Schistosomiasis Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Among School-Going Children Aged 5-14 Years in Nelson Mandela Bay (NMB), South Africa.

BACKGROUND

Schistosomiasis, a parasitic waterborne infection, remains a major public health challenge in disadvantaged regions, with schoolchildren (5-14 years) at high risk due to frequent water exposure. The study is aimed at assessing the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) related to schistosomiasis among school-aged children in Nelson Mandela Bay (NMB) and examining how sociodemographic and environmental factors influence KAP outcomes.

METHODS

A quantitative, descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted among 759 schoolchildren aged 5-14 years, enrolled in Grades 0-7. Data were collected using a structured, closed-ended, interview-administered questionnaire, which included sections on sociodemographic characteristics, clinical history, and KAP related to schistosomiasis. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were performed to evaluate associations and describe the data using R software (Version 4.3.1).

RESULTS

Only 11% participants were aware of schistosomiasis, mainly learning from school (62%) or home (35%). Key environmental factors included urinating in rivers (44%), living near water bodies (21.1%), and swimming (11.3%). Knowledge and attitude scores showed a moderate positive correlation (r = 0.33; p < 0.001). Gender and grade level significantly influenced KAP scores, with males and older children (Grades 4-7) exhibiting better knowledge (p = 0.015), attitudes (p = 0.023), and practices (p = 0.001). Females had lower knowledge scores (β = -0.15; p = 0.018), while older children displayed fewer positive attitudes (β = 0.07; p = 0.038) and poorer practices (β = 0.11; p = 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Significant gaps in knowledge, poor attitudes, and inadequate hygiene practices highlight the need for targeted education and community-based strategies to improve KAP and reduce schistosomiasis risk in NMB schoolchildren.