ASSESSMENT OF KNOWLEDGE ON PREVENTIVE STRATEGIES FOR TROPICAL DISEASES AMONG SECONDARY SCHOOL BIOLOGY STUDENTS IN ISI-UZO LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF ENUGU STATE

Abstract

This study assessed knowledge of preventive strategies for tropical diseases among secondary school Biology students in Isi-Uzo Local Government Area, Enugu State, Nigeria. Despite sustained public health efforts, diseases such as malaria, schistosomiasis, onchocerciasis, and soil-transmitted helminth infections remain endemic, highlighting the need for effective school-based health education. A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed, involving 150 SS2 Biology students selected from three public secondary schools through random sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire covering demographics, knowledge of preventive measures, misconceptions, perceptions, and sources of health information. Descriptive statistics (mean and standard deviation) were applied, with a criterion mean of 2.50. Findings indicated moderate awareness of general preventive practices, including environmental sanitation, personal hygiene, and safe water use. However, notable deficiencies were observed in knowledge of disease-specific interventions, particularly the use of insecticide-treated nets and awareness of prophylactic or vaccine-based measures where applicable. Misconceptions persisted, such as attributing tropical diseases to “bad air,” assuming prevention is unnecessary in the absence of symptoms, and overreliance on traditional remedies. Information sources included schools, families, social media, and traditional practitioners, with varying credibility. Despite these gaps, students demonstrated positive attitudes toward adopting preventive behaviors and engaging in health-promotion activities. The study concludes that although baseline knowledge exists, targeted, evidence-based educational interventions are required. It recommends strengthening curriculum content, promoting experiential learning, enhancing teacher capacity, and fostering collaboration between the education and health sectors to improve disease prevention outcomes.