Health Education on Worm Disease (Ascariasis) for Elementary School Students

Umbu Nggiku Njakatara; Melkisedek Landi; Maria Kareri Hara; Umbu Putal Abselian; Tatu Ridja; Arnold Liberto Mouwlaka

Authors

Umbu Nggiku Njakatara Poltekkes Kemenkes Kupang
Melkisedek Landi Poltekkes Kemenkes Kupang
Maria Kareri Hara Poltekkes Kemenkes Kupang
Umbu Putal Abselian Poltekkes Kemenkes Kupang
Tatu Ridja RHEC Academy International Sumba
Arnold Liberto Mouwlaka Dinas Kesehatan Sumba Timur Puskesmas Kambaniru

Keywords:

Ascariasis, health education , elementary school students

Abstract

Ascariasis is an infectious disease caused by the Ascaris lumbricoides worm and remains a public health problem, especially among elementary school-aged children. Lack of clean and healthy living practices, poor handwashing, and inadequate environmental sanitation are the main risk factors for worm infections. This community service activity aims to increase students' knowledge about ascariasis, its transmission methods, symptoms, prevention, and the importance of maintaining personal hygiene. The activity was held at Malumbi Elementary School in September 2022 with 50 participants. The methods used included health education, educational media screenings, demonstrations of proper handwashing, interactive discussions, and evaluation through pre- and post-tests. Analysis was conducted descriptively using the percentage increase in participants' knowledge. The results showed an average increase in students' knowledge from 56.4% in the pre-test to 89.8% in the post-test. The percentage increase in knowledge reached 33.4 percent. Students demonstrated increased understanding, particularly regarding the transmission process of worm infections. Health education activities have proven effective in increasing the knowledge of ascariasis among elementary school students at Malumbi. Sustainable education programs supported by schools, parents, and local health workers are needed to prevent worm infections in school-aged children.

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