Factors associated with urogenital schistosomiasis in children in high-prevalence health posts in Tambacounda Department, Senegal

Introduction: The prevalence of urogenital schistosomiasis remains very high (≥50%) in three health posts in the Tambacounda Department, despite mass treatment with Praziquantel among children aged 5–14 years. This study aims to determine the prevalence of urogenital schistosomiasis in high-endemicity health posts, to identify associated environmental and behavioral factors, and to assess the acceptability of recommended preventive measures among caregivers of children aged 1 to 10 years. Methods: We conducted a descriptive analytical study in August 2024. The target population consisted of mothers or guardians of children aged 1 to 10 years. Data were collected using Kobo Toolbox and analyzed with R 4.4.1. Binary logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with urogenital schistosomiasis. Results: The majority (82.93%) of mothers/guardians accepted preventive measures, while 14.63% of children presented with hematuria. Among children aged 5–10 years, 91.53% received treatment. Urine dipstick positivity was 35.6%, and 26.34% were carriers of Schistosoma haematobium (sh) eggs. The prevalence of urogenital schistosomiasis was 34.75% in children aged 5–10 years compared to 14.94% in those aged 1–5 years. Statistically significant associated factors included: residence in Tambacounda district (aOR=18.99, 95%CI :3.66–98.53; p <0.001), mothers/guardians knowledge of disease symptoms (aOR = 8.71, 95%CI : 2.56–29.58; p = 0.01), history of hematuria (aOR = 10.66, 95% CI : 2.97–45.54; p < 0.001), presence of hematuria at the time of the survey (aOR = 17.38, 95% CI : 1.28–235; p = 0.014) and positive urine dipstick results (aOR = 199, 95% CI: 27.44–723; p < 0.001). Conclusion: Urogenital schistosomiasis prevalence remains high in three health posts in Tambacounda despite mass treatment in 5–15-year-old children. We recommend strengthening health education for mothers/guardians, systematic screening via urine dipsticks and extending mass treatment to include children aged 1–4 years.