Impact of Praziquantel on Schistosoma mansoni Infection Rates and Associated Factors among Primary School Children in Teda, Koladiba, and Maksegnit Towns, Northwest Ethiopia

Background Schistosoma mansoni is a significant public health concern worldwide, particularly affecting schoolchildren. The Ethiopian Ministry of Health promotes school-based single-dose praziquantel. However, this extensive implementation of mass drug administration might lead to selective drug resistance. Therefore, periodic assessment of the therapeutic efficacy of praziquantel is vital. Thus, we aimed to evaluate the impact of praziquantel on S. mansoni infection rates and associated factors among Primary School Children in Teda, Koladiba, and Maksegnit towns, Northwest Ethiopia. Methods A Multicenter cross-sectional study design was conducted in Teda, Koladiba, and Maksegnit Primary Schools from May to July 2024. A total of 657 schoolchildren were selected for the study. Approximately 2 grams of stool samples were collected and examined using the Kato-Katz technique. Children positive for S. mansoni received a single dose of praziquantel, and cure and egg-reduction rates were assessed within 21 days of treatment. The data were analyzed using SPSS. Results Out of 657 screened children, 10.5% (69/657) were infected with S. mansoni , with a higher prevalence among males and older children (56.6%). Sixty-three children were evaluated for praziquantel efficacy, showing a cure rate of 92.1% and an egg reduction rate of 90.1%. Most of the infections were of light intensity. Conclusion The prevalence of S. mansoni among schoolchildren in Teda, Koladiba, and Maksegnit was moderately endemic. The therapeutic efficacy of a single dose of praziquantel was satisfactory. However, health education is crucial for increasing awareness among children to avoid washing and swimming in open freshwater bodies.