Intestinal Parasitic Infections Among Inmates of a Correctional Facility in Rivers State, South South Nigeria

Correctional facilities represent high-risk environments for the transmission of intestinal parasitic infections due to overcrowding, limited sanitation infrastructure, and restricted access to clean water. This study investigates the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections among inmates of a medium-security correctional facility in Rivers State, South South Nigeria. A cross-sectional descriptive design was adopted, with 220 adult male inmates recruited by simple random sampling. Fresh stool samples were collected and examined using direct wet mount microscopy and formal-ether concentration techniques to detect protozoa and helminth ova. A structured self-administered questionnaire captured data on length of incarceration, personal hygiene practices, history of diarrhoea, toilet access, and previous deworming. Expected pathogens include Ascaris lumbricoides, hookworm species, Giardia lamblia, and Entamoeba histolytica. Evidence from 2020 to 2024 documents elevated intestinal parasite prevalence in Nigerian custodial settings, with inadequate deworming coverage and poor sanitation cited as primary drivers. This study aims to generate infection data disaggregated by duration of detention, housing block, and sanitation access level. The findings will support advocacy for incorporating routine deworming and improved WASH facilities into the Nigerian Correctional Service health programme. Recommendations will be directed to the Rivers State Command of the Nigerian Correctional Service and the State Ministry of Justice. Keywords: intestinal parasites, correctional facility, inmates, Rivers State, sanitation.