Formalin-ethyl Acetate Sedimentation Research Articles

Prevalence of gastrointestinal and blood parasites in horses of Nakhon Si Thammarat province, Thailand

Background and Aim: The global prevalence of gastrointestinal (GI) and blood parasite infections in horses is a significant concern due to their substantial impact on morbidity, mortality, and economic losses in the horse industry. In Thailand, limited research has been conducted on these parasites in horse populations, and data from southern Thailand are lacking. Consequently, this study aimed to estimate the prevalence of GI and blood parasites in horses in Nakhon Si Thammarat province, Thailand. Materials and Methods: In total, 79 fecal and blood samples were collected from horses across 11 farms in Nakhon Si Thammarat province. The fecal examination was conducted using simple flotation, formalin-ethyl acetate sedimentation, and a modified McMaster technique. Conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to identify blood and strongyle parasites. The influence of sex, age, and body condition score on the prevalence of GI parasites was also analyzed. Results: Six GI parasites were detected: four nematodes (Oxyuris equi, Parascaris equorum, strongyles, and Strongyloides westeri), one trematode (Gastrodiscus aegyptiacus), and one protozoan (Eimeria leuckarti). The overall prevalence of GI parasites was 74.7%, with single strongyle infections accounting for the highest proportion at 50.6%, followed by co-infections of strongyles and G. aegyptiacus at 10.1%. All 11 pooled strongyle samples were positive for cyathostomins and Strongylus vulgaris using conventional PCR with specific primers. Sex was significantly associated with the overall prevalence of GI parasites, whereas both sex and age were significant risk factors for infection by strongyle parasites. Theileria equi was the only blood parasite species detected in the surveyed horses, with a prevalence of 1.3% (n = 1/79). Conclusion: This study is the first to estimate the prevalence of GI and blood parasites in horses from Nakhon Si Thammarat province, Thailand. These findings highlight the importance of implementing control measures against GI parasites and are pivotal for developing effective infection prevention strategies. Keywords: blood parasites, gastrointestinal parasites, horses, southern Thailand.

INTESTINAL PARASITISM IN WORKING HORSES AND ASSOCIATED ZOONOTIC RISKS IN LOWLANDS OF NEPAL

The presence of intestinal parasites influences equines' well-being and working performance. However, the scenario of parasitism in working horses in the lowlands of Nepal is yet to be explored. The present study aimed to reveal the prevalence and diversity of intestinal parasites (protozoa and helminths) and to list the zoonotic species in working horses in the lowlands of Nepal. Fresh fecal samples (N=102) from horses were collected at two locations (Chitwan and Birgunj) in the lowlands of Terai and were transferred to the research laboratory. Coproscopy was carried out via direct wet mount, formalin ethyl acetate (FEA) sedimentation, saturated salt flotation, and acid-fast staining techniques. Coproscopy revealed an overall prevalence rate of 90.2% (92/102) with 15 known diverse species of parasites (Protozoa: 5 and Helminths: 10) and an unknown coccidian, out of which eight possess zoonotic potential. The prevalence and diversity of intestinal parasites were higher in adult than in young animals (90.7%; 15 spp. vs. 88.9%; 11 spp.) The overall prevalence of helminths was double that of protozoa (89.2% vs. 43.1%). Furthermore, polyparasitism was much more prevalent than monoparasitism (85.3% vs 4.9%). Co-infection with two parasite species (37%) was higher in young horses. In comparison, triplet infection (34%) was higher in adults, and a maximum concurrency of up to six species of parasites at a time was recorded. Following it, the differences in the prevalence rate of parasites based on the predictor of risks, like sex, grazing, domestication type, nature of the floor, and medication practices, were statistically significant. Working horses in the lowlands of Terai harbored a significant variety of intestinal parasites with important prevalence. Since eight of the reported parasitic species were zoonotic, infected horses pose a zoonotic risk to the owners. Therefore, timely deworming, pasture management, and reduction in working pressure are highly recommended.

Intestinal Parasitic Infections in People Referring to the Central Laboratory of Meshkin Shahr County, Ardabil Province, Iran.

Intestinal parasitic infections are still a considerable global public health problem. We aimed to determine the frequency of intestinal parasitic infections among people referring to the central laboratory of Meshkin Shahr City, Ardabil Province, Iran. In this cross-sectional survey, 460 fecal samples were collected randomly from persons referred to the central laboratory of Meshkin Shahr City, from January to June 2022. The samples were examined by direct wet-mount, Trichrome and modified Ziehl-Neelsen staining, formalin ethyl acetate sedimentation, and agar plate culture. The frequency of intestinal parasites was 15.7% (72 out of 460 cases), with some people with numerous intestinal parasites. The frequency of protozoan infections (13.9%) was higher than the helminthic infections (2.6%). Blastocystis spp. (8.1%) was the most prevalent detected intestinal protozoan. Entamoeba coli (5.7%), Dicrocoelium dendriticum (2.2%), Giardia lamblia (1.5%), Fasciola spp. (0.2%), and Hymenolepis nana (0.2%) were other detected parasites. In- spite of betterment of the health condition in Iran and reduction of parasitic infection, intestinal parasitic infections are still a considerable public health issue in some parts of Iran.

Prevalence of intestinal parasites in street dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) with highlights on zoonosis in Lalitpur, Nepal.

The presence of intestinal parasites influences the growth and well-being of canids. Additionally, infected dogs and their faeces with considerably higher eggs/oocysts released per gram (epg/opg) of zoonotic parasites contribute to parasitic spillover to humans, domestic animals and sympatric wildlife. The current study aimed to reveal the prevalence of intestinal parasites (protozoa and helminths) and to list the zoonotically significant parasites in free-roaming street dogs in Lalitpur Metropolitan City, Nepal. Fresh faecal samples (n=332) were collected from feral dogs of varying ages and sexes and transported to the research laboratory. The copro microscopic examination was carried out via direct wet mount, formalin ethyl acetate sedimentation, saturated salt flotation, acid-fast staining and sporulation techniques. Coproscopy revealed an overall 95.7% (318/332) prevalence rate with 23 diverse species of intestinal parasites (10 protozoa and 13 helminths). Among them, 5 protozoa and 11 helminths possessed zoonotic potential, and their overall prevalence was 92.5%. Helminth's overall prevalence was double that of the protozoa (87.7% vs. 43%). Polyparasitism was dominant over mono parasitism (79.5% vs. 16.3%), and co-infection of up to seven species of parasites at a time was recorded. Urban street dogs harboured a higher prevalence of intestinal parasites that varied with age and sex. Since most of the reported parasites are zoonotic, dog density and parasitic richness indicate a greater spillover risk to humans and domestic animals. Furthermore, this study also provides appropriate 'baseline' data for assessing effective control measures against parasitic infestations among street dogs and controlling their transmission to humans.

The prevailing infection of Schistosoma japonicum and other zoonotic parasites in bubaline reservoir hosts in the ricefield of lake ecosystem: the case of Lake Mainit, Philippines.

Bovines are important reservoir hosts of schistosomiasis, placing humans and animals in rice fields areas at risk of infection. This study reported the prevailing infection of zoonotic parasites from bovine feces in the rice fields adjacent to Lake Mainit, Philippines. Formalin Ethyl Acetate Sedimentation was performed on 124 bovine fecal samples from rice fields and documented eggs and cysts from seven parasites: Schistosoma japonicum, Fasciola gigantica, Ascaris sp., Strongyloides sp., Balantidium coli, coccidian oocyst and a hookworm species. Among these parasites, F. gigantica harboured the highest infection with a 100% prevalence rate, followed by hookworms (51.61%), B. coli (30.64%) and S. japonicum (12.09%), respectively. The intensity of infection of S. japonicum eggs per gram (MPEG = 4.19) among bovines is categorized as ‘light.’ Bovine contamination index (BCI) calculations revealed that, on average, infected bovines in rice fields excrete 104 750 S. japonicum eggs daily. However, across all ricefield stations, bovines were heavily infected with fascioliasis with BCI at 162 700 F. gigantica eggs per day. The study reports that apart from the persistent cases of schistosomiasis in the area, bovines in these rice fields are also heavily infected with fascioliasis. The study confirms the critical role of bovines as a reservoir host for continued infection of schistosomiasis, fascioliasis and other diseases in the rice fields of Lake Mainit. Immediate intervention to manage the spread of these diseases in bovines is recommended.

Prevalence of Giardia Lamblia in Stool Samples of Diarrhea Patients in Khost, Afghanistan

The present study was conducted in khost post graduate civil hospital to determine the prevalence of Giardia lambalia in stool samples of patients with complain of diarrhea or abdominal discomfort which were came from center and others different districts of Khost province. Three hundred sixty-eight (368) fecal samples were collected randomly from the male, female and children patients who visited OPD (outpatient department) of mention hospitals from March 2022 to August 2022. The samples were screened for the presence of parasites using microscopic techniques (formalin ethyl acetate sedimentation technique). Out of 368 sample analyzed protozoa etiological agent Giardia lambalia was detected in 34 (9.2%) which were representative of total population. Regarding sex in male 25(70%) and 9(30%) were female positive were detected. To control Giardia lamblia is by good hygiene, adequate cooking of food, and protection of food from flies, properly wash raw vegetables before serving, use of boiled water and well developed sewage system. The study concluded that the use of raw animal manure for fertilizer, irrigation of vegetables with fecal contaminated water, poor sanitary system and improper treatment of water supplies can increase the threat of contamination of water which is main source of causing giardiasis and other infections.

Detection, prevalence, and risk factors associated with Cryptosporidium infection among cattle in Kwara State, Nigeria

Cryptosporidium species cause high morbidity and sometimes high mortality rates among cattle, resulting in serious economic threats. This present study is aimed at investigating the presence, prevalence, distribution, and risk factors associated with Cryptosporidium species infection among cattle in Kwara State, Nigeria. To achieve this, 333 apparently healthy cattle were sampled from abattoirs and different cattle herds over a one-year period. Faecal samples were collected and subjected to the formalin-ethyl acetate (formol-ether) sedimentation technique. Sediments from the formol-ether sedimentation method were used for the modified Ziehl-Neelsen staining technique. The Microsoft Excel (2016) spreadsheet and the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS, Chicago, Illinois, USA) for Windows version 22.0 were used for the data analysis. Of the cattle sampled, 99 were positive for the enteric protozoan (29.73%; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 25.07–34.85). There was no distinct pattern in the monthly prevalence of Cryptosporidium infection in cattle. Breeds of cattle, physiological status, and seasons were statistically associated with the prevalence of Cryptosporidium species in cattle. There is a need to educate pastoralists on the control and preventive measures of this enteric protozoan to improve the economy of the cattle industry and prevent possible transmission to humans in Kwara State and Nigeria in general.

Survey on the prevalence of intestinal parasites in domestic cats (Felis catus Linnaeus, 1758) in central Nepal.

Cats(Felis catus) are the only felines that live in close contact with humans. Since cats can act as vectors, carriers, reservoirs and definitive hosts of many gastrointestinal (GI) parasites, parasitic assessment could contribute to their survival and well-being. The current study aimed to assess the diversity and prevalence of GI parasites in domestic and feral cats from Ratnanagar in Chitwan in Central Nepal. A total of 107 fresh faecal samples of cats (90 household cats and 17 feral cats) of varied ages and sex were collected and transported to the laboratory. The copromicroscopic examination was carried out following direct wet mount, formalin-ethyl acetate sedimentation, saturated salt flotation, acid-fast staining and sporulation techniques. Furthermore, associated risk factors were evaluated to ascertain the predictor of risks for parasitic acquisition. The current study revealed an overall 95.3% prevalence rate with a 100% rate in feral cats and 94.4% in household cats. Altogether, 18 (17 known and one unknown) different species of GI parasites were reported with the helminths (95.3%; 11 species) and the protozoa (55.1%; seven species). Besides age and sex, outdoor lifestyle, absence or unknown history of medication and hunting behaviour of the felines are the predictors of risk. Furthermore, mixed infection was comparatively higher than single infection in the faecal samples. Cats harbour a higher prevalence and greater diversity of GI parasites, and parasitism varies with age and sex. This finding can be essential for veterinarians and public health authorities for strategic treatment and for assessing the zoonotic transmission of the parasites from these felines. Importantly, an effective medication strategy for cats and owners is recommended.

Prevalence of Cryptosporidium infection in slaughtered cattle at Lafenwa Municipal Abattoir, Ogun State

The prevalence of Cryptosporidium in slaughtered cattle at a municipal abattoir in Ogun State was determined by acid-fast staining of stools. Using formalin ethyl acetate sedimentation followed by modified kinyoun’s acid fast staining of 280 faecal samples collected, 105 (37.5%) were positive for Cryptosporidium oocysts. Infection was higher in females and nondiarrhoeic cattle than males and diarrhoeic animals respectively. However, there were no statistical differences (p>0.05) between the sexes and stool consistencies in Cryptosporidium infection. The highest infection rate, 51.2%, was recorded in the Red Bororo breed while the lowest rate, 17.0%, was recorded in the Sokoto Gudali breed. This study showed that cattle slaughtered at the abattoir were mostly infected with Cryptosporidium which may have serious economic, veterinary, and public health implications to beef consumers, abattoir, and farm workers within the state.

Prevalence and Related Risk Factors of Intestinal Parasitosis among Private School-Going Pupils of Dharan Submetropolitan City, Nepal

Introduction Intestinal parasitic infections are most common and prevalent among children and accounts for great morbidity and mortality. Objective This research is aimed at studying the prevalence and related risk factors of parasitic infections among private school-going pupils of Dharan Submetropolitan City. Methods and Materials This was a cross-sectional laboratory-based study conducted from 13 November 2018 to 26 February 2019 among 400 private school pupils. The stool samples were collected and microscopically examined for parasites using the formalin ethyl acetate sedimentation technique. Data Analysis. Statistical analysis was performed by using SPSS version 16.0. Pearson's Chi-square test was used to establish association between dependent and independent variables. The association was also determined using crude and adjusted odds ratio, and the test considered a P value < 0.05 as statistically significant with 95% confidence interval. Result In this study, 46 (11.5%) children were positive for intestinal parasites. In this study, 3 protozoans (Entamoeba histolytica = 3 (0.75%)) and 43 helminths (Ascaris lumbricoides = 22 (5.5%); Enterobiusvermicularis = 6 (1.5%); Ancylostoma duodenale = 2 (0.5%); and Trichuris trichiura = 13 (3.25%)) were isolated and identified. Statistically, significant difference in the parasitic prevalence with respect to age and gender was not seen (P > 0.05). However, the prevalence of parasitic infection was strongly associated with the ethnicity of the pupils (P = 0.001). The strong associated risk factors of intestinal parasitic infections were nail-biting habit, source of drinking water, biannual deworming, thumb-sucking, hand sanitation before having food and after toilet, knowledge of parents on parasitosis, health and sanitation, keeping cat/dog as pet, and wearing protective shoes during play (P = 0.001). Bowel syndromes like abdominal cramp and constipation also had a strong statistical association (P = 0.001) with the prevalence of parasitic infection. According to binary and multivariate logistic regression analyses, the parents without awareness, pupils with a nail-biting habit, pupils not wearing shoes during play, lack of deworming, drinking direct tap water, and pupils with poor hand sanitation were more likely to be infested with intestinal parasitic infections. Conclusion This study concludes that intestinal parasites are still prevalent among private school-going pupils of Dharan Submetropolitan City. The poor sanitation and sanitary habits like biting nails, consumption of untreated drinking water, and failure to practice proper hand washing were studied as contributors to the acquisition of intestinal parasitic infections. Therefore, integration of control measures such as provision of clean and safe drinking water, improved sanitation and hygiene, with biannual administration of drugs are necessary for effective eradication of parasitic infections.

Prevalence of Schistosoma japonicum infection in water buffaloes in selected areas in Davao del Norte and Davao de Oro, the Philippines

Background and Aim: Schistosomiasis (SCH) japonica is a zoonotic disease that can infect several mammalian hosts. Bovines, particularly water buffaloes, are considered the most important reservoir hosts due to the high levels of schistosome eggs, they excrete into the environment. In the Philippines, the previous studies have revealed a high prevalence of SCH in bovines in selected provinces in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. However, there is a lack of studies on SCH in the Davao Region, Mindanao, where the infection remains a public health concern. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of SCH in water buffaloes in four barangays (villages) each in Braulio Dujali, Davao del Norte and Maragusan, Davao de Oro, Southeastern Mindanao, the Philippines. Materials and Methods: Fecal samples from 91 water buffaloes were collected intrarectally, processed using the formalin-ethyl acetate sedimentation technique, and examined microscopically to determine the prevalence of SCH. Results: A total of three water buffaloes (8.6%) in Maragusan were determined to be positive for Schistosoma japonicum, while none in Braulio Dujali. The prevalence of other parasites (Fasciola spp. [53.8%], Paramphistome spp. [20.9%], Amphistome spp. [16.5%], Strongyle spp. [11.0%], Balantidium spp. [9.9%], Eurytrema spp. [2.2%], and Gongylonema pulchrum [1.1%]) was also observed. Conclusion: The results of the study provide baseline data on the presence of S. japonicum in water buffaloes in the Davao Region, Mindanao. Strategies for controlling and eliminating SCH in animal reservoir hosts, especially in water buffaloes, are necessary for the long-term control and elimination of SCH in humans.

Zoonotic Transmission and Infection from Bovine Feces in Selected Ricefields of Lake Mainit, Philippines

Ricefields are suitable nidus of active parasite transmission via bovines due to often unprotected exposure by humans and livestock that utilize the habitat for farming and foraging. This study was conducted to assess infection of protozoans, trematodes and nematodes from bovine feces from ricefields of Brgy Magpayang, San Isidro and Matin-ao surrounding Lake Mainit, Philippines. Bovine fecal samples collected from these ricefields were processed using the Formalin Ethyl Acetate Sedimentation (FEA-SD) technique. A total of five species from three major parasite groups (protozoans, trematodes and nematodes) were observed. Bovines from ricefields of Brgy San Isidro harbored the highest number of fecal parasites. The liver fluke Fasciola sp. was the most predominant species observed with the highest prevalence (69%) across study areas. In contrast, multiple parasite burden of Fasciola sp., hookworms, coccidian oocysts and Ascaris sp. eggs were observed from bovines from Brgy San Isidro and Matin-ao. This study is the first report of parasites from bovine feces in selected ricefields of Lake Mainit. The high prevalence of Fasciola eggs in bovines calls for an extensive assessment of possible widespread bovine fascioliasis in the area.

Intestinal parasites in canine feces contaminating urban and recreational areas in Ushuaia (Argentina).

Wild and domestic dogs are important reservoir hosts of numerous intestinal parasites that represent potential infection sources for both humans and wild or other domestic animals. The aim of this study was to determine the presence, diversity, and contamination potential of intestinal parasites in dog feces contaminating urban and recreational areas in Ushuaia (Tierra del Fuego province, Argentina). A total of 80 canine fecal samples were collected from urban (playgrounds, streets, sidewalks, squares and coastal walks) and recreational areas (winter centers for raising and training sled dogs) in 2018. Samples were preserved in 5% formalin and processed using formalin-ethyl acetate sedimentation and FLOTAC dual Pellet techniques. Data were analyzed using the R software. At least one parasite species was recovered in 32.5% of the total samples examined. Of the seven parasite species detected, infection by protozoan species was higher than helminth infections (28.8% versus 8.8%). Sarcocystis sp. (20.0%), Giardia sp. (8.8%) and Cystoisospora spp. (7.5%) were the most frequent species, followed by Toxocara canis (5.0%), Echinococcus spp./Taenia spp. (2.5%), Trichuris vulpis and Uncinaria sp. (1.3% for both). Single infections (69.2%) were more frequent than coinfections with two (19.2%) and three parasite species (11.5%). This study provides the first description of the diversity and frequency of intestinal parasite species in dog feces from Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world. The unfavorable environment of Ushuaia, characterized by low temperatures and winter snowfall, is likely to reduce parasite survivability, decreasing contamination potential. Some parasite species found are potentially zoonotic and represent an important risk for the human population and a source of infection to free-roaming pets. The results of this study revealed the need to strengthen the prevention, surveillance and control of these infections in pets, as well as to implement programs for public health education, control measures for the free-roaming canine population, and responsible pet ownership in the study area.

Prevalence and associated risk factors of human intestinal parasitic infections: a population-based study in the southeast of Kerman province, southeastern Iran

BackgroundDetermination of the prevalence and distribution pattern of intestinal parasites is a fundamental step to set up an effective control program to improve the health status. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections and associated risk factors among inhabitants of Rudbar-e Jonub county, southeast of Kerman province, southeastern Iran.MethodsIn this cross-sectional study, 861 stool specimens were collected from inhabitants of Rudbar-e Jonub county through a multistage cluster sampling method in 2018. The collected specimens were examined by parasitological methods including, direct wet-mounting (for the fresh specimens with a watery consistency), formalin-ethyl acetate sedimentation and agar plate culture.ResultsThe prevalence of intestinal parasites was 34.2% (95% CI 30.1 to 38.2). The prevalence of protozoan parasites 32.3% (95% CI 28.4 to 36.5) was significantly higher than helminthic parasites 3.2% (95% CI 2.1 to 4.7). Blastocystis sp. (13.3%), Entamoeba coli (11.4%) and Giardia lamblia (10.6%) as protozoan parasite and Hymenolepis nana (2.4%) as helminthic parasite were the most common detected intestinal parasites in the study. Entamoeba histolytica/dispar (1.5%), Iodamoeba bütschlii (1.0%), Chilomastix mesnili (0.5%), Entamoeba hartmanni (0.4%), Enterobius vermicularis (0.3%) and Ascaris lambercoides (0.3%) were other detected parasites. Multiple logistic regression revealed a significant association of intestinal parasitic infections with source of drinking water and residency status (rural/urban). Multiple infections with 2 or 3 parasitic agents constituted 22.7% of 295 infected cases.ConclusionsThis study revealed a high prevalence of intestinal protozoan infections among inhabitants of Rudbar-e Jonub county. Intestinal parasites especially protozoans remain a challenging public health problem wherever sanitation and health measures are limited in Iran.

Occurrence of fluke infection in beef cattle around Phayao Lake, Phayao, Thailand.

Background and Aim:Ruminant flukes, including Fasciola spp. and Paramphistomum spp., are recognized as the significant parasites in livestock worldwide. Cattle infected by these fluke results in slower growth rate and productivity losses contributing to economic losses. In case of Fasciola spp., the parasite is considered as an important zoonotic parasite. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of fluke invasion in beef cattle around Phayao Lake, Phayao, Thailand, between January 2019 and June 2019.Materials and Methods:A total of 311 fecal samples from beef cows reared nearby Phayao Lake were examined for the presence of fluke eggs by formalin-ethyl acetate sedimentation and subsequently identified by morphology together with methylene blue staining.Results:The overall prevalence of fluke invasion in beef cattle around Phayao Lake was 33.8% (105/311). The prevalence of rumen fluke and liver fluke was 25.4% (79/311) and 8.4% (26/311), respectively. Mixed infection of both species was found at 1.9% (6/311).Conclusion:Age of cattle was observed to be associated with invasion rate of all flukes, particularly in the ages over 4 years, which was the highest group of invasion. However, other risk factors, including gender, breed, and location of animals, were not found to be related. This study provides the current status of natural fluke invasion among the beef cattle in Phayao, Thailand, which could be critical for designing the control program of these parasites.

Schistosoma japonicum infections in cattle and water buffaloes of farming communities of Koronadal City, Philippines

Background and Aim: Schistosomiasis is one of the seven neglected tropical diseases that are of public health concern in the Philippines. The disease is prevalent in few of the barangays (communities) in Koronadal City, Philippines. Status of the Schistosoma japonicum infections in domestic animal reservoir host has yet to be explored in these endemic communities. The study aimed to determine the prevalence and infection intensity of the disease in cattle and water buffaloes of endemic communities of Koronadal City. Materials and Methods: Schistosomiasis was investigated in 70 cattle and 38 water buffaloes from three endemic communities in Koronadal City. The copro-parasitological technique used was the formalin-ethyl acetate sedimentation method. Results: S. japonicum infection was observed in 48.6% of cattle and 60.5% in water buffaloes. The bovine contamination index indicated that all infected animals released 3,505,500 eggs/day. On average, infected cattle released 1,674,500 eggs daily, while infected water buffaloes liberated 1,932,000 eggs in the environment daily. Conclusion: Cattle and water buffaloes in these endemic areas are infected with S. japonicum. These animals release large numbers of eggs in the environment daily; hence, played an important role in disease transmission. Those living and working in endemic areas should be aware of the inherent dangers of the disease.

Helminth infections of great concern among cattle in Nigeria: Insight to its prevalence, species diversity, patterns of infections and risk factors.

Background and Aim:Helminth infections are one of the greatest causes of productive and reproductive loss in animals and man, and in some cases, it results in heavy mortalities. This study was conducted to determine the prevalence, species diversity, patterns of infections and risk factors associated with helminth infections of cattle in Ilorin, Nigeria.Materials and Methods:A total of 478 fecal samples were collected from abattoirs and cattle farms over a year period (March, 2018-February, 2019). Fecal samples were visually examined then observed using simple flotation and formalin-ethyl acetate sedimentation techniques. Eggs and worms were identified according to standard procedures. The packed cell volume was determined using the hematocrit centrifugation technique.Results:A total of 79.92% of the cattle examined were found positive with one or more helminth species. Eighteen helminth species (cutting across all classes of helminths) were detected, with Haemonchus contortus (60.46%), Trichostrongylus spp. (46.44%), Ostertagia ostertagi (42.05%), Bunostomum phlebotomum (28.87%), Cooperia spp. (24.27%), Oesophagostomum radiatum (21.97%), Strongyloides papillosus (12.13%), and Fasciola gigantica (10.67%) been the most prevalent. Helminth infection was detected all through the year with the least prevalence recorded in February (55.00%). About 61% of the examined cattle harbored double/multiple helminth species. There was a significant difference between breed, sex, physiological status, and season with the prevalence rate of helminth infections (p<0.05).Conclusion:Our investigation demonstrated high prevalence and wide diversity of helminth species, which suggests that helminth infections are of great concern among cattle in Ilorin and Nigeria in general. There is a need for a radical veterinary intervention to curb the menace so as to have an economically robust cattle industry in Nigeria.

Prevalence of Entameoba Hsitolyica in Stool Samples of Diarrheal Patients

Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of Entamoeba histolytica in patients suffering from diarrhoea in Quetta. Study Design: Microscopic examination of stool samples and analysis through the formalin ethyl-acetate sedimentation technique. Duration: Six months (from 13-2-2017 to 21-7-2017). Methodology: A total of 235 stool samples randomly collected from females, males and children having abdominal discomfort who visited outpatient departments (OPDs) in different hospitals of Quetta. Results: Out of a total of 235 patients, E. histolytica was found in 45 (19.1%) patients (males = 55.6% and females = 44.4%). Conclusion: Infections of E. histolytica can be controlled by protecting food from flies, use of boiled drinking water, proper washing of fresh vegetables, hygienic conditions and a well-established sanitation system. It has been concluded that the use of animal compost for fertilizer, cleansing of vegetables with water contaminated by animal faeces, and a poor sewage system can enhance the risks of infections caused by this parasite.

Prevalence of intestinal parasites and risk factors with emphasis on Enterobius vermicularis in children of daycares and preparatory schools of the city of Khodabandeh, Northwestern Iran

Introduction: Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) are considered as a common cause of morbidity and mortality in children in the developing countries. The present study was aimed at examining the status of IPIs in the children of daycares and preparatory schools in the city of Khodabandeh located at Northwestern Iran. Materials and Methods: A total of 520 daycare and preprimary school-age children in the northwest of Iran were tested for the presence of intestinal parasites using direct smear and the standard formalin-ethyl acetate sedimentation techniques. Furthermore, the specific “scotch tape” test was used to identify the eggs of pinworm Enterobius vermicularis. Results: Of total 520 children, 55 cases (10.6%) were infected to intestinal parasites, including 9.2% monoparasitism and 1.4% double-parasitism. The prevalence rate for protozoan infections was 7.3% and 3.65% for helminths. Giardia lamblia infection was shown to have the highest prevalence rate among intestinal protozoa by 3.26%. The prevalence rate for E. vermicularis was 3.5% using “scotch tape” test and stool examination. There was a significant correlation between infection with intestinal parasites and daycares (P = 0.004). A significant inverse correlation was established between anal itching (as a sign of E. vermicularis infections) and hand-washing in children using soap or hand-washing liquid (P = 0.004). Conclusions: Infection with intestinal parasites in children of nursery schools and preschools of the study region, compared to the previous situation, is considerably decreased.

Prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections and associated risk factors for hookworm infections among primary schoolchildren in rural areas of Nakhon Si Thammarat, southern Thailand

BackgroundSoil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections are among the most common type of infections worldwide and are widely distributed in tropical areas. In rural areas of southern Thailand where most land is used for agriculture, children are at risk of acquiring parasites, especially STHs. Assessing the current situation regarding parasitic infection in these areas is a prerequisite for developing appropriate control measures. This study is aimed at determining the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections, the intensity of STH infections and the associated risk factors among primary schoolchildren in Nopphitam District, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, Thailand.MethodsA cross-sectional study involving 299 schoolchildren between 7 and 12 years of age was conducted between January and March 2016. A questionnaire administered by direct interviews was used to collect sociodemographic information and data on associated risk factors. Stool samples were processed using direct wet smears, formalin-ethyl acetate sedimentation concentration, and the modified Kato-Katz technique.ResultsThe overall prevalence of intestinal parasites among the 299 children was 16% (48 of 299), with 32 children infected with hookworms (10.7%), 10 with Blastocystis hominis (3.3%), seven with Giardia intestinalis (1.6%), one with Enterobius vermicularis (0.3%), and one with Trichuris trichiura (0.3%). The hookworm infection intensity, measured by the median eggs per gram (EPG) of stool, was 1200 EPG (Interquartile range (IQR): 360–3200). Most children had light-intensity hookworm infections, but two had heavy-intensity infections. When participants included in the sample were classified by age, children 10–12 years old demonstrated higher intestinal parasite prevalence than those aged 7–9 years (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 2.3, 95% CI: 1.1–4.9, P = 0.030). Inadequate handwashing before meals was statistically associated with hookworm infections (AOR = 2.3; 95% CI: 1.1–4.8, P = 0.037).ConclusionsThis study highlights that hookworms are the most prevalent STH infection in the study area. Older age group (10–12 years) and inadequate handwashing before meals were statistically associated with hookworm infections. Accordingly, appropriate strategies and education on personal and environmental hygiene should be implemented. Moreover, the cost-effectiveness of mass drug administration in this area should be further investigated.