Observations on the epidemiology of human taeniasis amongst the Goemai tribe of northern Nigeria.

A study on the epidemiology of human taeniasis amongst the Goemai tribe of Kwande rural community of Qua'an Pan Local Government Area carried out between January and June, 1991 is reported. 115 or 11.5% of the 1,000 persons examined were infected. Of the 614 males and 386 females examined, 77 (12.5%) and 38 (9.9%) respectively had infections. No significant difference in prevalence rates was recorded between the sexes and age groups. Infection was significantly higher (P < 0.05) among farmers than other occupational categories, and in those eating half roasted/cooked meat than in persons eating well-cooked meat. Other epidemiological factors relating to type of toilet facilities used as well as some socio-cultural and traditional beliefs of Goemai people which encourage host-parasite contact and their implications for public health are discussed. Suggestions are made for the control of human taeniasis in the community.