The prevalence and Risk Factors Associated with Urinary Schistosomiasis among basic schoolchildren at Althawra Mobi village, Wad Madani Alkobra Locality, Gezira State, Sudan

Abstract Schistosomiasis remains a major communicable disease of public health and socioeconomic importance in developing countries. This cross-sectional study assessed the prevalence of Schistosoma haematobium infection among basic schoolchildren in Al Thawra Mobi Village, Wad Madani Alkobra Locality, Gezira State, Sudan. A total of 272 participants (208 boys and 64 girls) were enrolled. Urine samples (10 ml) were collected, centrifuged at 5000 g for 5 minutes, and examined microscopically for S. haematobium ova; egg counts were recorded. Statistical analysis using SPSS (version 23) revealed an overall prevalence of 44% (115/261), comprising 102 mild cases and 13 severe cases. Infection was markedly higher among boys compared to girls. Risk factor analysis revealed that those children’s frequent water-contact activities around irrigation canals, such as swimming, bathing, watering animals, and washing, were significantly associated with infection. Despite tap water being the main source of drinking water, canals remained central to daily life and recreation, increasing exposure to transmission sites. The findings underscore the need for strengthened health education, improved sanitation, and integrated schistosomiasis control strategies, including preventive chemotherapy and snail control, to reduce disease burden in endemic communities. Keywords: Schistosomiasis, Schistosoma haematobium, prevalence, urinary schistosomiasis, schoolchildren, risk factors, Gezira State, Sudan