Nationwide survey reveals high prevalence of schistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminthiasis in Rwanda, highlighting key risk factors for intervention strategies.
Key Points
Overall prevalence of soil-transmitted helminthiasis was 38.7%, with adults most affected at 46.1%.
Prevalence for Ascaris lumbricoides reached 27.0%, while schistosomiasis showed a 1.7% rate by Kato-Katz and 27.2% by POC-CCA.
Mixed-effects logistic regression identified significant risk factors linked to educational level and proximity to water sources.
These findings underline the need for expanded mass drug administration and improved sanitation to tackle public health challenges in Rwanda.