Prevalence of Geohelminths in Garden Soil in Emohua Local Government Area in Nigeria

Introduction: Geohelminths are parasites which perform part of their life cycle in the soil, where eggs are embryonated and then larvae become viable, being in both stages able to infect their hosts, depending on the species and can affect humans.

Aim: This study was aimed to determine the prevalence of geohelminths in garden soil in Emohua Local Government Area, Rivers State in Nigeria.

Methods: Soil samples from the cultivated area of Rumuakunde and Isiodu district were selected for the study. 164 soil samples were examined for a period of April to May 2019. Geohelminth concentration technique was carried out using zinc sulphate floatation technique and under light microscopy. Data analysis was carried out using descriptive statistics and Chi square (X2) test.

Results: The overall prevalence rate of geohelminths found was 20(12.2%) out of 164 soil samples examined from the selected farm lands. Isiodu Farm F had the highest prevalence of 60% (12/20) followed by Rumuakunde Farm B, C and E of prevalence 20% (4/20), 15% (3/20) and 5% (1/20) respectively. This distribution among the farm lands were found to be statistically significant (p - <0.05). Hookworm laevae 70% (14/20) and Strongyloides stercoralis 30% (6/20) were geohelminths identified. Other geohelminths were not implicated.

Conclusion: This result of this study has shown that, geohelminths are more prevalent in Isiodu farm lands. The risk of contracting infection is high in these farm locations despite its low prevalence. There is need for zero tolerance to soil contamination.