The Influence of Inadequate Handling Conditions on the Prevalence of Parasites in Commonly Consumed Fluted Pumpkin Leaves (<i>Telfairia occidentalis</i>) in Delta State, Nigeria

Abstract

Vegetables are crucial for a healthy diet; however, when not washed properly, they can act as carriers of protozoa cysts and helminth eggs/larvae, posing a risk of transmission. The study aimed to determine the prevalence of parasitic contamination of fluted pumpkin promoted by inadequate handling conditions in Delta State, Nigeria. Samples of Telfairia occidentalis (fluted pumpkin vegetables) were collected from Effurun town and Otokutu local markets in washed and unwashed conditions and examined for parasitic contamination. An interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to obtain information on the socio-economic factors associated with parasitic contaminations on vegetables. The vegetable samples were examined using the simple sedimentation concentration method. The educational status of the vendors was ascertained, and 75% of the vendors had secondary school education, while 25% had primary school education. Four hundred seventyeight parasitic contaminants were recovered from the 48 vegetables samples. The species and stages of parasites detected were Trichuris spp, Moniezia spp, Enterobius vermicularis, Ascaris lumbricoides, Strongyloides spp, Hookworm eggs, Strongyle eggs Strongyloides stercoralis larvae, Schistostoma spp, Platynosomum fastosum and Eimeria spp. Fifty per cent (50%) of the produce was not washed, while 50% of the produce was washed before displaying by the retailers. The result from the paired t-test revealed a significant difference (p<0.05) in total parasitic contamination between washed and unwashed vegetable samples from both Effurun and Otokutu markets. This study showed that handling conditions of washing and the environment where vegetables are sold can influence the amount of parasitic load. Therefore, adequate washing and proper handling of raw edible vegetables before consumption are recommended. The government must create awareness and educate vegetable vendors about the importance of proper handling and hygiene, as they can play a major role in mitigating public health issues.