Dracunculiasis: age and sex as important biological risk factors influencing the transmission in Akoko, Ondo State, Nigeria

Abstract

Transmission of dracunculiasis (guinea worm disease) with respect to age and sex was studied in Akoko, from 1995 to 1997. The overall infection rates in males subjects in Akoko area for 1995, 1996 and 1997 were 57.2%, 42.5% and 19.9%, while females had 57.8%; 30.4% and 18.8% respectively. There was a significant (P<0.05) reduction in the infection rates between males and females from 1995 – 1996; 1996 – 1997 and 1997 – 1998 (post survey). However, the observed differences between male and females subjects was not significant (P>0.05). The annual prevalence of infection in relation to age and sex in each village were also included. The highest infection rate was recorded in the 30 – 39 age cohort and the lowest infection rate in 0 – 9 age cohort.
Key words: Guinea worm diseases/Dracunculiasis, Age, Sex, Prevalence, Transmission, Akoko