Intestinal parasitic infection among middle school boy students in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Background: Intestinal parasitic infection with protozoan and helminthic parasites are among the major health affairs especially in tropical and subtropical regions like Saudi Arabia. Globally, billions including school students are infected and millions suffer from symptoms and complications, while others are asymptomatic. Objective: This study was conducted to evaluate infections of middle school boys in Jeddah with intestinal parasites and the risk factors involved. Materials and Methods: Stool samples were collected from 265 boys from two middle schools in Jeddah. The samples were examined physically then by different techniques including: direct smears, sedimentation technique, two permanent staining methods and a rapid immuno-chromatographic assay. Information about each student and his family was collected in a questionnaire form related to lifestyle and socio-demographic data. Results: 46 students (17.35%) were infected with intestinal parasites including seven protozoa; mainly Blastocystis spp.Giardia lamblia, Endameba histolytica/dispar, and three helminth parasites including Hymenolepis nana, Ascaris lumbricoides and Trichuris trichiura. Conclusion: Several factors were associated with the intestinal parasitic infections, including age, proper washing of hands and cutting fingernails. There is a need for regular health education programs for students and their parents to increase awareness about intestinal parasites