Prevalence of Superficial Mycoses Affecting the Feet of Some Primary Schools Pupils in Jos Metropolis

Abstract

An investigation was carried out to determine the prevalence of superficial mycoses (Athlete's foot) affecting the feet of some primary schools pupils in Jos metropolis. About 50 pupils each from three locations (Primary Schools) were examined and samples (scrapings) from the feet were collected and analysed by a direct microscopy or direct wet preparation in the Medical laboratory of National Veterinary Research Institute (NVRI) Vom Plateau State. The result showed that only 31.3% were positive while 68.7% were negative out of the 150 pupils screened for superficial mycoses. The result of the distribution of the disease according to location showed that Barkin Acha Gyel had the highest number of infected pupils of 52.0% while the least is University of Jos primary school with 10.0%. The result of the distribution of the superficial mycoses by sex showed that the male pupils had the highest percentage of infection of 45.6% while the female counterpart had 15.5%. The result of the distribution of the disease by age showed that age group 11-15 years had the highest distribution of 57.1% while the least was 3-5 years of 2.0%. The study further revealed that Tinea pedis (Athlete's foot) was high and the most prevalent dermatophytes causing superficial mycoses in the feet of the primary school children which have been known to impact negatively on health and wellbeing of children. Thus control measures should target this vulnerable group to reduce its prevalence in the subsequent research.