Seasonality in human hookworm infection in an endemic area of Nigeria, and its relationship to rainfall

Tropenmed Parasitol. 1980 Jun;31(2):201-8.

Abstract

Detailed parasitological and climatological examination of two rural communities in a hookworm endemic area of Anambra State Nigeria, has shown that infection with the parasite follows a clearly defined pattern. The results suggested a break in the transmission cycle of the parasite during the dry season December--February when only a few larvae (< 500 L3S) could be recovered from contaminated soils for not more than 4 days. Transmission of the parasite and the manifestation of the disease in infected individuals appeared to be a rainy season phenomenon. The implications of these findings are discussed in relation to possible control of the disease.

MeSH terms

  • Feces / parasitology
  • Hookworm Infections / epidemiology*
  • Humans
  • Nigeria
  • Rain*
  • Seasons*
  • Soil
  • Weather*

Substances

  • Soil