Formol-ether Concentration Technique Research Articles

Seroprevalence of Schistosoma japonicum Infection Among Dogs and Water Buffaloes Using Recombinant Antigen ELISA in New Corella, Davao del Norte, Philippines.

Animal reservoirs are important targets for controlling and eliminating schistosomiasis. Prevalence studies showed that dogs (Canis familiaris) and water buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) are important reservoirs of S. japonicum. Previous studies have validated the use of the recombinant proteins Sj1TR, Sj7TR, and SjTPx-1 in ELISA as diagnostics for dogs and water buffaloes from schistosomiasis-endemic areas. In this study, we aimed to determine the seroprevalence of S. japonicum among dogs and water buffaloes in New Corella, Davao del Norte, Philippines, using the recombinant proteins Sj1TR, Sj7TR, and SjTPx-1 in ELISA format. Fecal and serum samples were collected from dogs (n = 63) and water buffaloes (n = 57). Schistosome-positive samples were detected using formalin-ether concentration technique (FECT), stool polymerase chain reaction, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) using soluble egg antigen (SEA), rSj1TR, rSj7TR, and rSjTPx-1. Positivity rates, sensitivity, specificity, predictive values, accuracy, and kappa values were calculated. Mean positivity rates for schistosome infection were high for both dogs (x = 15.40%) and water buffaloes (x = 6.32%). On dogs, the sensitivity and specificity of the tests are as follows: 66.67% and 100% for rSj7TR-ELISA, while 100% and 93.33% for rSjTPx-1-ELISA, respectively. rSjTPx-1-ELISA showed the highest agreement with stool PCR among all diagnostic tests, with an overall kappa value of 0.824. On water buffaloes, the sensitivity and specificity of both rSj1TR-ELISA and rSjTPx-1-ELISA are 100.0% and 98.15%. Both tests also had an overall kappa value of 0.84. To ensure elimination and prevention of schistosomiasis in humans, the use of validated serological diagnostics such as recombinant antigen ELISA is preferable for field detection in animals, especially in resource-limited areas.

Prevalence of bovine fasciolosis and direct financial losses in cattle slaughtered in Bamenda and Bafoussam abattoirs, Western Highlands, Cameroon.

Bovine fascioliasis is a parasitic disease that affects cattle. It leads to direct and indirect great economic loss due to animal mortalities, growth retardation and expenditure on anthelmintics, reduction livestock productivity and essentially condemnation of infected liver by inspection service. The study was carried out to determine the seasonal prevalence and estimated financial losses of fascioliasis in cattle in the Western Highlands of Cameroon. A total of 2167 cattle were selected. Later, the cattle, have being the carcasses, were dissected, and the livers were dissected and carefully examined for adult liver flukes. Faeces were collected immediately after the cattle were killed and examined using the formol-ether concentration technique. Condemned livers were weighted to estimate the financial losses using the average price of a kilogram of liver. A total 428 of cattle were found with infected livers or egg in the faeces giving a total prevalence of 19.75%. Among the infected carcass, 18.64% had both the Fasciola eggs in the faeces and flukes in the liver while 1.10% had only flukes in the liver. Results revealed that prevalence of Fasciola spp. was significantly higher during the rainy season (23.48%) than 16% in the dry season (p=0.00). A significantly (p=0.000) higher prevalence was also observed in females (33.9%) than in males (13.1%). Age range showed significant (p=0.000) influence with the animals of 8-10 years old recorded the highest prevalence of 39.3%. Furthermore, 433.1kg of liver was condemned giving a direct financial loss of 1221,550 FCFA (2049.64 USD) and an annual financial loss due to liver condemnation estimated to 1814,775 (3045.01 USD). Findings of this study indicated that bovine fascioliasis is prevalent in cattle in the Western Highlands of Cameroon, and it leads to an important financial loss particularly in the rainy season.

Prevalence of Intestinal Protozoa Infections Among Some Primary School Pupils in Akko Local Government Area of Gombe State, Nigeria

The prevalence of intestinal protozoa infections among primary school pupils in Akko Local Government Area of Gombe State, Nigeria was investigated. Stool samples were collected from 450 pupils aged 5–13 years from six (6) primary schools in the Local Government Area. A structured questionnaire was used to collect relevant demographic and risk factor data associated with intestinal protozoa infections. The stool samples were processed using the formol-ether concentration technique and microscopically examined for protozoan cysts; 10.7 % of the stool samples were positive for the cysts. The prevalences of intestinal protozoa were: 4.9 % for Entamoeba histolytica, 3.7 % for Entamoeba coli and 2.1 % for Balantidium coli. The prevalence of infection by protozoa in individual schools was not uniform despite the similarity in the local topography and weather conditions. Demographic data of age, sex and nature of school attended (public or private), were recorded at the point of sample collection. The age range prevalence for intestinal protozoa recorded 4.9%, 4% and 1.8% for 5-7 years, 8-10 years and 11-13 years respectively. More male pupils (6.4%) were infected compared to the females (4.3%). The laboratory analysis further revealed that prevalence was more among pupils that attend public school (7.1%) than those in private schools (3.6%). Poverty, ignorance and poor environmental sanitation were factors found to be associated with the prevalence rates recorded. It is therefore recommended that a concerted health education effort is necessary in order to curb the infections within the schools and the communities.

Intestinal Protozoa and Schistosoma Mansoni (Sambon 1907) Infections Among Some Pupils in Akko Local Government Area of Gombe State, Nigeria

The prevalence of intestinal protozoa and Schistosoma mansoni infections among primary school pupils in Akko Local Government Area of Gombe State, Nigeria was investigated. Stool samples were collected from 450 pupils aged 5–13 years in the three (3) districts of Akko Local Government Area. A structured questionnaire was used to collect relevant demographic and risk factor data associated with intestinal protozoa and S. mansoni infections. The stool samples were processed using the formol-ether concentration technique and microscopically examined for protozoan cysts and S. mansoni eggs; 12.4 % of the stool samples were positive for cysts and eggs. The prevalence of intestinal protozoa were: Entamoeba histolytica (4.9 %), Entamoeba coli (3.8 %) and Balantidium coli (2 %); Schistosoma mansoni eggs had a prevalence of 1.6 %. The prevalence of infection with protozoa and S. mansoni infections in individual schools was not uniform despite the similarity in the local topography and weather conditions. Source of drinking water and type of toilet used significantly associated with infection by intestinal protozoa and S. mansoni (Odd’s Ratio value for Pit-latrine was 18.959). The prevalence of intestinal protozoa and Schistosoma mansoni infections among the primary school pupils was associated with poor personal hygiene habits at home and in school, and improper disposal of human and animal waste as implied by the responses to the questionnaire. It is therefore recommended that a concerted health education effort is necessary in order to curb the infections within the schools and the communities.

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 of Gastrointestinal Parasites among Student of Nasarawa State University, Keffi Nasarawa State, Nigeria

Gastrointestinal parasites are significant agents of intestinal infection with public health implications worldwide. This study aimed to ascertain intestinal parasites among students of Nasarawa State University, Keffi, Nasarawa State. A total of 138 Stool samples were collected from students in hostels and off campus and examined using the direct wet preparation and formol-ether concentration techniques. The overall prevalence of 18.84% was recorded with a higher prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in samples collected from male subjects (23.61%) compared to the female individuals (13.63%) however, there was no statically significant difference (P&gt;0.05) in prevalence between males and females subjects. The intestinal parasites species identified and their respective prevalence were: two species of nematodes; hookworm (26.92%) and Ascaris lumbricoides (46.15), a species of cestode- Taenia saginata (15.38%) and trematode- Schistosoma mansoni (11.58%). Gastrointestinal parasitic infection was higher in male hostel (50.00%) followed by female hostel (13.46%) and the least was recorded from the student village that is those students who live off campus (11.58%) although statistically, there is no significant difference between the location (P&gt;0.05). The study showed that there is a high prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in the study area (especially male hostel) therefore, there is a need to encourage adequate personal hygiene and sanitation. Also, further study should be carried out on the impact of parasitic infection on academic performance of the students.

Burden and factors influencing intestinal parasitic infections among food handlers in Gondar City, Northwest Ethiopia.

Intestinal parasitic infections pose significant global health challenges, particularly in developing countries. Asymptomatic infections often present a considerable burden with food handlers serving as potential carriers. In Ethiopia, the prevalence of these parasites varies across regions, and accurate data in the study area is lacking. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the prevalence of intestinal parasites among food handlers working in hotels and restaurants in Gondar City, Northwest Ethiopia. A cross-sectional study collected stool samples from food handlers alongside a structured questionnaire gathering socio-demographic and hygiene practice information. Stool specimens were screened for intestinal parasites using direct wet mount and formol-ether concentration techniques. The collected data were checked for completeness, entered into EpiData software version 3.1, and exported to SPSS version 20 for analysis. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was deemed statistically significant if the p-value was less than 0.05. A total of 257 food handlers working in hotels and restaurants in Gondar City participated in the study. Of these, 33.5% (86/257) were found positive for one or more intestinal parasites, with a 95% confidence interval (CI) of 28.0-39.5%. The study identified nine types of intestinal parasites, with E. histolytica/dispar (8.2%, 21/257) and Ascaris lumbricoides (6.6%, 17/257) being the predominant parasites, followed by hookworm (3.5%, 9/257) and S. mansoni (2.3%, 6/257). The prevalence of mixed infections was 9.3% (24/257). A significant association was observed between intestinal parasitic infection and the educational level of food handlers. In this study, a high prevalence of intestinal parasites was detected indicating poor hygiene practices of the food handlers at the study site. Even the prevalence of mixed infections was high. Regular training, strict adherence to personal hygiene and food-handling practices, and routine inspections and medical checkups for food handlers are crucial.

Magnitude of intestinal parasitic infections and its determinants among HIV/AIDS patients attending at antiretroviral treatment centers in East and West Gojam Zones, Northwest, Ethiopia: institution based cross-sectional study

BackgroundIntestinal parasitic infections (IP) are a major source of morbidity in people living with Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), particularly in resource-limited settings, mostly as a result of high viral load. Hence, this study aimed to investigate the magnitude of intestinal parasitic infections and its determinants among patients with HIV/AIDS attending public health facilities in East and West Gojam Zones in Ethiopia.MethodsInstitution-based cross-sectional study was conducted on 327 people living with HIV visiting public health facilities from December 2022 to May 2023. A simple random sampling technique was used to recruit participants. Face-to-face interviews were used to collect socio-demographics and determinants. The fresh stool was collected from each patient, transported, and tested in accordance with laboratory standard operating procedures of wet mount, formol-ether concentration technique, and modified acid-fast staining. Data were entered and analyzed in the statistical package for Social Science (SPSS) version 20. A 95% CI with p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.ResultsThe overall prevalence of IP in patients with HIV/AIDS was 19.3% (63/327). Hookworm was the most identified parasite 33.3% (21/63) followed by E.histolytica 17% (11/63) and G.lamblia 14.3% (9/63). Parasitic infections were significantly higher among viral load > 1000cps/ml (p = 0.035), WHO stage 4 (p = 0.002), CD4 < 200 cell/mm3 (p = 0.001), and bare foot walking (p = 0.001).ConclusionIP infections are moderately high among patients with HIV/AIDS in the study area. The proportion of parasites was greatly affected by high viral load, WHO stage 4, CD4 < 200 cell/mm3, and being barefoot; this gives valuable insight to health professionals, health planners and community health workers. As a result, viral load monitoring, and WHO stage controlling were periodically assessed in patients with HIV/AIDS. Health education, awareness creation, routine stool examination, and environmental hygiene were regularly advocated to increase the life of patients with HIV/AIDS.

Prevalence of Salmonella spp., Shigella spp., and intestinal parasites among food handlers working in University of Gondar student's cafeteria, Northwest Ethiopia.

Food-borne infections continue to be a major public health problem at the international level. The issue becomes more serious in developing countries like Ethiopia. This study aimed to examine the prevalence of Salmonella and Shigella species and intestinal parasites, as well as antimicrobial resistance patterns and associated factors among food handlers at the University of Gondar cafeteria in northwest Ethiopia. An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted from February to June 2021 in the University of Gondar cafeterias. Data related to the socio-demographic characteristics and hygienic practices of study participants were collected using structured questionnaires. A total of 290 stool samples were collected from food handlers. Culture and conventional biochemical tests were used to isolate the Salmonella and the Shigella species. Wet mount, Formol-ether concentration, and Kato Katz techniques were applied to identify intestinal parasites. Additionally, drug susceptibility tests were performed using the disk diffusion method. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS version 26. Of 290 food handlers' stool samples analyzed, Twenty-seven 27 (9.3%) were positive for both Salmonella and Shigella species. The prevalence of Salmonella and Shigella species was 16 (5.5%) and 11 (3.8%), respectively. Most of the isolated pathogens were resistant to tetracycline 19 (70.4%), and trimethoprim/sulphamethoxazole 19 (70.4%). The overall rate of multi-drug resistant Shigella and Salmonella isolate was 59.3%. Besides, Fifty-seven 57 (19.7%) of the participants were positive for one or more intestinal parasites. The most prevalent intestinal Parasitosis was E. histolytica/dispar 22 (7.6%), followed by G. lamblia 13 (4.5%), and Ascaris lumbricoides 11 (3.8) not washing hands after using the toilet (AOR: 4.42, 95% CI: 1.57, 10.56), and consuming unpasteurized milk (AOR: 3.14, 95% CI: 1.65, 3.96), were factors significantly associated with the prevalence of Salmonella, and Shigella infection. Similarly, not washing hands after using the toilet (AOR: 2.19, 95% CI: 1.0, 1.4), and consuming unpasteurized milk (AOR: 10.4, 95% CI: 3.8, 28.8), were factors significantly associated with the prevalence of intestinal parasites infection. The prevalence of intestinal parasites, Salmonella, and Shigella species was high. Therefore, it is imperative to implement a public health policy that includes ongoing microbiological surveillance.

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.

Management of paediatric soil-transmitted helminthiasis in a non-endemic area: experience in a reference international health unit.

Soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections inflict disability worldwide, especially in the poorest communities. Current therapeutic options against STHs show limited efficacy, particularly against Trichuris trichiura. The empirical management of patients coming from high-prevalence areas has been suggested for non-endemic areas. This study aimed to describe the management of STH infections in a non-endemic setting using an individualised approach. We performed a retrospective, descriptive study of all patients up to 16years of age with STH infections attended at an international health unit in a non-endemic area (2014-2018), including all T. trichiura, Necator americanus, Ancylostoma duodenale, and Ascaris lumbricoides infections diagnosed using a formol-ether concentration technique and direct visualisation. Patients were treated according to current international guidelines. Sixty-one stool samples from 48 patients testing positive for STHs were collected, with 96% (46/48) reporting a previous long-term stay in endemic areas. Cure rates with 3-day benzimidazole regimens were 72% for T. trichiura, 40% for hookworms, and 83% for A. lumbricoides. The results were not influenced by any reinfection risk due to the study being performed in a non-endemic area. Patients coming from STH-endemic areas should be evaluated with appropriate diagnostic tools and followed up until cure control results. Cure rates in our cohort were moderate to low, similar to those published in studies in endemic areas. The efficacy of current treatment options is insufficient to recommend a specific empirical approach in high-income countries' healthcare systems.

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.

Influence of tides on the dissemination and related health risks of intestinal helminths along the Kribi beaches (Atlantic Coast, Southern Cameroon).

Kribi is a seaside town that welcomes thousands of tourists each year. However, the poor sanitation condition of its beaches along the Atlantic coast is not without risk for visitors. In this study, we used the formol-ether concentration technique to identify and quantify larvae or eggs of intestinal helminths in waters of three regularly visited Kribi beaches (Mpalla, Ngoyè, and Mboamanga). Results revealed that all identified larvae and eggs were cestodes (Hymenolepis nana) and nematodes (Strongyloides sp., Ascaris sp., Ancylostoma duodenale and Trichuris trichiura). All the helminth eggs and larvae showed high abundance at low tide during rainy seasons. Ancylostoma duodenale eggs, totally absent at Mpalla, were densely present at low tide at Ngoyè (301 ± 15 eggs/L). Trichuris trichiura eggs showed the lowest abundance (0 to 62 eggs/L) at all sites. Abiotic variables indicated that waters at the various beaches were basic (pH: 8.75-9.77), generally warmer (32.44°C at Mpalla in the Short Rainy Season), more oxygenated at low tide, and moderately mineralized at high tide. Positive and significant correlations were observed at Ngoyè at low tide between Strongyloides sp. larvae and dissolved oxygen (P ˂ 0.05); and between Ancylostoma duodenale eggs and temperature (P ˂ 0.05). The overall results indicated that the beaches studied are subjected to fecal pollution. This pollution is more accentuated during low tides than during high tides. Depending on tidal movements, swimmers risk exposure to helminth eggs and larvae known to be responsible for gastroenteritis.

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.

High Specificity but Low Sensitivity of Lab-on-a-Disk Technique in Detecting Soil-Transmitted Helminth Eggs among Pre- and School-Aged Children in North-Western Tanzania.

An estimated 1.5 billion people are infected with soil-transmitted helminths (hookworms, Ascaris lumbricoides and Trichuris trichiura). These infections are targeted for elimination by the World Health Organization (WHO) by 2030, with the main interventions being mass drug administration using albendazole or mebendazole. Tanzania is one of the endemic countries; it has been implementing MDA to school-aged children for more than a decade and the infection prevalence and intensity of infection have declined. Thus, at this point, the monitoring and evaluation of infection prevalence and intensity of infections, and assessing drug efficacy is crucial and requires accurate diagnostic tests. The currently used standard diagnostic test, the Kato-Katz (KK) technique, has several limitations and the WHO is calling for the development and evaluation of new diagnostic tests. The Lab-on-a-disk (LOD) was developed and tested in the endemic areas of north-western Tanzania to evaluate its sensitivity and specificity using KK and the formol-ether concentration technique. The results showed that when using a duplicate KK slide, the LOD had a sensitivity and specificity of 37.2% (95% CI: 30.7-43.9) and 67.3% (95% CI: 63.1-71.3%). Using four KK slides as a standard technique, the overall sensitivity and specificity were 37.7% (95% CI: 33.1-42.6) and 70.7% (95% CI: 65.5-75.6). The LOD attained high specificity but low sensitivity especially in detecting eggs of Trichuris trichiura. The LOD technique has potential as a promising diagnostic test, but its sensitivity still requires improvement.

Prevalence of Schistosomiasis and Soil-Transmitted Helminthiasis and Their Risk Factors: A Cross-Sectional Study in Itilima District, North-Western Tanzania.

Schistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminthiasis remain a public health concern in Tanzania. This study investigated the prevalence and intensities of Schistosoma haematobium, S. mansoni, and soil-transmitted helminths and associated factors in Itilima district, north-western Tanzania. A cross-sectional survey was conducted between August and September 2020 among 3779 primary schoolchildren in 62 primary schools and 1122 adults in 19 villages. Urine samples were obtained from each participant and examined visually for the presence of macrohaematuria, microhaematuria, and S. haematobium eggs using a urine dipstick and urine filtration test. A single stool sample was obtained from each participant and screened for S. mansoni and soil-transmitted helminths using the Kato Katz and formalin-ether concentration techniques. A questionnaire was administered to schoolchildren to elucidate the risk factors for schistosomiasis. The overall prevalence of S. haematobium in adults was 8.1% (95% confidence interval (CI), 6.6-9.8%). In total, 3779 schoolchildren had complete results from urine testing, and the overall prevalence of S. haematobium was 10.1% (95% CI, 9.1-11.1%). The prevalence of S. mansoni and soil-transmitted helminths was relatively low among both children and adults compared to S. haematobium. Factors associated with S. haematobium infection among schoolchildren were the mother's occupation, children aged 11-15 years, and water contact behaviour. The odds of having schistosomiasis infection among children aged 11-15 are 40% higher than those aged 5-10 (95% confidence interval (CI), 10-80%, p = 0.04). Children of parents who are livestock keepers have 12.3 times higher odds of having infection compared to those who have small-scale businesses (95% CI, 1.0-5.4, p = 0.03). Children who are in contact with infested water more than three times a week have 2.1 times higher odds of having an infection compared to those who do not (95% CI, 2.1; 1.6-2.8, p < 0.001). The findings provide updated geographical information on prevalence, yielding insights into the planning and implementation of mass drug administration in rural Tanzania.

Enteric Protozoan Parasitosis and Associated Factors among Patients with and without Diabetes Mellitus in a Teaching Hospital in Ghana.

Enteric protozoa infections (EPIs) could worsen clinical outcomes in patients with diabetes mellitus and therefore requires prompt and accurate diagnosis and attention. This study aimed to determine the burden of EPIs and their associated factors among patients with and without diabetics at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) in Ghana. Again, the diagnostic performance of parasitological techniques routinely used for diagnosis was assessed. A total of 240 participants (made up of 140 patients with diabetes and 100 patients without diabetes) were recruited into the study by simple random sampling from November 2020 to May 2021. Stool samples of participants were collected, along with their demographic information, and examined using the saline direct wet mount (DWM), formol-ether concentration (FEC), and modified Ziehl-Neelsen staining (ZNS) techniques for the presence of enteric protozoans. Enteric protozoa were found among 62/140 (44.3%) diabetic patients and 13/100 (13.0%) nondiabetic patients. The predominant protozoa identified were Cryptosporidium spp. (17.86%) among patients with diabetes and Blastocystis hominis (7.0%) among patients without diabetes. EPI was associated with diabetes mellitus status (AOR = 3.48, 95% CI, 1.55-7.79), having diabetes for more than five years (AOR = 3.83, 95% CI, 1.65-8.86) and having comorbidity (AOR = 2.93, 95% CI, 1.33-6.45). The FEC technique had the highest sensitivity (100.0%), specificity 94.3% (95% CI, 91.35-97.22), and accuracy 95.0% (95% CI, 88.54-98.13) when compared to other techniques for diagnosis. EPIs are a significant health problem among patients with diabetes at KATH, and therefore antiparasitic drugs should be included in their treatment protocols for better health outcomes. Again, the FEC technique has demonstrated better performance in detecting EPIs and is therefore recommended to achieve early and accurate diagnosis of EPIs.

Prevalence of Fasciola Infection in Cattle- Ready- for -Slaughtering at some Abattoirs in Oyo, Oyo State, Nigeria

Fascioliasis is one of the most prevalent and economically significant parasitic illnesses of domestic animals, particularly cattle, sheep, goats, and man. It is particularly widespread in countries with heavy cattle production especially places with low interest in vector-related diseases. Therefore, the study was designed to investigate the prevalence of this parasitic disease among the cattle slaughtered in the selected abattoirs in Oyo, Oyo State, Nigeria. Two hundred and fifty (250) faecal samples were collected from the rectum of the slaughtered cattle. The samples were analyzed using the Formol-ether Concentration technique. Also, post mortem examination of the liver and other organs of the slaughtered cattle (250) at the abbattior were also examined for Fasciola infestation. The data were were analyzed with Chi-square at 5% level of significance using SPSS. It was observed that 77 (30.8%) were positive to fascioliasis out of the 250 slaughtered cattle examined. The prevalence of the infection based on the sex of the cattle was found to be statistically significant (p = 0.001).The percentage of fascioliasis depending on the breed of the cattle was observed to be lowest (25%) in Sokoto Gudali and highest (33.33%) in White Fulani. The analysis implied that there was a strong association between infection and cattle breeds. Prevalence of fascioliasis based on the estimated age of animals was not statistically significant however; animals aged 3 years and 6 months had the highest percentage (54.1%) while those within 2 years and 6 months had no cases of fascioliasis. Fascioliasis is an endemic illness in the study area among cattle slaughtered for consumption. This suggests the possibility of human infestation through consumption especially when it is under-processed. The need for health policy to ensure slaughtering of healthy cattle become important to ensure safe public health especially through consumption of meat. Also, public health intervention through mass vaccination of cattle, education of cattle farmers and introduction of veterinary inspectors at the point of slaughter is important in controlling Fascioliasis.

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.