Schistosomiasis and Soil-Transmitted Helminthiasis (STH) — both caused by parasitic worms — are particularly prevalent in rural and underserved communities. These infections not only deprive children of essential nutrients and cause anaemia but also impair cognitive development and overall physical growth.
A Neglected but Dangerous Burden
Schistosomiasis, classified among the Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs), can lead to both acute and chronic illness. It affects vital organs including the bladder and liver and, if left untreated, may result in long-term complications.
STH, on the other hand, is caused by intestinal nematode worms transmitted through contaminated food, water, soil, or skin contact. Poor sanitation, unsafe water sources, and open defecation significantly contribute to the spread of both diseases.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), these infections can result in serious health consequences such as internal bleeding that leads to anaemia, intestinal inflammation or obstruction, diarrhoea, and reduced nutrient absorption. For children, the effects can be particularly damaging, negatively impacting physical development, school attendance, and overall wellbeing.
Deworming as a Preventive Strategy
To combat the burden, WHO recommends preventive chemotherapy — commonly known as deworming — as a cost-effective and evidence-based strategy.
The global health body advises that in communities where at least 20 percent of children are infected, periodic administration of anthelminthic medicines should be implemented. The recommended drugs include albendazole (400 mg) or mebendazole (500 mg), administered annually or biannually depending on infection levels.
Children aged 12–23 months, preschoolers (1–4 years), and school-age children (5–12 years) are considered priority groups. For children under two years, a half-dose (200 mg) of albendazole is recommended. In areas where prevalence exceeds 50 percent, treatment should occur twice yearly.
WHO emphasises, however, that medication alone is insufficient. Sustainable control requires improved access to clean water, sanitation facilities, and hygiene education to prevent reinfection.
High Infection Rates in the FCT
Despite existing interventions, infection rates remain high in some parts of Nigeria. A 2020 study conducted by a coalition of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) found that more than 50 percent of children across six area councils in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) were infected with schistosomiasis. Gwagwalada and Kwali were also identified as endemic for soil-transmitted helminths.
The study highlighted open defecation and poor hygiene practices as major drivers of transmission.
Impact on Child Development
Dr. Obiageli Nebe, former Deputy Director and Programme Manager of the Schistosomiasis and STH Elimination Programme at the Federal Ministry of Health, explained that infants and young children are particularly vulnerable because their immune systems are not fully developed.
She noted that parasitic infections deplete essential nutrients, leading to abdominal pain, anaemia, and bladder or liver complications. These health issues impair physical growth, reduce school attendance, and negatively affect learning outcomes.
According to Dr. Nebe, routine deworming improves children’s appetite, energy levels, and general health, while also reducing absenteeism and enhancing their capacity to learn.
Albendazole remains the most commonly used deworming medication, administered as a single 200 mg dose for young children and 400 mg for adults.
Beyond Medication: The Role of Hygiene
Experts stress that long-term prevention extends beyond pharmaceutical interventions. Key measures include:
- Wearing shoes to prevent contact with contaminated soil
- Washing hands thoroughly with soap and water after using the toilet and before eating
- Safely preparing and storing food
- Treating or filtering drinking water
- Eliminating open defecation in homes and schools
While progress has been made, Dr. Nebe acknowledged that significant gaps persist. Low treatment coverage, insufficient data, and under-treatment in high-burden communities continue to hinder elimination efforts.
She called for improved therapeutic and geographic coverage, as well as more detailed mapping of schistosomiasis data at ward level to enable targeted interventions.
Sustained Action Needed
As Nigeria strives to improve child health and educational outcomes, tackling intestinal worm infections requires sustained deworming campaigns alongside investments in sanitation, hygiene, and clean water infrastructure.
Without coordinated and consistent action, these preventable infections will continue to quietly undermine the health, development, and future potential of millions of Nigerian children.