Prevalence of soil-transmitted helminths’ ova in soil in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria

Substantial Nigerian populace are at risk of soil-transmitted helminths such as Strongyloides stercoralis, Ascaris lumbricoides, Trichuris trichiura and hookworm. A study to enumerate soil-transmitted helminths (STHs) in Ibadan, Nigeria was conducted between September- December, 2017. Out of 150 soil samples examined with zinc sulphate concentration and formol ether sedimentation technique, 62% (95% CI: 53.7-69.8) were positive of STHs parasites. Strongyloides spp. was the most prevalence STH observed (30.0%) followed by Ascaris spp. (24.7%), with the least prevalence in Diphylidium caninum (0.6%). The parasitic ova intensity revealed that Strongyloides spp. showed significant increase (p<0.05) when compared with other parasitic ova in the locations. The highest mean parasite intensity was observed in Mokola, while the lowest was in Gege with no significant differences (p>0.05). Sources of soil sample revealed highest prevalence in dumpsite with a prevalence of 72.7% (95%CI: 54.5-86.7). The identified parasites from human and animal origin suggest environmental contamination. Enlightenment programmes on sanitation and hygiene, provisions of sanitary amenities are imperative to reduce the risk of epidemic outbreaks and zoonoses in humans and animals alike.Keywords: Soil-transmitted helminths; prevalence; Ibadan; Nigeria