Impact of praziquantel mass drug administration on schistosomiasis: a comparison of prevalence and risk factors between treated school aged children and untreated adults in Abuja, Nigeria

Summary

This study assessed schistosomiasis prevalence among school-aged children (SAC) and adults in Abuja, Nigeria, following praziquantel mass drug administration (MDA) to SAC. Among 1,370 participants, across four local area councils, overall prevalence was 27.5%, highest in Abuja Municipal (49%) and lowest in Bwari (6.1%). The prevalence of schistosomiasis was significantly higher among males (33.1%) than females (22.2%). The prevalence among SAC was 31% versus 23.9% in adults. Reliance on river water either exclusively or in combination with other sources was a significant risk factor for Schistosoma infection. The findings highlight persistent transmission despite MDA and call for improved water infrastructure and implementation of a behavioural change campaign.