Clinical manifestations of lymphatic filariasis in bungudu lga, Zamfara state, Nigeria

This study was conducted to determine the prevalence of clinical manifestations of lymphatic filariasis in Bungudu Local Government Area, Zamfara State, Nigeria. Semi structured questionnaires containing volunteer’s socio-economic data were used to obtain descriptive information about the volunteers. An overall prevalence (11.11%) of clinical manifestations (Hydrocoele and lymphoedema) was recorded. However, Nahuche and Kwatarkwashi were found to have the highest prevalence (14.28%) of infection among the wards, while least prevalence (5.95%) of infection was recorded in Gada-Karakai ward. Gender and age related prevalence indicated that females had the highest prevalence (3.52%) than males with (2.95%). A Chi-squire analysis showed significant association between the disease and age (P<0.005). People within the age group of 70 years and above had the highest prevalence (31.25%), followed by age group 60-69 years and least prevalence (3.95%) was occurred in age group of 0-9 years. Hydrocoele was the common clinical manifestation observed in males individuals only, with overall prevalence of 11.47%. However, no breast elephantiasis was encountered during the study. The results of this study indicated that, the clinical manifestations of lymphatic filariasis are presence in the study area. Therefore, proper sanitation, public enlightenment, mass drug administration and treatment of infected individuals are urgently needed in the study area, if the elimination of the infection is to be achieved by the year 2020.