Comparative Survey of Geohelminth Parasites in Soils of Some Schools and Dumpsites in Akure South Metropolis, Nigeria

Background and Objective: Geohelminths, or soil-transmitted helminths (STHs), are a significant public health concern in Nigeria, particularly in areas with poor sanitation and inadequate waste management. School-aged children and waste handlers are at higher risk due to frequent contact with contaminated soil. This study aimed to assess and compare the prevalence and distribution of geohelminths in soils from selected primary schools and major dumpsites in Akure Metropolis, Ondo State, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: A total of ninety-nine soil samples were collected, including fifty-four from six primary schools (playgrounds, toilet areas, and random locations) and forty-five from three major dumpsites. Samples were analyzed using sedimentation, flotation, and Baermann techniques to recover and microscopically identify geohelminth eggs and larvae. Soil sample data were analyzed using Microsoft Excel (2013) and IBM SPSS v22.0, applying descriptive statistics and inferential tests (ANOVA with Duncan’s post hoc and Chi-square), with significance set at p<0.05. Results: Overall, 88.9% of school soil samples and 82.2% of dumpsite samples were positive for at least one geohelminth species. Public schools showed higher contamination (96.3%) compared to private schools (81.5%), with playgrounds being the most contaminated site (100%). The identified parasites included Strongyloides stercoralis, hookworms, Ascaris lumbricoides, Trichuris trichiura, and Bunostomum spp., with significant variations across sampling sites (p<0.05). Conclusion: The high level of soil contamination poses serious health risks, particularly to schoolchildren and waste handlers. To reduce transmission, interventions such as improved sanitation, effective waste management, routine deworming, health education, and strict hygiene enforcement are recommended.