Occupational Medicine & Health Affairs
Open Access

Abstract

The study aimed at assessing the level of knowledge of transmission of schistosomiasis and the other associated factors amongst community members in Mwaluphamba Location of Kwale County. A cross-sectional study design was adopted. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire. Results showed that a majority of the community members (98%) knew about schistosomiasis but did not know the mode of infection as only 29% knew how the parasite was transmitted to the human body. A majority (96%) of the respondents also knew of the signs and symptoms of schistosomiasis. A small proportion (10%) of the respondents had access to safe water for domestic use. Most (63%) schistosomiasis infections occurred during the wet season and a majority (69%) of the community members reported contact with domestic water activities more than four times a week. In conclusion, the level of knowledge on transmission of schistosomiasis was quite low and there was a significant association between the environmental factors and transmission of urinary schistosomiasis. There is need to mobilize and educate the community on the modes of transmission of schistosomiasis infection and concerned stakeholders should come up with strategies for ensuring that the community uses safe water for domestic use.

Biography

Email: arthursaitabau@yahoo.com