Assessment On The Awareness, Perception And Acceptability Of Mass Drug Administration With Praziquantel For The Control Of Schistosomiasis Among Students In Endemic Area; A Case Study Of Isikwuato LGA Metropolis

ABSTRACT

Schistosomiasis is one of the most widespread of all human parasitic diseases, ranking second only to malaria in terms of its socioeconomic and public health importance in tropical and subtropical areas. Despite all the efforts by the World Health Organisation to control morbidity and a possible elimination, the disease persists in endemic areas. This study was conducted in Isiukwuato LGA in Abia state, from September to November 2018 with the aim of assessing the awareness, perception and acceptability of mass drug administration with paraziquantel for the control of schistosomiasis among students. A total of 300 participants (one hundred from each clan) were chosen for this study. A structured questionnaire was used in collecting data on sociodemographic information, awareness and accessibility of MDA for schistosomiasis by the participants. Majority of the participants were females 154(51.3%). Only 263 (87.7%) were aware of the MDA programme for schistosomiasis and the major source of information about the MDA programme is radio 148(49.3%). Majority of the respondents said that the drug is effective 196(65.3%) and is highly acceptable 203(67.7%). Majority of the participants 284(94.7%) said that they are willing to participate in subsequent programme. In order to enhance praziquantel treatment coverage, careful consideration should be given to attitudes and practices such as prior or perceived adverse side effects and taste of praziquantel.