Abstract

Background: Schistosomiasis and Salmonellosis are significant public health concerns, with Schistosoma haematobium potentially facilitating Salmonella infections. Understanding their co-occurrence is crucial for disease control in endemic regions. Aim: This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and co-infection of S. haematobium and Salmonella spp. among febrile patients in Doma, Nasarawa State, Nigeria. Methods: A total of 205 urine and 205 stool samples were collected from patients. Microscopy was used to detect S. haematobium eggs in urine, while Salmonella spp. were isolated from stool and urine samples using culture techniques. Statistical analysis assessed associations with demographics, risk factors, and symptoms. Results: S. haematobium was detected in 23 (11.2%) samples, with higher prevalence in males (14.7%) than females (8.1%), and the highest infection rate among ages 0–10 years (18.8%). The highest occurrence was in Ruttu (21.6%). Salmonella spp. were identified in 14 (6.8%) samples - 12 (5.8%) from stool and 2 (0.9%) from urine, with S. typhi (50%) being the most common serotype. Only 4 (1.95%) stool samples were co-infected with S. haematobium and Salmonella, but no statistically significant association was found (p>0.05). Schistosomiasis was significantly linked to hematuria, fever, and abdominal pain, while swimming and fishing increased infection risk.Conclusion: Although urinary Schistosomiasis and salmonellosis were present in the study population, no significant co-infection was observed. Awareness campaigns, improved water quality, and enhanced diagnostic tools are recommended to mitigate disease risks in endemic areas.

Key words: Schistosomiasis, Salmonellosis, haematobium, Infections, Awareness