Urinary schistosomiasis in gedarif : an endemic new focus in Eastern Sudan

Abstract EN

Background : Schistosomiasis is endemic in many parts of Sudan.

Despite the ongoing control activities, new foci are continuously discovered and documented.

Objectives : To document the prevalence of urinary schistosomiasis in Gedarif, Eastern Sudan, and to elaborate on risk factors for infection.

Materials and Methods : A community-based survey was conducted; all age groups attending a religious school (khalwa) in Elwadi District–Gedarif were included.

Demographic and risk behavior data were obtained through a questionnaire.

Fresh urine samples were obtained and examined microscopically in the field.

Results : Out of 480 volunteers participated, 260 (54.1 %) were females.

The mean age was 18.4 (+17.1) years.

The prevalence of urinary schistosomiasis was 9.4 % among the study group.

All of those affected were children and young adults (mean 11.82 + 2.98) years ; 10 (22.2 %) were in the age group 1-10 years, and 35 (77.8 %) were 11-20 years.

The disease is more common among males 33 (73.3 %).

Most participants 312 (65.3 %) have no prior knowledge about the cause of the disease, nor the modes of its transmission 411 (85.6 %).

Conclusion : Urinary schistosomiasis is endemic in Gedarif with the burden among children and young adults.

Health education and sanitary management is needed for control.