Assessment of Schistosoma haematobium Infection Among Pupils in Rural Communities Along River Niger in Kogi State, North Central Nigeria

Urogenital schistosomiasis caused by Schistosoma haematobium continues to threaten the health and educational outcomes of school-age children in riverine communities across Nigeria. This study assesses the prevalence and intensity of S. haematobium infection among primary school pupils in rural communities along the River Niger in Kogi State, North Central Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional approach was adopted, with 320 pupils aged 5 to 15 years recruited from four riverside communities in Lokoja and Ajaokuta Local Government Areas. Mid-day urine samples were collected and examined microscopically using the membrane filtration technique to detect and count S. haematobium eggs. Structured questionnaires explored water contact behaviour, swimming frequency, proximity to rivers, and awareness of schistosomiasis transmission. Recent publications from 2020 to 2024 document persistent transmission foci in North Central Nigeria, particularly among children with high-frequency water contact for domestic and recreational purposes. Prevalence estimates and egg count intensity data generated from this study will provide critical input for designing targeted preventive chemotherapy programmes. The study also assesses the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of parents regarding the infection, offering insights for community sensitisation. Outcomes will be shared with the Kogi State Primary Health Care Development Agency to strengthen school-based deworming initiatives. This research contributes to Nigeria's commitment to the WHO roadmap for neglected tropical diseases. Keywords: Schistosoma haematobium, urogenital schistosomiasis, riverine communities, Kogi State, membrane filtration.