Urinary Schistosomiasis in Remote Communities of Kouh-Est and Grande Sido in Southern Chad

Schistosomiasis, the world's second-largest parasitic endemic, is caused by trematodes of the genus Schistosoma. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of urinary schistosomiasis in Kouh-Est and Grande Sido in southern Chad. A survey was conducted in 18 villages, including sedentary and nomadic populations, involving 783 participants. PCR and DNA sequencing were performed to identify and characterize Schistosoma species. DNA for diagnostic confirmation, epidemiological studies, and understanding genetic diversity. The overall prevalence of Schistosoma haematobium was 31.54%. In Kouh-Est, the prevalence was 60,72% and in Grande Sido, it was 39.27% This prevalence was higher in the age groups 11-15 years (19.83%) and 16-20 years (10.52%). The difference between distribution rates and age groups was statistically significant (P<0.05). The prevalence was higher among uneducated individuals (50%), with primary and secondary education levels at 20%, and religious education at 10%. Schistosomiasis is present in Kouh-Est and Grande Sido. Mass drug administration, health education, and community mobilization are crucial strategies to significantly reduce the prevalence of schistosomiasis in these communities.