Ether Concentration Technique Research Articles

Prevalence of Intestinal Parasites and Associated Factors Among Public Primary Second-Cycle Schoolchildren in Debre Markos Town, Northwest Ethiopia: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Intestinal parasitic infection is a common disease that causes significant morbidity and mortality in developing countries, including Ethiopia. The burden of intestinal parasites is worse in schoolchildren, which leads to absenteeism from school, lower cognitive ability, affects academic performance, and causes malnutrition and anemia. While many studies have been reported, there is a paucity of published data in Debre Markos. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the prevalence of intestinal parasites and associated factors among public primary second-cycle schoolchildren in Debre Markos Town, Northwest Ethiopia. A school-based cross-sectional study was conducted among three selected public primary second-cycle schools in Debre Markos town from May 1 to 30, 2022. Study participants were selected by using random and systematic sampling techniques with proportional allocation to each grade. Data were collected using semi-structured questionnaires. A single stool specimen was collected from the study participants and processed using direct wet mount and formol ether concentration technique. Binary logistic regression models were applied to assess the association between independent and outcome variables at a 95% confidence level. A total of 343 students were included in the study. The overall prevalence of intestinal parasites was 12% (41/343) with a predominance of hookworms (5.2%, 18/343), followed by Ascaris lumbricoides 2.3% (8/343), Entamoeba histolytica/dispar 1.2% (4/343), Hymenolepis nana 0.9% (3/343), Strongyloides stercoralis 0.9% (3/343), Giardia lamblia 0.9% (3/343), and Trichuris trichiura 0.6% (2/343). The habit of open-field defecation (AOR, 95% CI; 2.43 [1.16-5.09]), not using soap to wash hands (AOR, 95% CI; 2.93 [1.33-6.42]), and not wearing closed shoes (AOR, 95% CI; 3.12 [1.19-8.23]) were factors significantly associated with the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection. The prevalence of intestinal parasites was comparatively low in the study area. Open-field defecation, not using soap to wash hands, and not wearing closed shoes were identified as independent predictors.

Detection and Transmission Dynamics of Intestinal Schistosomiasis among Primary School Pupils in Tharaka Nithi County in the Mt. Kenya Highlands

Emerging infections cause considerable public health problems to humanity worldwide. The presence of Biomphalaria spp vector snails, the compatibility of the snails with schistosomes, and the prevalence of intestinal schistosomiasis infection in school-going children were determined. The study sought to determine the presence and transmission dynamics of schistosomiasis in Tharaka Nithi, an emerging schistosomiasis transmission focus in the Mt. Kenya highlands. The Epidemiological Triangle Model (ETM), which sheds light on the transmission of infectious diseases, served as the foundation for this study. A cross-sectional study design was used. The study targeted 178 students in grades 1–8 from the two primary schools in Tharaka Nithi located along the catchment area of Mukothima and Thanantu rivers. The number of study participants was determined using the Cochran formula. Study participants were selected randomly from the class register while ensuring equal numbers of boys and girls to avoid bias in results. The stool samples collected from the participants were processed using Kato Katz's quantitative screening technique for helminths and formal ether concentration technique for intestinal protozoa. Biomphalaria snails were collected and identified based on morphology. Snails were also bred and experimentally infected with a laboratory strain of Schistosoma mansoni and passed to the F5 generation to check the compatibility with the Schistosoma mansoni parasite. The overall mean snail parasite infection rate was 23.51% with a positivity of 19.38% in Mukothima River compared to 27.64% in Thanantu River. Although none of the field sampled snails were found infected with S. mansoni, pupils tested were found to be infected with the parasite with a positivity rate of 15.5%. Other parasites detected included Ascaris lumbricoides with a prevalence rate of 9.23% and Entamoeba histolytica with a prevalence of 8.48%. Results from the snail susceptibility experiment showed that the snails supported the development of S. mansoni to full patency, indicating the potential to support the schistosomiasis transmission cycle. Despite not finding any field-sampled snails infected with S. mansoni, the demonstrated compatibility of the snails with the parasite and the finding of infection in school children suggests that transmission is a possibility. Schistosomiasis prevention strategies including deworming programs, school and community environment sanitation, and latrines provision are highly recommended to prevent further spread of the disease.

Occurrence of Cryptosporidium Oocysts in Faeces, Milk and Water Sources in Sedentary Fulani Herds in Selected Local Government Areas of Kaduna State, Nigeria

Abstract Cryptosporidiosis is a neglected tropical zoonotic disease, commonly associated with a diarrhoea, caused by a protozoan parasite of the genus Cryptosporidium. The aim of this study was to determine the occurrence of Cryptosporidium oocysts in faeces, milk, and water sources, and its associated risk factors in sedentary Fulani herds. Seven hundred and fifty faecal samples (240, 180, 240 and 90 from cattle, sheep, goats and dogs, respectively), and 120 samples each, of milk and water were collected for this study. Faecal samples were concentrated by formol ether concentration technique, then stained using Modified Ziehl Neelsen staining method, to detect Cryptosporidium oocysts. Cryptosporidium oocysts in milk and water samples were also concentrated and stained with same stain. The prevalence of Cryptosporidium oocysts in (cattle, dog, sheep and goat faeces were 18.3 %, 15.6 %, 13.9 % and 4.2 %, respectively.), Significantly higher prevalence was observed in calves ≤ 1 year (P = 0.002), female cattle (P = 0.007) and animals with poor body condition (P < 0.001) than in the other groups. Goats with poor body condition scores had significantly higher prevalence (P = 0.008) than other groups while dogs ≤ 6 months of age also had significantly higher prevalence (P = 0.03) than older dogs. The prevalence of Cryptosporidium oocysts in bulk cow milk was 11.7 % while a prevalence of 13.3 % was observed in the water bodies sampled. Hence the findings of this study are of great public health significance, therefore, inhabitants of these LGAs should be informed and educated on the need for improvement of sanitary measures during the course of milking these animals, and the need for adequate pasteurization, of milk before consumption.

Prevalence of Entamoeba histolytica/dispar and Giardia lamblia infections and their associated factors among schoolchildren in the Amhara region, Northwest Ethiopia

Globally, intestinal protozoa E. histolytica/dispar and Giardia lamblia are the cause of amoebiasis and giardiasis, respectively. Despite their important medical importance and common occurrence in Ethiopia, they are minimally addressed in terms of their prevalence, sensitive diagnostic methods, and associated risk factors. Infections with E. histolytica/dispar and G. lamblia are often misdiagnosed and underreported in impoverished countries. Thus, the purpose of this study was to ascertain the prevalence of Giardia lamblia and E. histolytica/dispar infections as well as related variables among schoolchildren in the Amhara region. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 844 schoolchildren in the Amhara region from April to December 2019. A stool sample was collected from each study participant and processed via the formol ether concentration technique (FECT) and spontaneous tube sedimentation techniques (STST). Data were entered in EpiData and analysed by SPSS statistical software. The prevalence of E. histolytica and G. lamblia infections using each diagnostic method and composite reference was determined by descriptive statistics. The association of risk factors with E. histolytica/dispar and G. lamblia infections was analysed by logistic regression and variables with p < 0.05 were considered to have statistical significance. From the total, 243 (28.8%) schoolchildren were found to be infected by at least one of E. histolytica/dispar or G. lamblia. The prevalence of E. histolytica/dispar and G. lamblia infections was 201 (23.8%) and 62 (7.3%), respectively. The co-infection prevalence with both E. histolytica/dispar and G. lamblia was 22 (2.6%). The sensitivity (78.6%) and negative predictive value of STST (19.6%) were higher than FECT sensitivity (65.4%) and negative predictive value (13.1%). Children in 10–14 years of age (AOR = 1.66;95%CI: 1.16–2.38), lived in the rural (AOR = 1.97;95%CI: 1.12–3.49), used latrine improperly (AOR = 1.49;95%CI: 1.04–2.13), did not wash hands before meal (AOR = 2.10; 95%CI:1.08–4.10), and after latrine (AOR = 1.51;95%CI: 1.05–2.19), ate unwashed raw vegetables (AOR = 1.85;95%CI:1.26–2.70), and played with soil (AOR = 1.48;95%CI:1.06–2.06) were associated with E. histolytica/dispar and G. lamblia infection. These findings revealed high prevalence of E. histolytica/dispar and G. lamblia infections was high in the Amhara region. Therefore, proper implementation of water, sanitation and hygiene should be advocated at the community and school levels to mitigate the disease burden.

Prevalence and Distribution of Geo-Helminths and Intestinal Protozoa Infections among School-Going Children in Nyeri County, Kenya

The goal of this study was to determine how common and widespread geo-helminths, STH, and intestinal protozoa infections are in the Mathira constituency of Nyeri County, Kenya. The study aimed to determine the prevalence of geohelminths and intestinal protozoa, as well as the distribution of STH and intestinal protozoa infections in school-going children. Cochran formulae guided the design of a cross-sectional study on a population of 174 children, yielding complete data for 164 of them. The social determinants of the health model guided this study. A structured questionnaire was applied to data collection to establish the demographic characteristics of the study participants in the identified three primary schools in the study site. They were examined for STH and protozoa infections by the quantitative Kato-Katz technique for STH and formal ether concentration techniques for intestinal protozoa infection. Statistical analysis was done using R Studio and the risk ratio. Findings showed that of the 56 samples examined in Kihuro primary school, 12 (21.4%) and 6 (10.7%) were positive for protozoan and STH infections. Similarly, 33% of the children in Gathuini primary school were found to be positive for protozoan infections, while 13% were infected with STH. In Gikumbo primary school, 20.4% of the children were infected with protozoan parasites, compared to 13% of STH infections. However, there was a variation in infection prevalence based on gender across the three selected sites. Children in Kihuro primary school were 0.12 times more at risk of STH infection compared to 0.3 times more at risk of protozoa infections. The intestinal protozoa infection was higher than that for the geohelminths infection in Gathuini primary school. Children in Gathuini primary school were 0.12 times more at risk of STH infection compared to 0.46 times more at risk of protozoa infections. Children in Gikumbo primary school were 0.1 times at risk of STH infection compared to 0.26 times at risk of protozoa infections, implying that they were more prone to protozoan infections than STH infections. The study concluded that the age and gender of students had no statistical significance. The study recommended that government institutions and non-governmental organizations should intervene and undertake adequate control measures against geo-helminth parasites by making sure there is access to safe water and improved sanitation in the area. Moreover, health education programs should be intensified in the area and beyond to raise awareness of geo-helminths and intestinal protozoa infection, means of transmission and control measures, and the improvement of hygiene practices for both children and parents.

Prevalence of Intestinal Parasitic Infections and Associated Factors among Presumptive Pulmonary Tuberculosis Patients at Debre Tabor Referral Hospital, South Gondar, Northwest Ethiopia: A Cross-Sectional Study.

In developing countries, intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) and tuberculosis (TB) coinfections have been perceived to be high. The geographic distributions of helminths and TB overlap substantially. Parasitic infections affect the outcome of TB by changing the cell-mediated immune response to a humoral response, while Mycobacterium infection favors the immune escape of helminths. There are limited studies on the epidemiology of intestinal parasites among presumptive pulmonary TB (PTB) patients in Ethiopia. Therefore, this study is aimed at determining the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections and associated factors among patients with presumptive pulmonary tuberculosis at Debre Tabor Referral Hospital. A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted from March to June 2021. The sociodemographic data and associated factors were collected using a structured questionnaire, and stool samples were collected by convenient sampling technique and processed for the detection of intestinal parasites using a direct wet mount saline preparation and formal ether concentration technique. The data was coded, cleaned, and analyzed by SPSS version 23. Bivariate and multivariable analyses were conducted to determine an adjusted odds ratio (AOR). p value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. The overall prevalence of intestinal parasitosis was 25.6% (81/316); of these, 12.9% (41/316) were protozoan infections and 12.7% (40/316) were helminth infections. Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that being older than 36 years (AOR: 4.35; 95% CI: 1.26, 13.91; p = 0.001), rural residence (AOR: 3.46; 95% CI: 1.18, 9.97; p < 0.001), unable to read and write (AOR = 2.62; 95%CI = 2.15, 8.43; p = 0.004), and use of river water (AOR: 3.47; 95% CI: 1.62, 8.21; p < 0.001) were associated with intestinal parasitic infections. The present study showed that the prevalence of intestinal parasitosis among presumptive pulmonary tuberculosis patients was high in the study area. Age, residence, educational status, and source of water were significant factors in IPIs among presumptive TB patients. Moreover, our findings suggest a proper health education program for good personal hygiene habits, the coloration of water, avoiding open-field defecation, and also preventative measures to avoid the acquisition of IPIs in patients with TB. Presumptive tuberculosis patients should be screened and treated accordingly. Additionally, it needs further research and recommends more assessment for intestinal parasitic infection in PTB patients.

Occurrence of intestinal parasites in effluent slurries from piggeries in Enugu, Nigeria

There is a growing concern for pig parasites as a bottleneck for low productivity and reduction in the market value of pork meat. Parasite infection is a common problem in organic pig production, which can threaten the food safety of pork products, and cause economic losses to organic farmers. Hence assessing various channels by which these diseases can be transmitted is very important. This study was carried out to ascertain the distribution of intestinal parasites in slurries from a piggery in Enugu, South East Nigeria. In this study, a total of 100 pooled samples were examined from 5 farms. These samples were analyzed using the formol ether concentration technique. Out of 100 pooled samples examined, 67% of the samples were positive for intestinal parasites. The occurrence rate of the different parasites encountered was: Ascaris suum (11.9%), Trichuris suis (10.4%), Taenia solium (7.6%), Strongyloides ransomi (3.0%), Schistosoma sp.(3.0%), Entamoeba suis (28.6%), Entamoeba polecki (1.5%) and Ancylostoma duodenale (20.9%). This study is of utmost importance as findings from this study highlight the presence of various intestinal parasites in effluent slurries. There are prospects of the spread of these slurries from piggeries into the surrounding environment (which includes residential areas, commercial areas and even farmlands). Deworming of pigs to reduce parasite load is highly advocated.

Prevalence of hospital acquired gastrointestinal protozoa parasites among in-patients of a missionary and private hospital in Awka, Southeastern Nigeria

Regardless of the efforts by health organizations and hospital personnel, research continues to report hospital acquired infections in admitted patients worldwide. This research was carried out to survey the prevalence of hospital acquired gastrointestinal protozoa parasites among admitted patients of Regina Caeli Specialist Hospital (missionary hospital) and Izunna Hospital and Maternity (private hospital) in Awka South LGA of Anambra State, Southeast Nigeria. Two samples each from 79 patients were collected and analyzed using direct wet mount and formol ether concentration technique. Other information concerning demography and risk factors were obtained with the aid of a structured questionnaire. Data obtained was analyzed using chi-square test and probability values ≤ 0.05 were considered significant. Out of the samples examined, 9(11.4%) were positive for hospital acquired gastrointestinal protozoa parasites. Hospital acquired gastrointestinal protozoa parasites were found to occur in all two hospitals with the missionary hospital having the highest occurrence rate of 66.7%. Males recorded the highest prevalence of 6(15.8%) compared to females 3(7.3%) while age group 50-59years had the highest prevalence of 28.6%. Patients from the male ward recorded a higher prevalence of 17.9%. Meanwhile patients whose occupation is farming had a higher prevalence of 25.0% while patients who only wash their vegetables/fruits sometimes before eating presented a higher prevalence of 18.2%. Prevalence of hospital acquired gastrointestinal protozoa parasite infection was strongly associated with duration of hospital stay (P˂ 0.000). Out of the four parasites identified, Entamoeba histolytica was the most prevalent with 5(55.6%). Consequently, regulation of patients’ hospital stay, sanitation and better hygiene practices should be adopted and encouraged to prevent the spread of hospital acquired infection.

CO-INFECTION WITH MALARIA AND INTESTINAL PARASITES AND ITS ASSOCIATION WITH ANEMIA IN CHILDREN (ZERO TO TEN YEARS OLD) IN TIKO SUBDIVISION, CAMEROON.

Concomitant infections with malaria and intestinal parasitic infections may be associated with anemia in children (0-10 yr). This study determined the prevalence of co-infection with malaria and intestinal parasitic infections and determined its association with anemia in children (0-10 yr) in Tiko, Cameroon. A hospital-based cross-sectional study was carried out whereby venous blood and stool samples were collected from 377 febrile children. Blood was used to perform a full blood count. Thick and thin blood films were prepared and stained with Giemsa for malaria parasite diagnosis. The formol ether concentration technique was used to analyze the stools. Pearson's chi-square test, Student's t-test, and other statistical analyses were performed. Of the 377 participants, 139 (36.9%) were positive for malaria, 21 (5.6%) had intestinal helminths, 8 (2%) had co-infection, and 79 (21.0%) were anemic. Malaria and anemia were prevalent among the children and were significantly associated (P = 0.025). There was no statistically significant difference (P > 0.05) among age groups. Girls were more often infected with malaria (69, 37.3%), and boys were more often infected with intestinal parasites (13, 7.0%), but there was no statistical association for both malaria and intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) for both sexes (P > 0.05). Hookworms, Ascaris lumbricoides, and Trichuris trichiura were the intestinal parasites found in this study. There was a significant association between anemia and parasitic co-infection in children (P = 0.003). Malaria and IPIs are prevalent in the Tiko municipality. They play a great role in anemia especially when there is a co-infection. Public education and awareness campaigns are necessary in this municipality.

Prevalence of Zoonotic Intestinal Parasites in Meat Goats in Southern Thailand.

Background: Intestinal parasites not only lead to poor goat health and productivity but can also affect human health. We investigated the distribution of zoonotic intestinal parasites among goats in southern Thailand to assess the human health risks. Materials and Methods: Overall, 561 fecal samples were collected randomly from goats in farms (55) in Songkhla, Satun, Pattalung, Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat provinces between January 2020 to January 2022. Parasite eggs were detected via the standard protocol formalin ether concentration technique (FECT). Results: Samples containing one or more intestinal parasites accounted for 97.33% (543/561) of the total samples, and the percentage of zoonotic parasite was 80.04% (449/561). Among the positive samples, two types of zoonotic helminths were identified, Strongylid egg type (79.32%) and Fasciola spp. (2.14%). Strongylid egg type was highly abundant in samples from Satun (84.62%), Songkhla (82.74%), Pattalung (79.31%), and Yala (77.27%). Fasciola spp. was mostly found in samples form Pattalung (13.79%) and Songkhla (1.12%). Eimeria spp. was the mostly identified protozoa 25.67%. It was mostly identified in samples from Narathiwat (75%), Pattani (41.9%), and Songkhla (31.41%). Mixed infections accounted for 40.82% of the total with 33 patterns. It was found that Strongylid egg types occurred in 28 patterns (84.85%). Strongylid egg types-Eimeria spp.-pattern was the most commonly found. Conclusion: Based on the results, zoonotic helminth infection was found together with widespread and high diversity of intestinal parasites infection in meat goats, which affect animal health and may pose a risk to human health. Mass deworming programs with a proper anthelmintic drugs and good agricultural practices need to be encouraged by the government so that people who contact with goats should practice good hygiene behavior. Farm management should be applied by intensive goat raising with pasture circulating to reduce parasite egg contamination. Moreover, fresh fertilizers from goat faces should be avoided.

Prevalence and risk factors of geohelminths in primary schools children aged 5 to 15 years in the city of Moundou, southwestern Chad

Geohelminthiases are endemic in Chad and constitute a serious public health problem. This study aimed at determing the prevalence and risk factors of intestinal geohelminthiasis in children aged 5–15 years in the city of Moundou, Chad. This was a cross-sectional and descriptive study carried out in the city of Moundou. A total of 333 pupils participated in this study and it included children aged from 5 to 15 years attending three public primary schools in Moundou. A questionnaire was administered to each student after obtaining Informed Consent from either parent. Stool samples were collected in a sterile container and, the formalin-ethyl ether concentration technique was used to identify parasite. Parasitic load was assessed using the Mc Master cell method. The collected data were analyzed using Excel; Word 2016 and SPSS 20 software. An overall prevalence of 16.52% was obtained, 9.3% for Trichuris trichiura, 6.9% for Ascaris lumbricoides, and 1.2% for Hookworms. Male participants were more infected (67.24%) than females (32.76%). The age group]9–13] was the most infected (53.44%), followed by the age group [5–9](44.83%) and finally the age group]13–15] (1.73%). The Ouhoud school was the most infected (55.17%) followed by the Adoum Dallah school (39.66%) and finally the Centre school (5.17%). However, no statistically significant difference between gender and geohelminthiasis infection was recorded (p > 0.05). Regarding risk factors, statistical analysis showed that age group]9–13] (OR = 1.997 at 95% CI at [1.085–3.677]), Central Public School (OR = 1.55 at 95% CI at [0.63–2.46]), tap water (OR = 29 at 95% CI at [20.89–38.70]), not maintaining latrines (OR = 2.37 at 95% CI at [0.62–3.78]), and maintenance of latrines by pupils (OR = 1.5 at 95% CI at [0.63–2.46]) were risk factors. This study shows a high prevalence of geohelmenthiasis among children of three primary schools in Moundou, Chad. Although males were more infected than female there was no significant difference between gender and geohelminth infections (p = 0.114). was no gender difference. Identified risk factors of geohelmenthiasis infections among the study population were: age between 9 and 13 years, school water consumption, the use of unmaintained latrines and latrines maintained by students. Surveillance of geohelminthiases and hygiene should be intensified to reduce the pathological risk related to these parasites in Chad.

Prevalence and Predictors Associated to Schistosoma mansoni Infection among Patients Attending the Saint Jean de Malte Hospital, Njombe, Littoral Region, Cameroon.

Schistosomiasis remains a major public health concern in sub-Saharan Africa. It has been associated to morbidity and mortality in developing countries including Cameroon, and Njombe-Penja health district is an endemic area. This study is aimed at determining the prevalence and risk factors of Schistosoma mansoni infection among patients attending the Saint Jean de Malte Hospital, Njombe. A cross-sectional study design was employed, with the enrolment of 300 participants using convenience sampling technique. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Stool specimens were collected and examined using direct microscopy, Kato-Katz's method, and formol ether concentration technique. Data were analyzed using SPSS, and chi-square test was used to assess the association. Risk factors for S. mansoni infection were assessed using multivariable logistic regression, and a p < 0.05 was considered significant. The overall prevalence of Schistosoma mansoni infection was 13%. Schistosoma mansoni infection was mostly frequent among patients < 20 years and males. Stream usage (AOR = 2.15, 95% CI. 1.32-3.50), always visiting the stream (AOR = 11.35, 95% CI 2.33-55.33), always swimming and washing clothes in the stream (AOR = 7 : 10, 95% CI 2.31-21.80), age group < 20 years (AOR = 3.7, 95% CI 1.1-12.2), and age group 20-29 years (AOR = 2.58, 95% CI 1.14-18.42) were significantly associated with increased risk of S. mansoni infection. These findings suggest that Schistosoma mansoni infection is of public health concern in Njombe and its environs. Age of <20 years and between 20 and 29 years, stream usage, always visiting the stream, and always swimming and washing clothes in the stream were the main risk factors of S. mansoni infection. Thus, mass drug administration and health education are required.

PREVALENCE OF INTESTINAL PARASITIC INFECTIONS AMONG INTERNALLY DISPLACED PERSON’S AND HOST COMMUNITIES IN MUBI NORTH LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, ADAMAWA STATE, NIGERIA

A study on the Prevalence of Intestinal Parasitic Infections was carried out among Internally Displaced Persons and the host community in Mubi North Local Government Area of Adamawa State. 400 stool samples were collected from three communities namely, Barama,Yelwa and Wuro Hande. The Stool samples was processed using formol ether concentration technique and examined under microscope for the cyst of parasites with the aid of identification manual..121 were infected with a Prevalence rate of (30.3%). Eight Parasites species were encountered namely, Ascaris lumbricoides(36.1%), Schistosoma mansoni (22.5%), Ancylostoma duodenale (12.6%), Entamoeba histolytica (5.3%), Hymenolepis nana (2.6%), Enterobius vermicularis (3.0%), Entamoeba coli (6.0%) and Giardia lamblia (7.0%.). Ascaris lumbricoides was the most prevalent parasite while Hymenolepis nana was the least encountered. Internally Displaced Persons were more infected (34.5%) compared to the host community (26.0%), though statistically not significant P&gt;0.05. Males were more infected among the IDPs (41.1%) than females 29.1%, while females (27.2%) were more infected than males (24.4%) in the host communities.. The study showed that infection was wide spread within the communities irrespective of settlement status. This could be attributed to poor personal hygiene, and indiscriminate dumping of waste, coupled with the challenges of portable water supply. There is the need for improvement in the availability of portable water supply and proper waste management in mubi and environs.

PREVALENCE OF INTESTINAL PARASITES, MALNUTRITION, ANEMIA AND THEIR RISK FACTORS AMONG ORPHANED CHILDREN IN SANA'A CITY, YEMEN

Background: Intestinal parasites infection, malnutrition, and anemia are endemic among children living inpoor and developing low-income countries, particularly Yemen. Aims: The current study aims to determine the prevalence of intestinal parasites, malnutrition, and anemia and their risk factors among orphaned children in Sana'a city, Yemen. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in the orphanage between September 2020 and November 2023. One hundred and ninety-five (195) stool and blood samples were collected from orphan children aged 7-15 years. Intestinal parasites were examined using the formal ether concentration technique and hemoglobin was assessed using a Sysmex hematology analyzer. Result: Out of 195 specimens, 77(39.49%) were positive for parasite infection. The high rate of infections was among subjects aged between 10-12 years (43.9%), at primary schools (42.9%), didn’t have a history of parasite infection (48.9%), between 102-118 cms in height (48.6%), 11-30 kg in weight (49.4%), and underweight (40.1%) non-statistical differences (P &gt; 0.05). The most predominant parasite was Entamoeba histolytica (17.4%), followed by Giardia lamblia (10.3%), Hymenolepis nana (6.2%), Ascaris lumbricoides (3.6%), and Enterobius vermicularis (3.6%). The prevalence of anemia was 19% and statistically significant with parasitic infection (P = 0.000) but not significantly to risk factors (P&gt; 0.05). Conclusion: There is a high prevalence of intestinal parasites, anemia and malnutrition among the participating children, and this affects their health and life. Therefore, the implementation of control and prevention programs including improvement of health status, regular deworming practices with medication, health education, provision of appropriate food, and iron supplementation is required to reduce the incidence of malnutrition and anemia associated with intestinal parasitic infection. Peer Review History: Received: 20 February 2023; Revised: 16 March; Accepted: 18 April 2023, Available online: 15 May 2023 Academic Editor: Dr. Emmanuel O. Olorunsola, Department of Pharmaceutics &amp; Pharmaceutical Technology, University of Uyo, Nigeria, olorunsolaeo@yahoo.com Received file: Reviewer's Comments: Average Peer review marks at initial stage: 5.0/10 Average Peer review marks at publication stage: 7.0/10 Reviewers: Dr. Bilge Ahsen KARA, Ankara Gazi Mustafa Kemal Hospital, Turkey, ahsndkyc@gmail.com Prof. Hassan A.H. Al-Shamahy, Sana'a University, Yemen, shmahe@yemen.net.ye

Evaluation of CD4 Count, Haemoglobin, and Intestinal Parasites Status of Cancer Patients Receiving Oncology Therapy in Calabar, Nigeria

Cancer is a human cellular error with a high mortality rate, especially in developing regions. Resolving this error with therapy may render patients immunologically depressed and susceptible to opportunistic infections including parasitic. The gut parasites, Cluster of Differentiation four (CD4) cells and haemoglobin (Hb) levels of cancer patients on oncology therapy in Calabar, Nigeria were studied. Stool and blood samples were collected from 317 (186 cancer and 131 apparently healthy) subjects. Parasites were identified using direct smear and formol ether concentration techniques while CD4 and Hb estimation were done using BD-fascount and fluorescent flow cytometric techniques, respectively. Data were analysed using chi-square and independent sample t-test. Overall parasitosis prevalence in this study was (27.44%) with cancer showing an association with intestinal parasitosis (P=0.001) and CD4 level (P=0.002), respectively but none with Hb level. Parasiteinfected cancer subjects had significantly lower mean haemoglobin concentration than their non-infected counterpart (t = - 4.869, P&lt;0.001). Generally, cancer subjects on cancer treatment had an insignificantly lower parasite and significantly lower CD4 levels compared to their non-treated counterpart (P = 0.829) and (P&lt;0.001), respectively but their mean haemoglobin levels were similar (P=0.701). Cancer subjects on chemotherapy alone had significantly higher parasite prevalence, 50.00% compared to 28.95% for those on combined (surgery and chemotherapy) treatment (P=0.014), whereas the type of treatment showed no significant effect on CD4 and Hb levels. Parasite occurrence was only pronounced (71.43%) among subjects with &gt;12 months of treatment duration (P=0.1038). There was a correlation between duration of treatment and CD4 levels (r = - 0.231, P&lt;0.05) but none with haemoglobin levels (r = 0.024, P&gt;0.05) of cancer subjects. In conclusion, although this study has shown that cancer as a condition increases parasite prevalence and reduces mean CD4 counts in subjects, their haemoglobin levels were not significantly affected, except for subjects with intestinal parasite infections. Treatment with cancer therapy did not also affect the haemoglobin concentration, but significantly reduced the CD4 cell number of subjects. Subjects who had majorly, chemotherapy were mostly infected with the parasite but with no noticeable effect on their CD4 and haemoglobin levels. A prolonged duration of treatment increased parasitosis and reduced the CD4 level of subjects but did not affect haemoglobin levels. Apart from the oncological treatments given to cancer subjects, management of cancer subjects should include parasitological examination and treatment, periodic monitoring of their hematologic profile and regular immune revitalization procedures, especially for those placed on prolonged therapy.

Parasitic etiology of diarrhea and associated factors among under-five-year children attending Mizan-Tepi University Teaching Hospital, Southwest Ethiopia.

globally, an estimated two billion cases of diarrhea occur every year, and an estimated 1.7 million children under the age of five years, mostly in developing countries die due to diarrheal cases. It is caused by different enteropathogens such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Diarrhea caused by parasitic etiology is common in under-five-year children in sub-Saharan Africa. The objective was to investigate the parasitic etiology of diarrhea among under-five-year children in Mizan-Tepi University Teaching Hospital, Southwest Ethiopia. institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted from September to November 2021. A total of 300 under-five-year children presenting with diarrhea in Mizan-Tepi University Teaching Hospital were included in the study. Data used to assess associated factors for intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) was collected using a structured questionnaire. Stool specimens were collected from the study participants for investigations of the parasitic etiology of diarrhea. The specimens were processed microscopically using direct wet mount and formol ether concentration techniques. Modified Ziehl-Neelsen staining of formol-ether concentrated specimens was also performed. Data was entered using Epi-Data version 4.6.0 and analyzed using Stata/SE version 14.0. Crude odds ratio and adjusted odds ratio were used to determine the association. from a total of 300 children who participated in this study, 68 (22.67%) were positive for at least one intestinal parasite. E. histolytica23(7.67%) and G. lamblia17(5.67%) were the predominant parasitic etiologies and 28(9.33%) were positive for intestinal helminthic parasites; 11(3.67%) Ascaris lumbricoides, 10(3.33%) Trichuris trichiura, 4(1.33%) Hymenolepsis nana, and 3(1%) were double infection with Trichuris trichuria and Ascaris lumbricoides. Multivariable analysis revealed the age group category 2-3 years of age children was more attributable to intestinal parasitic infections (AOR= 0.466, 95% CI: 0.204-0.976). the overall prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) in this study was 22.67%. Diarrheal etiology of intestinal parasites among under five years of children identified in this study were significantly associated with maternal/ guardians´ educational status, (AOR=94.900, 95% CI: 24.664-365.155) use of unprotected water for drinking, (AOR =25.189, 95% CI: 4.671-135.847).

Prevalence of Intestinal Parasites and its Predisposing Factors among Patients Sent for Stool Examination at Ambo General Hospital, Oromiya Region, Ethiopia

Back ground: Intestinal parasitic infections are the most common infection in the world. In Ethiopia there is a high prevalence of intestinal parasites due to lack of personal hygiene and poor environmental conditions. Objective: The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence of intestinal parasites and predisposing factors among patients who sent for stool examination at Ambo general hospital Ambo Town, West Shewa zone. Methodology: A cross- sectional parasitological study was conducted August 22, 2021- August 31, 2021 G.C to determine the prevalence of intestinal parasites and its portion formula was used to determine a total sample size and convenient sampling technique was used. After ethical approval taken, patients data was collected by face-to face interviewing and recording method. Stool samples was examined by using direct saline and formal ether concentration techniques. Collected data was analyzed manually, checked and edited to determine the related risk factors of the intestinal parasites. Result and Conclusion: There was high prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection in the study in which 63.1% of them were found to be positive for at least single intestinal parasite. Total of seven intestinal parasites were identified. From the identified species G.lambilia was the most common 110(52.9%) followed by E.histolytica 42(20.2%), A.lambricoids 16(7.7%), Hook worm 12(5.8%), Tina species 10(4.8%), T.trichuria 10(4.8%) and S.mansoni 10(4.8%). Recommendations: Educate the patients and inform the concerned bodies about the risk factors and prevention. This finding from the study could be used as base line data and further investigation should be done to know the problem of intestinal parasitism more in the area by the others.

Intestinal Parasites among Asymptomatic Food Handlers in a Tertiary Institution in Owo, Ondo State, Nigeria

ABSTRACT Incidence of intestinal parasites has been described as one of the most common problems of developing countries like Nigeria. This study was carried out to determine the possible presence of parasites amongst asymptomatic food handlers in tertiary institution in Owo. One hundred and twenty three (123) stool samples were randomly collected from food vendors in Achievers University, Owo. Also, questionnaires were administered and collated. The samples were transported to the University Parasitology Laboratory within 1 hour of production and examined microscopically using physiological saline and iodine direct mount and formal ether concentration techniques. Out of the 123 stool samples analyzed, 20 were infected with gastrointestinal parasitic organisms, giving a prevalence of 16.26%. Three different parasites were identified: Ascaris lumbricoides (12.20%), Giardia lambia (5.67%), and Entamoeba histolytica (3.25%). The prevalence with respect to gender showed that parasitic infestation was higher in females (9.76%) than in males (6.50%). The parasitic infestation was higher in age groups 36–45 years (7.32%), followed by age groups 18–25 years (5.69) and least in age group 26–35 years (3.25%). The parasitic infestation was higher among subjects who sell cooked food and snacks (6.50%), followed by those who sell cooked food only (4.88%), and lastly 2.44% among those that sell snacks and roasted meat respectively. In conclusion, this study confirmed the presence of intestinal parasitic infection among food handlers in Achievers University Owo, Ondo State. Good hygiene and safe food-handling should be exercised by food handlers.

Prevalence Of Gastrointestinal Helminths In Cattle Reared In Owo, Ondo State, Nigeria

This study was carried out to evaluate the presence of intestinal parasitic infection among cattle reared in Owo, Ondo state. Seventy two (72) fecal samples were randomly collected from cattle. Characteristics of each cattle such as sex, age and body condition scores were noted. Fecal samples were collected per rectum from the selected animals and were subjected to physiological normal saline, Iodine and formal ether concentration techniques. . The overall prevalence of gastrointestinal helminth parasites was 94.4%. Of the 72 cattle screened, 68 were infected, with 16.7% mixed infections and 77.6% single infection with high prevalence of Toxocara vitulorum (26.3%), Strongyloides papillosus (20.8%), Taenia saginata (12.5%), Cooperia spp (9.7%), Haemonchus contortus (8.3%) respectively. Common parasites in mixed infections are Toxocara vitulorum, Strongyloides papillosus, and Paramphistomum spp. Hence, in order to mitigate these issues, it is crucial to promote the implementation of suitable anthelminthic treatment plans and control measures. This includes advocating for comprehensive programs that address parasite control, effective management of pastures, and maintaining a clean environment for cattle. It is equally important to raise public health awareness and emphasize the significance of these measures. Additionally, there is a pressing requirement to monitor gastrointestinal parasites in cattle as a means to enhance animal production and safeguard public health in Nigeria.

Survey of nosocomial gastrointestinal protozoa infections among hospitalized patients of a tertiary and a secondary hospital in Awka, Anambra state, Nigeria

The hospital environment often become contaminated by infectious agents either through patients or hospital sources. This cross-sectional hospital-based study was conducted to survey the epidemiology of nosocomial gastrointestinal protozoa infections among hospitalized patients in a tertiary and a secondary hospital, Awka, Anambra state. Stool samples were collected from 210 admitted patients and analyzed using direct wet mount and formol ether concentration technique. Demographic and risk factor information were gathered using a structured questionnaire. Data was analyzed using Pearson chi-square test and Probability values ≤ 0.05 were considered significant. From the 210 patients examined, 31(14.8%) contracted nosocomial gastrointestinal protozoa infections. Nosocomial gastrointestinal protozoa infection was recorded in all two hospitals with the tertiary hospital (COOUTH) having the highest infection prevalence of 15.7% at an occurrence rate of 80.6%. Female gender, 10-19years of age, patients with longer admission duration had more prevalent rates of 16.2%, 28.6% and 89.5% respectively. Also, patients admitted in the paediatric ward, those with only primary education and those who don’t always wash their hands before introducing any substance into the mouth had higher prevalence of 20.0%, 25.0% and 20.7% respectively. Nosocomial gastrointestinal protozoa infection was strongly associated with duration of hospital stay and hand washing habits P˂0.05. Among the five protozoa parasites seen, Entamoeba histolytica was the most prevalent 18(58.1%). There is an urgent need for improved patients and health workers personal hygiene, hospital sanitation, and the use of safer medical practices to stop the spread of nosocomial infection.