Burden and Transmission Dynamics of Urinary Schistosomiasis Among School aged Children in Mubi Metropolis, Adamawa State, Nigeria

Schistosomiasis remains an important public health problem, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. This study assessed the burden and transmission dynamics of urinary schistosomiasis among school-aged children in Mubi Metropolis, Adamawa State, Nigeria. A total of 309 urine samples were collected from school-aged children attending six primary schools: Mubi 1, Kolere, Kabang, Wuro Patuji, Lokuwa 1, and Shuware Primary Schools. The urine samples were examined for the presence of Schistosoma haematobium eggs using a concentration technique. Socio-demographic characteristics and potential risk factors associated with urinary schistosomiasis were assessed using a structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using the chi-square test to determine associations between infection status and selected variables. Of the 309 children examined, 55 were positive for S. haematobium, giving an overall prevalence of 17.8%. Kabang Primary School recorded the highest number of positive cases (14; 4.5% of the total sample), followed by Lokuwa 1 Primary School (12; 3.9%), while Wuro Patuji Primary School recorded the lowest number of cases (4; 1.3%). Male children accounted for 28 (9.1%) positive cases, compared with 27 (8.7%) among females; however, the association between gender and urinary schistosomiasis was not statistically significant (p = 0.470). Children aged 11–12 years recorded the highest number of positive cases (22; 7.1%), followed by those aged 9–10 years (21; 6.8%) and 7–8 years (12; 3.9%). There was no statistically significant association between age group and urinary schistosomiasis (p = 0.422). The findings demonstrate the occurrence of urinary schistosomiasis among school-aged children in Mubi Metropolis and indicate continued transmission within the study area. Activities involving frequent contact with potentially contaminated water bodies, including bathing, washing, farming, and recreational activities, may contribute to transmission. Strengthened health education, improved access to safe water and sanitation, periodic screening, and appropriate treatment of infected school-aged children are recommended