Schistosomiasis Transmission in High Altitude Lakes of Uganda
Author Information
Author(s): John Rubaihayo, Ezekiel Moghusu, Philbert Clouds, Andrew Abaasa
Primary Institution: Mountains of the Moon University
Hypothesis
Can schistosomiasis transmission occur at altitudes higher than 1,400 m in Uganda?
Conclusion
Schistosomiasis transmission can occur at altitudes higher than previously thought, posing a risk to communities using crater lakes for water.
Supporting Evidence
- The overall prevalence of Schistosoma mansoni infection was 27.8% among the pupils studied.
- 84.6% of the crater lakes studied were found to be infective.
- Prevalence was highest in the age group 12-14 years at 49.5%.
- The study found significant associations between altitude, water source, and infection rates.
Takeaway
This study found that kids using water from high-altitude lakes in Uganda can get a disease called schistosomiasis, which was thought to only happen at lower altitudes.
Methodology
An epidemiological survey was conducted among school children around 13 high altitude crater lakes, collecting stool samples and demographic data.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to reliance on self-reported awareness and knowledge of the disease.
Limitations
The study could not establish temporal and spatial variability of abiotic factors affecting transmission.
Participant Demographics
Primary school pupils aged 6-18 years from communities around high altitude crater lakes.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Confidence Interval
95% CI: 19.7–33.0%
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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