[Prevalence of urinary schistosomiasis in the school population in Senegal in 2002]

The strong prevalence of schistosomiasis in the school population is correlated with underperformance in educational outcomes in Senegal. The geoclimatic conditions and bad socio-economic conditions facilitate transmission of these infections. This study was to define t he prevalence of these infections in sites throughout the country in school age children.

This study was undertaken from November 2002 to January 2003 and included 63 schools; (n=2245) for an effectif of 30 000 pupils, means 7.4%. These pupils underwent urine examination for schistosomiasis in children with hematuria using millipore filtration method.

The results of the study are: overall there were 364 cases (16%). Prevalence rates: Tambacounda 27.8%, Bakel 21.5%, Kédougou 21.8%, Matam 13%, Podor 22.5%, Dagana 28.3%, and Saint-Louis 0%. This study demonstrates a high prevalence of parasites in school age children. Notably there is unique infection patterns in each village and this data will help direct public health interventions.

These results show a high rate prevalence of urinary schistosomiasis in school population in these departments. It explains the underperformance in educational outcomes in these a reas.