Prevalence of Intestinal Parasitic Infections Among Primary School Children in Ebonyi State

Background: Intestinal parasitic infections remain a significant public health concern among school-age children in resource-limited settings, contributing to anaemia, malnutrition, and impaired cognitive development. This study determines the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections among primary school children in Ebonyi State, South East geopolitical zone of Nigeria. Methods: A cross-sectional school-based study was conducted among 280 children selected from four primary schools using stratified random sampling. Stool samples were analysed using direct wet mount and formol-ether concentration techniques. Sociodemographic and hygiene data were collected via structured questionnaire administered to parents. Results: Ascaris lumbricoides was the most prevalent parasite identified, followed by Trichuris trichiura and hookworm species. Overall infection prevalence was high. Open defaecation practices and absence of hand washing facilities were significantly associated with parasitic infection. Conclusion: High rates of intestinal parasitic infections among school children in Ebonyi State necessitate integration of deworming programmes with school health education on hygiene and sanitation. Family medicine practitioners should advocate for regular school-based deworming within primary healthcare outreach frameworks. Keywords: intestinal parasites, school children, helminthiasis, Ebonyi State, sanitation