Vol. 6 No. 1 (2023): The Reality of Women in Science

• Ekpa Promise Joel
  Department of Biological Sciences Benue State University, Makurdi
  




• Omudu Edward Agbo
  Department of Biological Sciences Benue State University, Makurdi
  

Filariasis-related clinical manifestations and questionnaire were usedrn to determine the prevalence of filariasis and investigate people’srn knowledge and beliefs about the disease. Out of the 730 subjectsrn examined, 266 had various clinical manifestations. Hydrocele wasrn recorded in 47(6.4%) of the cases, lymphedema in 129(17.7%),rn clinical manifestations associated with onchocerciasis such asrn dermatitis, skin rashes and itching and/or crawling sensationrn accounted for 90(11.6%) of the total subjects examined. Okenyarn community had the highest prevalence of clinical manifestationsrn 49(83.1%) and it is statistically significant when compared to othersrn (÷2= 2.76, df = 1, p > 0.05). A total of 1,536 respondents participatedrn in the questionnaire survey. Respondents’ Knowledge of the cause,rn mode of transmission and prevention of filariasis was generally poorrn and highly influenced by socio-cultural norms and beliefs. Genderrnrelated comparison on knowledge of the true cause of the diseasern showed a significant difference (÷2= 30.43, df =1, p = <0.05).rn 63(23.7%) infected respondents and 516(33.7%) affectedrn respondents implicated stepping on charm as the cause of filariasisrn (÷2= 0.47, df = 1, p > 0.05). The mode of transmission of filariasisrn was correctly attributed to mosquito/blackfly bites by 187(12.2%)rn affected respondents while none (0.0%) of the infected respondentsrn mentioned mosquito/blackfly bites as the vehicle of transmissionrn (÷2 = 2.47, df = 1, p > 0.05). 27.4% of the infected respondentsrn implicated stepping on charms as the transmission mechanism.rn There is need for in-depth enlightenment campaign on the true cause,rn mode of transmission and methods of preventing filariasis inrn endemic areas, as this would, help to ensure the success of preventionrn and control programmes.

Keywords: Filariasis, lymphedema, hydrocele, prevalence, community perception.