics, and confidence interval was set as 95%. However, qualitative data were obtained using open-ended questionnaires and analysed thematically.Results: A total of 153 biomedical researchers across 33 academic and research institutions, comprising 58% males, and 42% females participated in this study. The age of the participants ranged from 20 to 60 years. Majority of the participants (60.8%) hold academic positions and about one-third of the population were graduate students (30.1%). Awareness on bioethics was high (91.5%), and more common in schools (61.4%), with majority of the participants (77.1%) describing it as a field that addresses the social and legal issues arising from medicine and life sciences (pConclusion: The study has revealed poor perception among participants and suggests the prioritization of bioethics capacity enhancement workshops to improve knowledge and perceptions of biomedical researchers. In addition, more detailed studies across institutions in Nigeria should be carried out to assess, monitor and reinforce knowledge gained by biomedical researchers.

Background The impact of single-dose mass drug administration (MDA) of ivermectin for onchocerciasis on mosquito populations was investigated in Ogun State, Nigeria. Methods Indoor and outdoor collection of mosquitoes was carried out in two intervention (IC) and two control communities (CC) at three different periods: pre-MDA (baseline), 2–3 days after MDA and 13–14 days after MDA. The density and parity rate of female Anopheles and Culex mosquitoes were determined and compared. Environmental and climatic data of study locations were obtained to perform generalized linear model analysis. Results A total of 1399 female mosquitoes were collected, including 1227 Anopheles and 172 Culex mosquitoes. There was a similar magnitude of reduction in the indoor density of Anopheles by 29% in the IC and CC 2–3 days post-MDA but the reduction in indoor parity rate was significantly higher (p = 0.021) in the IC, reducing by more than 50%. In the IC, observation of a significant reduction at 2–3 days post-MDA was consistent for both the indoor density (1.43 to 1.02) and indoor parity rate (95.35% to 44.26%) of Anopheles mosquitoes. The indoor parity rate of Anopheles remained significantly reduced (75.86%) 13–14 post-MDA. On the other hand, the indoor density of Culex increased from 0.07 to 0.10 at 2–3 days post-MDA while the indoor parity rate of Culex did not change. The outdoor density of Anopheles in the IC increased (p = 0.394) from 0.58 to 0.90 at 2–3 days post-MDA; a similar observation was consistent for the outdoor density (2.83 to 3.90) and outdoor parity rate (70.59% to 97.44%) of Culex, while the outdoor parity rate of Anopheles reduced from 85.71 to 66.67% at 2–3 days post-MDA. A generalized linear model showed that ivermectin MDA significantly caused a reduction in both the indoor density (p p = 0.003) of Anopheles in the IC. Conclusion Ivermectin MDA resulted in the reduction of both the survival and density of Anopheles mosquitoes. This has strong implications for malaria transmission, which depends strongly on vector survival. Graphical abstract

Background: This serological study conducted between March and July 2015 investigated the status of onchocerciasis in Ogun State, Nigeria after a decade of mass drug administration (MDA) with ivermectin. Baseline information from the rapid epidemiological mapping of onchocerciasis (REMO) prior to MDA had indicated that Ogun State was meso-endemic to onchocerciasis. Following years of treatment with ivermectin, it has become important to investigate the current status of the disease using more sensitive diagnostic methods.Methods: The study was conducted in 32 communities in eight onchocerciasis-endemic local government areas (LGAs). Using the Ov16 rapid diagnostic test (Ov16 RDT), finger-prick whole blood was obtained from 3 895 consented participants from age five and above. Skin snips were obtained from a subset of 481 corresponding participants as the majority of community members did not consent to skin snipping.Results: Study revealed a cumulative seroprevalence of 9.3% (CI 9.29–9.31%) by RDT and 17.3% (CI 16.73–18.34%) microfilaridermia prevalence by the skin snip subset. Seroprevalence among children between the ages of five and nine was 2.9% (CI 1.74–3.53%) across all LGAs. A community microfilaria load (CMFL) between 0 and 1.21 MF/skin snip was recorded in the different communities studied. Among the studied LGAs, children in Odeda LGA recorded the highest seroprevalence by RDT (14.9%) followed by Abeokuta North (5.1%), Abeokuta South (4.8%) and Imeko-Afon (0.6%), while Ewekoro, Ifo, Obafemi-Owode and Yewa North LGAs recorded zero prevalence.Conclusion: It appears that the elimination of onchocerciasis in some LGAs is possible considering the lack of new infection among children and the hypo-endemicity among the adult population. However, the microfilaria prevalence observed among adults is of concern as it may imply that mass treatment has not been effective. Increased therapeutic coverage is advised to fully maximise the potential of ivermectin treatment to achieve the disease elimination.

Background This study reports knowledge of onchocerciasis and surrounding factors from the perspective of community members, Community drug distributors and health workers in eight endemic LGAs of Ogun State, Nigeria. Methods Using structured questionnaires and Focus Group Discussion, a total of 417 community members, 37 health workers and 42 CDDs across 16 communities participated in the study. Results Majority (70.7%) of participants knew the disease by its local name, "Inarun". Community members (62%) identified severe itching as a symptom of the disease while (35.9%) (17.6%) and (9.8%) of participants associated bites of black-flies, physical-exertion on farm and allergies to peanuts as the cause of the disease. Majority (62.2%) of health workers reported the insufficiency of drug-storage facilities at community-health centres. Drug distributors also decried the paucity of funds to facilitate wide therapeutic-coverage. Compliance with drug use was affected by adverse reaction by (4%) Community members, pregnancy (9%) and inability to swallow pills (11.6%). Conclusion To improve onchocerciasis control in Ogun State, public-health-education regarding the disease aetiology needs to be improved. Also, treatment rounds need to be increased to accommodate members who unwillingly missed treatment. Finally, government provision of transport logistics to CDDs for ease of logistics is very important.

Objective: This study compared the prevalence of intestinal helminths in Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) intervention and non-intervention communities in Abeokuta, Nigeria. Methods: Stool samples were collected from 225 respondents in a study carried out between July and November, 2014. Stool samples were examined for presence of helminths using Formol-Ether concentration method. Data collected from stool samples were analyzed using SPSS for Windows (version 16). Results: Results showed that, at the intervention community, 88 out of 113 respondents were infected with at least one helminth infection while at non-intervention community, 80 out of 112 respondents were infected. This result revealed overall helminth prevalence of 78% at Mawuko and 71% at Isolu. In both intervention (Mawuko) and non-intervention (Isolu) communities, hookworm was the most prevalent helminth observed (21% and 18%, respectively) followed by Ascaris lumbricoides (13% and 13%, respectively), Taenia sp. (4% and 3%, respectively) and Trichostrongylus sp. (1% and 3%, respectively). Cases of single infections of Trichuris trichiura, Strongyloides stercoralis and Hymenolepsis nana were observed only at the non-intervention community. However, S. stercoralis occurred in the multiple infections observed at the intervention community. Significantly more (p

Provision of water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) resources has been advocated as necessary add-on strategy for sustainable control of soil-transmitted helminthiasis (STH) alongside annual mass drug administration (MDA) of albendazole to endemic communities. This study investigated the burden of STH and status of WASH resources in eight rural communities in Aiyedaade LGA, Osun State, Nigeria. Four of the communities were supported with improved water and hygiene resources (Category A), and another four supported only with improved water resources (Category B). Two hundred and sixteen (216) fresh stool samples were collected from consenting community members and screened for Ascaris lumbricoides, Hookworm and Trichuris trichiura infections using ether concentration method. The status and condition of WASH resources were determined using questionnaire and physical observation. An overall prevalence of 35.2% was observed for any STH infection. Species’ prevalence of Ascaris lumbricoides, Hookworm and Trichuris trichiura prevalence was 33.8%, 22.7%, and 0.5% respectively. Intensity of STH infection was significantly higher in Category A communities than in Category B communities. The prevalence of STH in Category A communities was higher (42.0%) than that in Category B communities (30.1%). There were significant differences (p = 0.000) in STH infections between the two categories. The status of improved water supply was not significantly different (p = 0.3153) in the two categories. Knowledge, attitude, and practices about STH, its transmission and control were low in both categories of communities. These results imply that current implementation of WASH which tends to focus on resource distribution, equity, and coverage, is unlikely to impact on STH transmission and control. Therefore, it is necessary for WASH providers to consider STH transmission control in their planning and implementation of WASH intervention for STH endemic communities.

A cytotaxonomic study was carried out to determine the species composition and dynamics of Simulium damnosum sensu lato in Oyan River, an onchocerciasis mesoendemic area in southwest Nigeria. Simulium larvae were collected fortnightly from different attachments between March and November 2012 fixed in Carnoy's solution for laboratory identification using cytotaxonomic keys. A total of 255 Simulium larvae were obtained and identified from their polytene chromosomes. Simulium soubrense Beffa (56.5 %) and Simulium damnosum sensu stricto (43.5 %) were the two cytospecies observed. No new inversions were found in the larvae. Statistical analysis revealed a significant difference (P

Background Schistosomiasis and Soil-transmitted helminthiasis cause considerable morbidity and mortality in developing countries, especially among children. To this end it, a cross-sectional survey to determine the pattern of Schistosomiasis and Soil-transmitted helminthiasis co-infection was undertaken among primary school pupils in Oduma Community in Enugu State, Nigeria. Methods Fresh urine and stool samples were collected from pupils. The urine and stool samples were examined using sedimentation and Kat-Katz techniques respectively. Results Of the 236 pupils examined, 137 (58.1%) were found positive for at least one helminth infection. Ascaris lumbricoides was the most prevalent soil-transmitted helminth (STH), with a prevalence rate of 40.3%, followed by Trichuris trichiura (15.3%) and hookworm (8.9%). Infection with Schistosoma haematobium was detected in 13.6% of the pupils while Schistosoma mansoni infection prevalence was 7.2%. Age group 4 -7 years recorded the highest prevalence for S. haematobium, A. lumbricoides, T. Trichiura and hookworm infections. Multiple infections were also recorded, with 22.9% having double infections and 2.5% having triple infections. The most common double infection was A. lumbricoides with T. trichiura (8.9%), while the most common triple infection was A. lumbricoides, S. haematobium and hookworm (1.7%). Conclusion The results from the present study revealed an evident need for the systematic and sustained administration of school-based chemotherapy program targeting the control of STH infection and Schistosomiasis using Albendazole and Praziquantel respectively in the community, instead of a one-off approach that was carried out.

A cross-sectional survey was carried out in primary schools to determine prevalence, intensity and spatial co-distribution of Schistosomiasis and soil transmitted helminths (STH) infections in Ogun State, Nigeria. A total of 2148 pupils from 42 schools were examined forSchistosomaand STH infections from urine and fresh fecal samples respectively. Ethyl ether concentration method prepared in sodium acetate – acetic acid – formalin ether was used to concentrate parasites’ ova before microscopic examination. The overall prevalence of schistosomiasis and STH infections were 4.0% (95% CI = 3.21–4.92) and 34.64% (95% CI = 32.62–36.69) respectively.Schistosoma haematobiumandAscaris lumbricoideswere the most prevalent across the study area among theSchistosomaand STH species respectively. Overall, intensity of infection was higher in males than in females for allSchistosomaand STH infections, but with no significant difference (P > 0.05), except forTrichuris trichiura(χ2 = 6.490,P χ2 = 12.953,P Schistosomaand STH infections occurred in 15 (35.7%) out of 42 schools, and only 30 children (1.4%) had co-infection ofSchistosomaand STH. This study provides information on the prevalence and spatial risk of schistosomiasis and STH in Ogun State. This will serve as decision-support tool for Ogun State programme managers to help facilitate integration of schistosomiasis and STH control.

Malaria parasites and packed cell volume offree range poultry was conducted on one hundred free range chickens collected from three communities in Abeokuta (Osiele, Lafenwa and Kuto). The results revealed that out of the 100 free range chickens examined, 13(13%) were infected with avian malaria parasite. Hematological parameter i.e. packed cell volume (PCV) revealed that chicken with PCV range 16-20 were 33.33% positive for malaria parasite. Others between PCV ranges 21 – 25 were 33.3%, while those between PCV ranges of 26 – 30 were 16.66% and those with PCV range of 31 – 35 were 16.67%.Chi-square analysis showed a significant difference between packed cell volume and malaria parasite(p0.05). The presence of avian malaria parasites in the study area could be of some epidemiological implications since the infected poultry could act as reservoir for malaria parasites.

Aedes albopictus (Skuse) was first recorded in Nigeria in 1991 during a post epidemiological surveillance of yellow fever epidemics in Delta State. In this report, we present a map of the current distribution of Ae. albopictus and its possible epidemiological implications based on accessible records of mosquito fauna in Nigeria using electronic e-journal searching engines. We also report the results of a field study on population dominance between Aedes aegypti and Ae. albopictus in a woodland habitat in southwestern Nigeria between March and November 2002. Of over 100 accessible papers on mosquito fauna in Nigeria, only 18 have reported information on Ae. albopictus. Literature shows that Ae. albopictus became well established in southeastern Nigeria and then spread to other southern regions. There was no information about the species in northern Nigeria except Kano where a record of its breeding was reported. Data showed dominance of Ae. albopictus over Ae. aegypti in southeastern Nigeria but the revers...

SUMMARY The Nigerian national control programme (NCP) for schistosomiasis does not have a specific action plan for female genital schistosomiasis (FGS), mainly due to gaps in epidemiological and clinical surveillance. To address this, we conducted a pilot investigation for FGS in girls (>5 and ≤15 years) and adult women (≥16 years) in four rural communities near Abeokuta, Ogun State. Urine samples were collected from 317 participants [children (n = 187), adults (n = 130)] and examined for ova of S chistosoma haematobium by microscopy. A total of 149 participants (47·0%) had egg-patent urogenital schistosomiasis [children (64·7%), adults (21·6%)], reported blood in urine was common (44·5%) as well as sign-post symptoms of FGS. To verify FGS directly, 20 adult women each underwent a gynaecological investigation by colposcopy with observed lesions classified according to the WHO FGS pocket atlas. Fourteen (70·0%) women presented with FGS as grainy-sandy patches (n = 10), homogenous yellow sandy patches (n = 6), nabothian cysts and rubbery papules (n = 1). Our study confirms FGS in Ogun State and calls for further appraisals of this disease in other areas where urogenital schistosomiasis is endemic. The Nigerian NCP should be encouraged to develop an appropriate response to FGS not only to detect it, but also to prevent it.

Malaria, syphilis and Hepatitis B during pregnancy are detrimental to the life of the pregnant women a nd the foetus. In this study, we documented the preval ence of the three diseases among pregnant women attending selected Comprehensive Health Care centers in Osogbo, Nigeria using serological kits of the 200 participants who consented to participate in the st udy, 26 (13%) were positive for malaria while 6 (3% ) were positive for Hepatitis B. The co-infection of malaria and Hepatitis B was found only in two participants (1%) while none of the participants wa s positive for syphilis. There was no significant difference in the prevalence of malaria and Hepatit is B in relation to age (p>0.05). All the participa nts had good knowledge that mosquitoes transmit malaria but only 29 (14.5%) claimed to be sleeping under insecticide treated bed-net, About 169 (84.5%) reli ed solely on insecticide spray of the room and 2 (1 %) did not practice any mosquito control measures. The res ults suggest the low prevalence of malaria, Hepatit is B and syphilis at the study area. However, early surv eillance and adequate public health education will be immeasurable in safe-guiding the pregnant women from the detrimental effects of these infections.

This study reports information on human migration and its possible role in the spread of onchocerciasis in Ogun State. Employing structured questionnaire, information on history of migration and residency was obtained from a total of 2,169 participants selected from 32 communities (four from each of the eight meso-endemic LGA’s) receiving treatment with ivermectin. The study which was conducted between March and June 2015 also investigated the sero prevalence of Onchocerca volvulus using onchocerciasis IgG4 RDT. Data were analysed using SPSS 20 software. Demographic information revealed that 43.3% (939/2,169) were males while 56.7% (1,230/2,169) were females. 37.9% (823/2,169) were non-natives of the communities in a ratio 1:3. Assessing information on migration history, 49.5% (1,074/2,169) of total population had at one point lived outside the communities in the past 10 years while 50.5% (1,095/2,169) had not. Result on sero-prevalence revealed an overall sero-prevalence of 9.9% (214/2,169) across all LGA’s studied, non natives of communities recorded the leastsero-positive 5.8% (48/823), followed by residents that had at one time lived outside the communities in the past 10 years 6.1% (66/1,074) while highest sero prevalence was recorded among permanent residents 13.5% (148/1,095). Sero-prevalence and migration history of participants were negatively correlated with no significant difference r =-0.4619 p >0.05). The results revealed the diverse population of people resident in onchocerciasis communities and also informs on the implication of human migration on exposure to O. volvulus in Ogun State. Keywords: migration, onchocerciasis Ov16 RDT, O. volvulus , Ogun State, Nigeria

The burden of malaria and its associated problems in pregnancy can be reduced by the use of different malaria preventive measures. This study was conducted to determine the comparative effectiveness of three different malaria preventive measures on populations of parturient in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria. Blood samples from maternal placenta were collected from 211 parturient. Blood films were prepared, stained with 10% giemsa and observed for malaria parasites under the microscope. Relevant maternal demographic characteristics were obtained from the parturient and chi-square test was conducted to measure relationships using SPSS version 16.0. A low prevalence of maternal and placental malaria infections were recorded among parturient that used either Long Lasting Insecticidal Nets (LLIN) or Intermittent Preventive Treatment (IPT) during pregnancy ( p

Seasonal fluctuations of the Simulium damnosum Theobald complex and the prevalence of Onchocerca volvulus Bickel in blackflies caught in river systems bordering the Nigeria-Benin border were assessed for their direct impact on the epidemiology of onchocerciasis in South-western Nigeria. Entomological evaluation and heteroduplex assay (HDA) techniques were performed on flies caught in the eight capture points in the Ogun and Yewa river systems between October and December 2007, July and December 2008 and May and December 2009. A total of 5789 blackflies were caught on human bait, of which 727 (12.6%) flies were captured in 2007, 1723 (29.8%) in 2008 and 3339 (57.6%) in 2009. The majority of flies caught during the study were forest flies representing 90.3% of the total catch while savanna flies constituted 9.7%. Proportions of parous to nulliparous flies were low in all the catching points (31.1 and 68.9%, respectively). Of the 5789 flies dissected, 11 (0.2%) flies were infected with Onchocerca parasites with nine of the infected flies having L3 head parasites. The HDA results revealed that the Beffa form of S. soubrense was the dominant cytospecies present (87.1%) in all the capture sites when compared with 12.9% of S. damnosum s.s. The low level of infectivity of flies may therefore indicate a low transmission level of onchocerciasis in the communities along the Ogun and Yewa river systems. However, there is a need for constant surveillance on species composition and fly infectivity in the river systems along the borders of Nigeria-Benin Republic.

The root and leaf extracts of four plants, Occimum gratissimum, Azadirachta indica, Pterocarpus santalinoides, and Pistia hyptis, were studied for repellent activities against the adults of Simulium damnosum sensu lato. The leaves and roots were extracted with 95% ethanol and the stocks were diluted with paraffin. The repellent activities of the extracts were investigated using human baits along the banks of River Oyan and River Ogun in southwestern Nigeria. The results showed that the root extract of O. grattissium and leaf extract of P. hyptis had highest repellent potentials with 78% and 78.1% protection against S. damnosum sensu lato, respectively, whereas the root and leaf of P. santalinoides recorded the least. Although there were significant differences in the percentage of protection of the extracts of the plants (p0.05), the variations in the percentage of protection of the leaf and root extracts were not statistically significant (p0.05). The study concludes that there exist some repellent efficacies in the extracts of the plants, most importantly O. grattissimum and P. hyptis. The plant extracts can further be developed in the prevention of man-vector contact in onchocerciasis endemic communities.

Aim: A survey was carried out to assess awareness, possession and use of insecticide-treated nets (ITN) by mothers in preventing malaria among children under 5 years old. Methods: Pretested questionnaires were administered by trained research assistants to women that have had a child in the last 59 months, irrespective of place of child delivery. Results: Malaria was considered dangerous by almost all respondents (98.5%); the level of awareness of ITN as a malaria preventive tool was 75.1% while possession was 45%. Awareness and possession of ITN were positively and significantly influenced by high educational qualification of mothers and attendance of a public hospital for antenatal care. Hospitals were identified as the major source of awareness among respondents; women that delivered their babies in traditional birth home displayed least awareness (38.6%) and recorded low possession (10%). There was no significant relationship between ITN usage, birth order and age of child. Heat experienced while sleeping under ITN and problem of how to hang the net were major limitations identified in the use of ITN. Conclusion: The need to involve women receiving antenatal care outside the hospital in malaria control intervention is hereby recommended. Methods of bridging ITN possession and use needs to de developed.

Recurrent cycles of fevers and chills are obvious symptoms for malaria disease usually necessitating treatment. However, some Plasmodium infections could be without symptoms, leading to late diagnosis and delayed treatment- seeking behaviours. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of asymptomatic malaria infections, and document associated prevention and treatment-seeking behaviours among literates in Abeokuta. A cross-sectional study design involving 309 attendees at the 2016 World Malaria Day Celebration event held at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta was conducted. Finger-prick blood samples were collected for Plasmodium parasite detection by malaria rapid diagnostic test (mRDT) and anthropometric indices such as weight, height and age were also collected to estimate Body-Mass-Index. An already pre-tested questionnaire was also used to collect information on malaria prevention and treatment-seeking behaviours. Data were analysed in SPSS 20.0 software. Results revealed that the prevalence of asymptomatic malaria was 7.4% (23/309), with no significant association between sex, febrile illness and Body Mass Index ( p >0.05). Participants aged 15-25 years were more infected with malaria than other age groups. Only 58.3% of the participants have heard of Long Lasting Insecticidal Nets (LLINs) and about 78% do not have mosquito bed-net. Self-diagnosis for the disease was more common (60.8%) among the participants, compared to other measures; seeking laboratory test (26.5%) and clinical diagnosis (9.1%). A good proportion of the participants (73.1%) rely on Artemisinin-based Combination Therapy (ACT) drugs for treating malaria, although few others still rely on non-ACT drugs (17.8%), chloroquine (1.9%) and herbs (1.6%). Findings show existence of asymptomatic malaria. Also, access to and utilization of malaria prevention and control commodities is poor among the literates. There is thus a need to intensify efforts in addressing these concerns as we move towards eliminating the disease. Keywords: Asymptomatic malaria; World Malaria Day; prevalence; Abeokuta; Nigeria

Background: The biting preference of Simulium vectors has been known to influence the distribution ofOnchocerca nodules and microfilariae in human body. There is, however, variation in biting pattern of Simuliumflies in different geographical locations. This study investigates the biting pattern on human parts by Simuliumvectors along Osun river system where Simulium soubrense Beffa form has been implicated as the dominantvector and its possible implication on the distribution of Onchocerca nodules on human body along the river.Methods: Flies were collected by consented fly capturers on exposed human parts namely head/neck region,arms, upper limb and lower limb in Osun Eleja and Osun Budepo along Osun river in the wet season (August–September) and the dry season (November–December) in 2008. The residents of the communities were alsoscreened for palpable Onchocerca nodules.Results: The results showed that number of flies collected below the ankle region was significantly higher thanthe number collected on other exposed parts (p

Praziquantel (PZQ) remains the drug of choice for treatment of schistosomiasis in infected persons. This study assessed the efficacy and safety of PZQ in school-aged children in four communities’ endemic for schistosomiasis. Urine samples (10 ml) were collected from 300 primary school children aged 5-16 years in Ibaro Oyan, Imala Odo, Apojola and Abule Titun communities located in parts of Ogun State, Nigeria. The urine was examined for the presence of haematuria and ova of S. haematobium . All pupils were also treated with a single dose of PZQ at 40 mg/kg. Urine samples were collected from positive pupils 21 days later to determine the Cure Rate (CR) and Egg Reduction Rate (ERR). Survey forms were also used to collect information on safety of the drug, documenting observed adverse reaction. Results showed that prevalence by haematuria was 147 (69%). Assessing haematuria with ova of S. haematobium revealed that 132 (44%) were positive for haematuria using dip-stick and eggs of S. haematobium simultaneously. Two hundred and nine pupils (69.7%) were infected with S. haematobium with mean egg count of 16.23 eggs/10 ml of urine. Males (73%) were more infected than females (66.7%). The highest prevalence (72.8%) was observed among the age-group 9-12 years and the least prevalence among age-group 5-8 years. The presence of S. haematobium was neither age nor sex dependent ( p >0.05). On location and intensity, school children located in Imala Odo Community had the highest prevalence of 89.2%, but pupils in Ibaro had the highest Geometric Mean (GM) of 18.31 eggs/10 ml. At 21 days post-treatment the cure-rate (CR) was 96.1%. The anthelminthic drug Praziquantel efficacy was satisfactory with an Egg Reduction Rate (ERR) of 98.5%. Most of the adverse effects occurred within 4-24 hours after PZQ administration but abdominal pains were the most common adverse visible micro effects complained by the school-children. Keywords: Efficacy, praziquantel; Schistosoma haematobium ; school-aged children; Ogun State; Nigeria

A cross-sectional study to determine malaria parasitemia amongst 300 randomly selected pregnant women attending government and private healthcare facilities in Rivers State was carried out. Blood samples were obtained through venous procedure and the presence or absence of Plasmodium was determined microscopically through thin and thick blood films. Socio-demographic information was obtained from questionnaires administered to the pregnant women enrolled. A total of 81 (27.0%) pregnant women were infected with P. falciparum. In private healthcare centres, 39 (26.0%) pregnant women were infected, while 42 (28.0%) were found infected in government hospital (x2= 0.101, df= 1, p>0.05). In the private healthcare centres, malaria prevalence among pregnant women in their first, second and third trimesters varied between 24.0-30.0% while in the government healthcare centre, malaria prevalence varied between 22.0%-30.0% (x2= 0.502, df= 2, p>0.05). In the private healthcare centres, malaria prevalence among primigravidae, secundigravidae and multigravidae varied between 22.0-28.0% while in the government healthcare centres, malaria prevalence varied between 23.0-32.0% (x2 = 0.084, df= 2, p>0.05). In the private healthcare centres, malaria prevalence among age groups 11-20, 21-30 and 31-40 varied between 17.0-29.0% while in the government healthcare centre, malaria prevalence varied between 26.0-29.0% (x2= 1.408, df= 2, p>0.05). There was no overall significant difference in malaria prevalence between the government and private healthcare facilities. Malaria is a public health burden especially amongst pregnant women, therefore adequate health education and proper control measures against malaria should be encouraged.Keywords: Prevalence; pregnancy; plasmodium; gestation; parity; age.

estimate that malariahas caused 300–500 million infections, 100 million clinical casesand 1.5–2.7 million deaths, represent ing a serious public healthproblem in Asia and Africa. It is caused by a protozoan parasite,Plasmodium, transmitted from person to person, mainly throughthe bite of a female Anopheles mosquito which requires blood tonurture her eggs. The female Anopheles mosquito is the vector forhuman malaria, and mainly bites humans between 5pm and 7am,with maximum intensity between 10pm and 4am. This providesthe basis for the use of mosquito bed nets and insecticide-treatedbed nets (ITNs) whilst sleeping, since mosquitoes are most activeduring that period.

Lymphatic filariasis (LF) is one of the neglected tropical diseases endemic in Nigeria. Epidemiological studies were conducted to determine the prevalence, distribution and clinical signs of the disease in three communities of Ose LGA, Ondo State from October 2014 to January 2015. One thousand and ninety consented participants enrolled for the study. 100 μ l of blood from finger-prick, were tested using the Binax Now ® Immunochromatographic Test (ICT) which detects Wuchereria bancrofti antigens. Physical observations were conducted for clinical signs of LF in addition to demographic parameters. Chi -square test was used to establish statistical significance of relationship between variables ( p 0.05). Infection among age-groups was higher in the 36-45 age-group (36%) and varied among the other age-groups but with no significant difference ( p >0.05). Infection was significantly ( p

There is an urgent need for information on schistosomiasis in preschool children, who are often excluded in mass treatment programmes. The prevalence and intensity of Schistosoma haematobium infection were determined in preschool children aged ≤ 6 years in two rural communities in Ijebu East, south-western Nigeria. Two urine samples each were collected from 83 preschool children from the two communities, tested for microhaematuria using reagent strips and then processed and examined with a microscope for S. haematobium eggs. Focus group discussions on perceptions of the disease and water contact practices were held in the communities with their guardians, caregivers and preschool children, using an interview guide. The prevalence of S. haematobium in the two communities was 14 (16.9%), with no significant differences (P = 0.661) in infection rate between boys (18.4%) and girls (14.7%). Both prevalence and intensity of infection did not increase significantly with age in both Korede and Obada community. However, there were significant differences in prevalence of infection between the two communities (P = 0.035). There was no association (P = 0.750) between intensity in boys (0.176 eggs/10 ml urine) and girls (0.110 eggs/10 ml urine). Focal group discussions with guardians and caregivers revealed that preschool children acquired infection early in their lives through exposure to infected stream water by their mothers, while the older children visit the stream for playing, bathing and swimming. It has therefore become imperative for preschool children to be included in the planning of schistosomiasis intervention programmes as a means of reducing transmission.

Four hundred and fifty respondents were examined for urinary schistosomiasis in Ibaro-Oyan and Abule Titun communities that depend on the Oyan Dam for their livelihood. Using laboratory examination of urine samples and structured questionnaire, prevalence was 86.0% Ibaro-Oyan and 88.0% Abule-Titun. Males were more infected (89% Ibaro-Oyan and 96% Abule Titun) than females (82% and 74% respectively). Statistical analysis showed no significant difference in infection rates between sexes (p>0.005). Sixty-seven per cent males and 53% females in Ibaro-Oyan and 64% males and 53% females in Abule Titun had observable haematuria in their urine. Most respondents (97.4% and 99.6%) from Ibaro-Oyan and Abule Titun rely heavily on the Oyan Dam for source of water and also aware that infection is due to their water contact activities with the dam. The continued high endemicity could be reduced if the Ogun State government incorporates the political will to eliminate the scourge.

A study was conducted to determine the direct prevalence, intensity and re-infection pattern of ascariasis among school pupils aged 6-17 years in Ogun State, Nigeria; 2,837 primary school pupils randomly selected from twenty schools in five Local Government Areas (LGAs) namely: Odeda, Obafemi/Owode, Ewekoro, Ado-Odo/Otta, and Ogun Waterside were enlisted for the study. Drug (Levamisole) administration was used to determine the direct prevalence, intensity and the re-infection patterns of infection. The overall direct prevalence for A.lumbricoides was 48.5%. Obafemi/Owode had the highest mean infection rate of 62.6%, followed by Ogun Waterside (59.19%), Odeda (44.8%), Ewekoro (34.2%) and Ado-Odo/Otta (25.6%). Male pupils were slightly more infected (51.9%) than females (48.1%) and also had higher mean intensity (2.2) than females (1.7). Statistical analysis showed no significant difference between the infection rates in both sexes (t=2.60, p=0.234). The cumulative numbers of worms expelled by pupils in the LGAs were Ogun Waterside 778 (39.5%), Obafemi/Owode 768 (39%), Odeda 216 (11%), Ewekoro 152 (7.7%) and Ado-Odo/Otta 55 (2.8%). The morphometric studies revealed that of the 1969 worms voided, adult worms accounted for 92.7% while young worms formed only 7.3%. Re-infection of pupils with ascariasis from different LGAs varied. The calculated monthly re-infection rates (X) were: Ewekoro (1.6%), Odeda (2.3%), Ado-Odo/Otta (2.3%), Ogun Waterside (3.8%), and Obafemi/Owode (4.2%); with a mean value of 2.84% for Ogun State. The re-infection time (N months) are Ado-Odo/Otta (12.7), Ogun Waterside (21.8), Obafemi/Owode (22.92), Odeda (25.45), and Ewekoro (25.9). The mean value for N in Ogun State was 21.75, which implies that it would require 22 months for initial equilibrium of A.lumbricoides infection to be attained in school pupils in Ogun State, Nigeria. Keywords : Ascaris lumbricoides , reinfection, primary school pupils, Ogun State Nigerian Journal of Parasitology Vol. 25, 2004: 7-13

The study examined the association between surface soil physico-chemical properties and the prevalence of Ascaris lumbricoides in Ogun State. A school-based prevalence survey was carried out among 1,800 school pupils randomly selected from five Local Government Areas (LGAs) representing the major soil-geological zones in relation to their parent rocks namely: Odeda LGA (undifferentiated Basement Complex), Obafemi/Owode LGA (Sandstone-Abeokuta Formation), Ewekoro LGA (Upper Coal Measure Ewekoro formation), Ado-Odo/Otta LGA (Coastal Plain Sands I-Alfisols), and Ogun Waterside LGA (Coastal Plain Sands II-Utisols). Kato smear method was used to determine the indirect prevalence and intensity of infection while drug (Levamisole) administration was used to determine the direct prevalence and intensity of infection, in addition to analysis of the physico-chemical characteristics of the surface soil samples from the LGAs. The overall indirect prevalence of infection was Ascaris lumbricoides (72.5%), Hookworm (8.5%) and Trichuris trichiura (6.0%). The direct prevalence for A.lumbricoides was 48.5%. The physico-chemical studies of surface soils (5cm depth) from the LGAs showed that sand/silt content and pH varied significantly among the soils. The total nitrogen and exchangeable cations (Mg ++ , Ca ++ , K + , and Na + ) also vary significantly (P Keywords : Ascaris lumbricoides , soil-transmitted helminths, physico-chemical properti Nigerian Journal of Parasitology Vol. 25, 2004: 25-31

Background Studies on biting behaviours and infectivity status of insect vectors are pre-requisites in understanding the epidemiology of the vector- borne diseases and planning effective control measures. A longitudinal study was carried out to investigate the transmission index of Simulium damnosum complex species along Osun River, South Western Nigeria. Adult flies were collected on human attractants from 07:00 to 18:00 hours for two consecutive days from February 2008 to June 2009 at three communities: Osun Eleja, Osun Ogbere and Osun Budepo. The infectivity rate was determined by dissection and Polymerase Chain Reaction amplification (PCR) of 0-150 genes of Onchocerca parasite using the pool screening technique. Results The results indicated that the majority of the flies collected at the three sampling points were nulliparous as they accounted for 53.90%, 57.86% and 59.58% of the flies dissected at Osun Budepo, Osun Ogbere and Osun Eleja, respectively. The parous rate was higher during the dry season than the wet season but the difference was not statistically significant (p < 0.05). The biting activity of the parous flies showed two peaks at Osun Budepo and three peaks at Osun Eleja and Osun Ogbere. Of the 1,472 flies dissected and 1,235 flies screened by molecular method, none was infected with Onchocerca parasite at the three sampling points however the annual biting rates at the three communities were higher than 1,000 considered as tolerable value for a person living in an onchocerciasis zone by Word Health Organization. Conclusion The study has provided the baseline data for further study on onchocerciasis transmission dynamics and the need to intercept man- simuliid vector contact at the study area.