REVIEW OF THE STATUS OF NEGLECTED TROPICAL DISEASES IN SOUTHERN NIGERIA

Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) are illnesses that are most common among underdeveloped communities in tropical and subtropical regions. They are sometimes referred to as 'disease of the poor' and are brought on by pathogens such as bacteria, helminth parasites, and fungi, most of which are spread by vectors. The most common NTDs in Nigeria include onchocerciasis, trachoma, Buruli ulcer, schistosomiasis, and soil-transmitted helminthiasis. They have significant prevalence rates throughout Africa, particularly Nigeria. A number of these NTDs, including soil-transmitted helminthiasis, Buruli ulcers, and urinogenital schistosomiasis, are common in Southern Nigeria as a result of a variety of environmental and socioeconomic factors, including the local climate, health literacy, and access to water and sanitation. This paper details the prevalence of NTDs in southern Nigeria and suggests methods for preventing the spread of these illnesses.