Precision mapping of schistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminthiasis among school-age children: Targeting interventions in western Kenya.

A precision mapping study of schistosomiasis (SCH) and soil-transmitted helminthiasis (STH) was conducted in four counties in western Kenya—Kakamega, Bungoma, Trans Nzoia, and Vihiga—using World Health Organization guidelines at the Ward level to better target interventions. Cross-sectional surveys among school-age children revealed low overall prevalence of SCH (3.2%) and STH (7.6%), with S. mansoni and A. lumbricoides being the most common infections. Most infections were of light intensity, and prevalence varied significantly across counties. Mapping at the Ward level, compared to sub-County level, reduced the number of Wards requiring mass drug administration (MDA) by 14.5% for SCH and 0.8% for STH, highlighting the value of precision mapping in optimizing resource allocation and improving disease control strategies.

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