Prevalence of Intestinal Parasites and Plasmodium Co-Infection in Two Wards of Hong Local Government Area, Adamawa State, Nigeria

Background and Objective: Co-infection with soil-transmitted helminths (STHs) and Plasmodium falciparum poses significant health risks, including anaemia and increased mortality. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of STHs and P. falciparum among nomadic settlements in two selected wards of Hong Local Government Area, Adamawa State, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: A prospective cross-sectional study was conducted in Daksiri and Thilband wards. Stool and blood samples were collected from 200 participants and screened for intestinal parasites and P. falciparum using standard laboratory techniques. Structured questionnaires assessed participants’ knowledge and practices regarding intestinal parasites and malaria. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 36.0. Results: Of the 200 participants, 35.5% were infected with at least one intestinal parasite, while 25.5% tested positive for P. falciparum. Entamoeba histolytica was the most prevalent intestinal parasite (7.6%), and Strongyloides stercoralis was the least common (1.2%). The 11-20 years age group had the highest prevalence for both intestinal parasites (14%) and P. falciparum (7%), whereas the ≥41 years age group had the lowest prevalence (intestinal parasites: 3.5%; P. falciparum: 1.5%). Males exhibited higher infection rates than females for both intestinal parasites (40% vs. 35%) and P. falciparum (28.4% vs. 22.4%), with statistical significance observed for intestinal parasites (p<0.05). Geographically, Thilbang ward recorded the highest intestinal parasite prevalence (41%), while Daksiri ward had the highest P. falciparum prevalence (31%). Knowledge and practices varied: 69% of participants were aware of intestinal worms, 75% used well water, 93% used pit latrines, and 83.5% reported using insecticide-treated nets. Conclusion: The high prevalence of STHs and P. falciparum co-infection highlights the need for targeted interventions, including health education, improved sanitation, and treatment of infected individuals, to reduce associated morbidity and prevent complications.