Abstract

Introduction: In February 2024, following a community notification of 8 hematuria cases, a parasitological test of 4 urine samples from Sayeta village detected Schistosoma haematobium eggs. An investigation was conducted to confirm the existence of an outbreak, identify the source of infection and recommend control measures.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey in Sayeta village from September 2023 to February 2024 was conducted. Suspected case: Any person living in the Zaguiéta health area during the study period and presenting with blood in the urine (hematuria).Confirmed case: A suspected case confirmed in the laboratory by the presence of S. haematobium eggs in the urine from a urine pellet test between slide and coverslip after centrifugation of the urine. Questionnaires were administered to participants. Median age and interquartile range (IQR), ratios and proportions were calculated. Excel and SPSS were used to develop the linear list and analyse data. The Fisher Exact test and the prevalence ratio were calculated. The results were anonymously presented using tables, graphs, and maps.

Results: 82% of cases (n=114) were suspected with a prevalence of 3%. 31 of the 60 cases had confirmed urinary schistosomiasis. The median age of suspected cases was 12 years, with an IQR of 5 years. The male sex ratio was 7. Children aged 5 to 15 had a prevalence of haematuria of 7%, and majority (72%) were school children. More than 90% of suspected cases went fishing or swimming and did not use a latrine. These individuals were 2.65 and 2.29 times more likely to have haematuria (P<0.001).

Conclusion: An epidemic of urinary bilharziasis was confirmed in the village. Mass treatment of the population is needed, and measures to prevent and control bilharzia should be implemented using the ‘One Health’ approach.