Knowledge attitudes and practices in relation to schistosomiasis in a rural community

A knowledge attitudes and practices survey of sanitation, water supplies and schistosomiasis was carried out in a rural schistosomiasis endemic area of Zimbabwe. Questionnaires were administered to 349 households. No latrines were present in 61% of households and information on use, likes and dislikes was collected. Most drinking water was collected from sources presenting no risk of schistosomiasis whereas most washing activities were carried out at sites presenting such a risk. Schistosomiasis was thought to be a problem in the community by over 50% of households and 79% gave haematuria as a symptom of the disease. There was a correlation between the washing site and the reported presence of schistosomiasis in the family.