Sanitary facilities in primary schools in Jos, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Poor sanitary facilities in schools increase the risk of infections, a major cause of morbidity and mortality in developing countries. Methods: A cross sectional study of 66 primary schools (20 public and 46 private) in Jos North Local Government Area of Nigeria was conducted to ascertain the availability of sanitary facilities. The following parameters were assessed: availability and type of toilet facilities, toilet: pupil ratio, availability and source of water, refuse disposal facilities and facilities for hand-washing. Results: All 46 (100%) private schools and 6 (30%) 2 public schools had toilets (÷ =40.87 p<0.0001). Toilet: pupil ratio was >1:30 in 44 (85%) of the 52 schools with toilets, six public and 38 private schools 2 (÷ =1.23, p= 0.27). Thirty five (76%) private and 5 2 (25%) public schools had pipe - borne water (÷ = 15.23, p< 0.001). Sixty (91%) schools practiced open dumping of refuse. Soap/ detergent for hand-washing were available in 28 (61%) private and 1 (5%) public 2 school (÷ = 15.5, p< 0.0001). Conclusion: This study revealed poor sanitary facilities especially in public primary schools in Jos North Local Government Area. Attention should be paid to the school environment as an essential component of the school health programme to promote the health of the pupils and the community.