Epidemiological survey on paragonimiasis in Jincheng City

Abstract

Objective To investigate the epidemiological factors and tendency of paragonimiasis in Jinmiaopu township in Zezhou County and within the jurisdiction of Jincheng city, thus to provide the basis for prevention and treatment of paragonimiasis. Methods The rate of crabs infected with metacercaria of Paragonimus was investigated. The dogs were infected with metacercaria of Paragonimus, and specific antigen was prepared. Some villagers were tested with ELISA and skin test. Villagers'awareness of paragonimiasis and their experience of eating crabs were surveyed on site. Results The positive rate of first intermediate host Tricula was 0.35% (6/1 688 ), while it was 22.33% (67/300) for the second intermediate host( Potamon denticulatum). The positive rate of skin test in villagers was 7.97% (321/4 030). The percentage of children at school age was 87.54%. The positive rates of skin test and ELISA were significantly higher in men than that in women (P ＜ 0.05). The resident awareness rate of paragonimiasis was zero. Conclusions Paragonimiasis does exist in Jincheng city. The incidence of paragonimiasis is closely related to dietetic habit in local residents. Key words: Jincheng;  Paragonimiasis;  Epidemiological studies