ABSTRACT
This study was aimed at assessing and evaluating the sanitation, hygiene, and health status of the residents of Ekosodin community in Ovia North-East Local Government Area of Edo State. The study sought to understand the level of sanitation and hygiene practices among the residents and investigate the socioeconomic factors influencing the choice of sanitation facilities. To achieve these objectives, a well-structured questionnaire was developed and administered to 150 randomly selected participants in Ekosodin Questionnaires were designed, comprising of several sections, including socio-demographics, core water, core sanitation, core hand hygiene, and health status and management questions. The questionnaire was employed as a tool to assess the availability, maintenance, and utilization of sanitation and hygiene facilities in the community. A total of 150 questionnaires were distributed, and all were successfully completed, resulting in an estimated sample size. Data collected from the questionnaires and analyzed SPSS version 22. The study revealed that Ekosodin residents (72.7%) relied on boreholes as their main water source. However, concerns regarding the taste and color of the water were noted. The study also found that sanitation facilities, such as toilets, were predominantly available, but there was a need for additional facilities, as indicated by 24.7% of respondents. Notably, 87.3% of participants reported the presence of staff employed to clean toilets. In terms of hand hygiene, the study found that 67.3% of participants reported the availability of soap and water in their premises. Moreover, 82.7% of respondents stated that they had separate containers for bathing and storing drinking water, contributing to improved hygiene practices. Regarding health status, the study provided insights into the prevalence of certain health conditions, with vomiting being reported by 66.7% of participants. Hospital/clinic facilities were the primary choice for medical treatment (74.7%), followed by herbal preparations (25.3%). In conclusion, this study sheds light on the sanitation, hygiene, and health status of Ekosodin community residents in Benin City, Edo State. The findings revealed the need for continuous efforts to improve sanitation and hygiene practices in Ekosodin community.
