Human water contact patterns in active schistosomiasis endemic areas

One major risk factor common to individuals in schistosomiasis endemic areas is water contact patterns. Effort to determine the dynamics in water contact patterns in different regions needs utmost attention in order to suggest a better control strategy for schistosome infection. Quantitative observations on human water contact activities were recorded in Yewa North Local Government Area of Ogun State for a period of two years. Frequency and duration of observed water contact activities were recorded. Males had the highest water contact during the rainy season with 51.1% compared to females with 48.9%. Females had the highest water contact with 51.0% while males had 49.0% during the dry season. The age group 10-19 years had the highest water contact with 27.1%, this was followed by 20-29 years and 30-39 years age groups with 23.6% and 22.1%, respectively, during the rainy season. Our results showed that water contact activities differ with respect to different communities, sex and age groups. Previous high prevalence of schistosome infection in the study areas could be attributed to high water contact activities. Therefore, provision of adequate pipe-borne water, good sanitation and improved knowledge on schistosome life cycle among the community members will reduce the high rate of human water contacts.