Article
Epidemiology of tungiasis in Nigerian schoolchildren
Epidemiologie der Tungiasis bei nigerianischen Schulkindern
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Published: | June 2, 2010 |
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Objectives: To describe the epidemiology and severity of the parasitic skin disease tungiasis (jigger flea infestation) in Southwest Nigerian schoolchildren.
Methods: We performed a cross-sectional study in two schools of a semi-rural community located 60 km from Lagos city. Students were examined for the presence of embedded parasites and associated signs and symptoms.
Results: In total, 545 schoolchildren aged 3–16 years were included. Overall prevalence of tungiasis was 24,4% (133/545; 95% confidence interval: 20,9-28,2%). Prevalence in boys (30,6%) was statistically higher than in girls (17,6%; p<0,0001). The majority of infested schoolchildren (84,2%) presented with mild infestation (<5 embedded parasites). The maximum number per individual was 44 lesions. 56% (277/494) of lesions on the feet were localized on the toes in the periungueal area. Most lesions (63,2%; 312/494) were manipulated with a needle or a thorn. Most common signs were desquamation of skin (90,2%), erythema (54,9%), oedema (43,6%) and deformation of nails (40,6%). Only one case of persistent pain was observed.
Conclusions: Tungiasis is highly prevalent among schoolchildren in semi-rural Southwest Nigeria, and control programmes should focus on this age group. Schoolchildren can be used as sentinels to identify endemic communities.