Urogenital schistosomiasis outbreak in a basic school, Volta Region, Ghana: a case-control study

Area of Science:

• Epidemiology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Schistosomiasis is a neglected parasitic disease affecting millions globally, with a notable prevalence in Ghana, particularly among school children.
• An increase in bloody urine cases among students in Ghana's Volta Region prompted an investigation into a potential outbreak.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify the causative agent and source of the schistosomiasis outbreak.
• To determine the magnitude, associated risk factors, and implement control measures for the infection.

Main Methods:

• A case-control study was conducted involving students with suspected or confirmed Schistosoma infection.
• Data on socio-demographics, clinical symptoms, and exposure history were collected and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics.

Main Results:

• Out of 880 students, 112 suspected cases were identified, with 76.8% confirmed positive for Schistosoma.
• Male students had higher odds of infection. Fishing and swimming were significantly associated risk factors, as was a previous history of bloody urine.

Conclusions:

• Schistosoma haematobium was identified as the agent responsible for the outbreak.
• Water-related activities including fishing and swimming were identified as key risk factors.
• Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) education and mass drug administration with Praziquantel were implemented as control strategies.