Prevalence and Risk Factors Associated with Geohelminths and Intestinal Protozoa Infections among Pupils Aged 7–12 Years in Nyeri County, Kenya
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Date
2025-10
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Kenyatta University
Abstract
Helminths and protozoa are the two categories into which intestinal parasites fall. Schoolage children are highly susceptible to intestinal protozoa and soil-transmitted helminth
(STH) infections. Geo-helminth and intestinal protozoa infections remain a significant
public health burden in many parts of Kenya, especially among school-going children in
rural and peri-urban regions. Despite the implementation of Mass Drug Administration
(MDA) programs, the prevalence of these infections among school-aged children
continues to rise. The study aimed to determine the prevalence and associated risk factors
of STH and intestinal protozoa infections among school-going children in selected
primary schools in Konyu area. The Specific Objectives were: To determine the
prevalence of geohelminths and intestinal protozoa infection among school children; to
identify the risk factors associated with geohelminths and intestinal protozoa infection
among pupils, and To identify the environment related risk factors associated with
geohelminths and intestinal protozoa infection in Nyeri County. The Epidemiological
Triangle Model (ETM) guided this study. A cross-sectional study design was employed
involving 164 pupils from Kihuro, Gathuini, and Gikumbo primary schools. The study
was conducted in 3 primary schools which were purposively selected and the study
population comprised pupils in Grades 1 to 6, aged between 7 and 12 years. This study
employed a cluster random sampling technique to select participants from public primary.
Using the Cochran formula, a total number of 178 study subjects was calculated, though
only 164 pupils provided complete date. Pre-testing of the research instruments was
conducted in a school setting, to ensure consistency with the actual study environment.
The reliability of the study tools and laboratory procedures, quality control measures
were implemented and a coefficient of 0.84 was obtained. The data collection process
began with a community sensitization meeting supported by local leaders, followed by a
focus group discussion involving key stakeholders. Pupils and their guardians completed
structured questionnaires on hygiene and environmental risk factors before being given
labeled containers for stool sample collection. Samples were collected and analysed using
the Kato-Katz technique for helminths and the Formal Ether Concentration technique for
protozoa. Laboratory SOPs were rigorously followed, with quality checks to ensure
accuracy and confidentiality. Data were cleaned, coded, and analysed using SPSS version
28.0. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize participant characteristics, while Chisquare tests evaluated associations between risk factors and infection prevalence. The
prevalence of intestinal protozoa was 21.4%, 33%, and 20.4% in Kihuro, Gathuini, and
Gikumbo, respectively, while STH prevalence was 10.7%, 13%, and 13%. There was a
significant association between pupil and environmental risk factors and the prevalence
of infections (p < 0.05). Risk factors related to hygiene practices, sanitation, and
environmental exposure were significantly associated with infection rates, underscoring
the need for integrated interventions beyond routine deworming. The study concluded
that infection prevalence was high and significantly linked to personal and environmental
risk behaviours, leading to targeted recommendations for health education, hygiene
infrastructure, regular deworming, and improved WASH practices in schools.
Description
A Research Thesis Submitted in Partial Fulfilment of the Requirement for the Award of the Degree of Master of Public Health (Epidemiology and Disease Control) in the School of Health Sciences of Kenyatta University, October, 2025
Supervisor:
1.Harun Kimani
2.Martin Mutuku