Prevalence, intensity and predictors of intestinal schistosomiasis among fishermen in Ilemela Municipality, Tanzania.

BACKGROUND

Fishermen are among the most at-risk goups for Schistosomiasis due to their regular contact with cercarial contaminated water. This study determined the prevalence, intensity and predictors of intestinal schistosomiasis among fishermen in Ilemela Municipality, Tanzania.

METHODS

An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted among fishermen in Ilemela Municipality, Tanzania. Participants were conveniently recruited. Background and risk information were collected using a semistructured questionnaire, and Kato-katz technique for stool examination. Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify predictors of infection.

RESULTS

Among the 388 participants, 26.3% were infected with Schistosoma mansoni. The geometric mean eggs per gram of feces was 37.98 (95% CI 30.98 to 46.57). Of all infected participants, 84 (82.35%) and 18 (17.65%), had light and moderate intensity infections, respectively. Age, education, fishing frequency, toilet at the fishing area, fishing in shallow water and along the lake shore, years of fishing experience and distance to health facility were the significant predictors of infection.

CONCLUSIONS

The study revealed a moderate prevalence of S. mansoni infection among study participants. This highlights fishermen as an untreated reservoir sustaining transmission, underscoring the need to include this group in control programs to protect this high-risk group and accelerate progress towards schistosomiasis-elimination goals.