AWARENESS OF PREVENTIVE MEASURES AGAINST VULVOVAGINAL CANDIDIASIS AMONG FEMALE STUDENTS IN UNIVERSITY OF NIGERIA SECONDARY SCHOOL, NSUKKA, ENUGU STATE

Abstract

This study was carried out to ascertain the level of awareness of the preventive measures against vulvovaginal candidiasis among female senior secondary school students in University of Nigeria Secondary School, Nsukka, Enugu State. The study adopted the descriptive design. Sample was 200A semi-structured self administered questionnaire was used to elicit information from the participants on the result showed major source of information was class teachers. A good number of the students 140 (70%) correctly indicated that vulvovaginal candidiasis is caused by Candida albicans and other Candida species. 150 (75%), 147 (73.3%) and 125(62.5%) confirmed that unclean toilets, sexual intercourse and sharing of underwear could predispose females to this infection. On the preventive measures 140 (70%) knew that the use of cotton pants and tights were measures aimed at preventing the infection when compared to nylon and synthetic underwear, 100% agreed that a good personal and environmental hygiene were the best preventive measures. In conclusion, the study showed that the students had a high level of awareness which was as a result of exposure to knowledge about vulvovaginal candidiasis by school teachers.