Abstract
BACKGROUND: Schistosoma haematobium can infect and cause morbidity in pre-school age children (PSAC) and due to its gradual nature, often goes unnoticed in its early stages and can result in long-term irreversible consequences during their most productive years. This study aimed to determine the prevalence, intensity, and associated risk factors of S. haematobium infection among PSAC in Gambella, Ethiopia. METHOD: A cross-sectional study was conducted from July to August 2024 among 390 PSAC in four localities in Gambella, Ethiopia. Urine specimens were examined microscopically and with urinalysis reagent strips. Data on associated factors and socio-demographic characteristics were collected from the PSAC mothers/caregivers using a structured questionnaire. RESULT: The overall prevalence of S. haematobium infection was 16.7 %, of which 20 % (13/65) had heavy-intensity of infection. The prevalence of macro and microhematuria were 7.9 %, and 26.2 %, respectively. The prevalence of infection was significantly higher among PSAC who visited open water sources (90.8 %, P < 0.001), bathed in open water (89.2 %, P = 0.004), and urinated in open water (89.2 %, P = 0.004), as well as among residents of Abaro and Tagni villages (72.3 %, P < 0.001) and who had mothers with no formal education (81.5 %, P = 0.006). The odds of infection were higher among children who played or bathed in infested water (AOR: 2.9, CI: 1.0-8.1) and those living in Abaro village (AOR: 4.3, CI: 1.6-11.9) compared to those who did not engage in these behaviors or lived in other villages, respectively. CONCLUSION: The study showed that S. haematobium infection is prevalent among PSAC in Gambella region in Ethiopia, and contact with an open water while playing, bathing or urinating may increase the risk of acquiring infection with the parasite in this population group. These findings will contribute to a better understanding of the epidemiology of the disease among PSAC.