Survey of Refuse Disposal Practices, Geohelminth Contamination, and Vector Abundance at Dumpsites in Akure Metropolis, Nigeria.

Rapid urbanization and poor waste management practices have led to environmental and public health concerns in Akure Metropolis, Nigeria. Open dumpsites serve as breeding grounds for vectors and reservoirs for soil-transmitted helminths (STHs), increasing the risk of parasitic infections and vector-borne diseases. This study investigates waste disposal practices, geohelminth contamination, and vector abundance at dumpsites to assess their implications for public health. The study was conducted at selected dumpsites in Akure Metropolis using a structured questionnaire to collect demographic and waste disposal data. Soil samples were collected and analyzed for helminth ova and larvae using the flotation and Bearmann culture techniques. Vectors, including insects and rodents, were captured and identified using standard entomological methods. Data analysis was performed using SPSS, with results presented in descriptive statistics and graphical formats. Out of 100 respondents, 30% used formal waste collection services, whereas 29% disposed of refuse directly at dumpsites, and 41% used both methods. Soil analysis revealed high contamination with Strongyloides stercoralis, Ascaris lumbricoides, and hookworm ova, with 14 out of 15 samples testing positive. Houseflies (Musca domestica), ants, mosquitoes, and rodents were abundant, acting as potential mechanical carriers of parasites. Ants were the most prevalent vectors (41.35%), followed by mosquitoes (30.77%) and houseflies (25.96%). Rodents (1.92%) were the least abundant. The study highlights the significant public health risks associated with refuse dumpsites due to high geohelminth contamination and vector proliferation. Urgent intervention is needed to improve waste management, public awareness, and sanitation practices to mitigate disease transmission risks in Akure Metropolis.