ASSESSING THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN POPULATION DISPLACEMENT AND THE PREVALENCE OF PARASITIC INFECTIONS AMONG IDP HOST COMMUNITIES IN ADAMAWA, BORNO, AND YOBE STATES, NORTHEAST NIGERIA

Abstract

Armed conflicts in Northeast Nigeria, driven largely by Boko Haram and ISWAP insurgencies, have led to widespread population displacements, with millions of internally displaced persons (IDPs) settling in host communities. This study assessed the relationship between displacement rates and the prevalence of parasitic infections among IDP host communities in Adamawa, Borno, and Yobe States. A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed across 12 host communities, which had a combined population of 243,000, including 45,354 displaced persons. Structured questionnaires and laboratory investigations (stool, urine, and blood smears) were conducted among 1,094 participants. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and the Pearson correlation coefficient. Results revealed high displacement rates, ranging from 8.0% (Damare, Adamawa) to 28.0% (Dalori, Borno). The prevalence of parasitic infections ranged from 17.5% to 38.0%, with intestinal helminths as the most common. A strong positive correlation was found between displacement rate and parasitic prevalence (r = 0.81, p < 0.01), with the highest associations observed in Borno communities (Dalori r = 0.84, Bama r = 0.82). These findings suggest that increasing displacement intensity is significantly linked with higher parasitic burdens, largely due to overcrowding, poor sanitation, and inadequate health interventions. Integrated WASH, deworming, and malaria prevention programs are recommended to reduce morbidity in these vulnerable populations.