Public health experts have issued a critical advisory for individuals living in industrially burdened cities like Port Harcourt, urging a more frequent deworming schedule to combat the heightened risk of parasitic infestations. In a medical report recently released, physicians emphasized that while the general population is often advised to deworm once a year, those residing in environments with high levels of pollution and poor sanitation must double this frequency to at least twice annually.
The warning comes as health data highlights the unique vulnerability of residents in the Niger Delta hub, where oil-related pollution, soot, and inadequate waste management systems create a breeding ground for soil-transmitted helminths (STHs). Parasitic worms such as roundworms, whipworms, and hookworms are known to thrive in contaminated soil and water, colonizing the intestines of unsuspecting hosts for years. Experts warn that neglecting regular treatment allows these parasites to quietly “theft” nutrients, leading to chronic anemia, malnutrition, and a severely weakened immune system.
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Dr. Tuyi Mebawondu, a prominent public health expert, explained that in cities like Port Harcourt—where artisanal refining and environmental degradation are prevalent—the risk of reinfection is significantly higher. “Worms feed on the host’s tissues and blood. In adults, this causes chronic fatigue and reduced work productivity, while in pregnant women, it increases the risk of maternal mortality and low birth weight,” he stated. He further noted that children are the most at-risk group, as untreated infestations can lead to stunting and cognitive impairments that hinder school performance.
The World Health Organization (WHO) currently recommends mass drug administration in areas where the prevalence of parasitic worms exceeds 20%. In Nigeria, where approximately 80 million people live without improved sanitation facilities, the economic cost of poor hygiene is estimated at ₦455 billion annually. Physicians like Dr. Babatunde Adewumi have specifically pointed to the “silent” nature of these infections, noting that many adults carry heavy worm loads without showing obvious symptoms until significant internal damage—such as intestinal obstruction—occurs.
As Port Harcourt continues to grapple with the “soot” phenomenon and various environmental challenges, the medical community is calling for increased awareness among food handlers, farmers, and the general public. They recommend the use of broad-spectrum anthelmintics like Albendazole or Mebendazole, which are widely available and safe. Beyond medication, experts stress that maintaining rigorous personal hygiene, such as frequent handwashing and proper food preparation, remains the first line of defense against the “nutritional theft” of parasitic worms.
