Epidemiology of paragonimiasis in Cross River basin, Nigeria: prevalence and intensity of infection due to Paragonimus uterobilateralis in Yakurr local government area

Prevalence and intensity of paragonimiasis among inhabitants of the Yakurr Local Government Area in the Cross River basin of Nigeria is reported. Diagnosis was based on a single sample detection of eggs of Paragonimus in 5 ml of sputum. 12.27% out of 880 subjects were infected. The infections were due to Paragonimus uterobilateralis. Prevalence of the infection increased with age, up to a peak prevalence of 23.75% (19 out of 108) among subjects between the ages of 17–22 y old. Thereafter, it declined progressively with increase in age to much lower values such that by the age of 53–58 y old, infection had fallen by more than 75%. Prevalence of the infection was significantly higher among females, 13.80% (58 out of 108), than males 11.36% (50 out of 108) (P < 0.009). Intensity of infection (eggs/5 ml sputum) ranged from 12–123 eggs/5 ml sputum, with subjects between the ages of 17–22 y old being the most heavily infected group. Prevalence and intensity of the infection were positively correlated (P < 0.497). The need for control measures to reduce human suffering due to infections in the area, particularly among women and children is emphasized.