Journal of Disease and Global Health

Soil-transmitted helminths (STHs) remain a significant public health concern among children in Sub-Saharan Africa and other developing regions like Nigeria, including Port Harcourt, largely due to factors such as poverty, inadequate sanitation, poor hygiene, low literacy levels, ecosystem variability, and overcrowding.  This study investigated the prevalence of STHs among school-aged children in the Mile III area of the Port Harcourt Metropolis. Demographic data were obtained through a structured questionnaire, while stool samples were collected and examined using standard parasitological techniques. A total of 109 stool samples were analyzed, and various STHs were recovered. Ascaris lumbricoides was the most prevalent (67%), followed by Necator americanus (19%), Trichuris trichiura (11%), and Ancylostoma duodenale (3%). Overall, STH infection occurred in 18.3% of the study population. Females had a higher prevalence (17%) compared to males (10%), and infection was most common among children aged 3–10 years. The identified risk factors, such as poverty, poor sanitation, inadequate hygiene, low literacy, environmental influences, and overcrowding, were strongly linked to STH transmission in the area. To reduce the burden of STHs, the study recommends improved sanitation and hygiene practices, routine deworming of school children, health education programs, and prompt treatment of infected individuals.