Hookworm Research Articles

Hygiene and Sanitation Factors Affecting Contamination of Soil-Transmitted Helminths in Household Water Sources in Jember, Indonesia

Background: Water sources used by households are at risk of contamination by soil-transmitted helminths (STH). Hygiene and sanitation have an essential role in the transmission and contamination of STH. The objective of this study was to analyze whether there was an association between hygiene and sanitation factors with STH contamination in household water sources in Jember Regency, East Java Province, Indonesia.Methods: This cross-sectional analytic study was carried out from December 2020 to March 2021, including 46 samples from 23 respondents in Sukowono District and 23 respondents in Sukorambi District, Jember Regency, selected using a purposive sampling technique. Primary data on hygiene and sanitation risk factors were obtained from questionnaire interviews. The STH contamination in household water sources was examined by sedimentation and flotation methods. Data were analyzed using Fisher Exact test.Results: The identification of STH contamination in household water sources using microscope examination found hookworm species contaminated 8.7% (n=4) of water sources. There was a significant association between the type of human sewage disposal with STH contamination in household water sources (p=0.037). There was no association between hygiene and other sanitation factors with STH contamination in household water sources (p>0.05).Conclusions: Human sewage disposal that goes directly to sewers and rivers can cause contamination of water sources by STH. Therefore, it is important to dispose of human waste in septic tanks that comply with health requirements to prevent the transmission of STH to humans through water sources.

Soil Contamination and Infection of School Children by Soil-Transmitted Helminths and Associated Factors at Kola Diba Primary School, Northwest Ethiopia: An Institution-Based Cross-Sectional Study.

Background Soil-transmitted helminths (STHs) are among the most prevalent parasitic worms infecting humans worldwide. They are still a major public health concern in the developing world, school-age children being the most affected segment of the population. Soil polluted with parasite ova and/or infective larvae is a source of human parasitic infections. There is a substantial shift in the notion of sanitation in many countries, and control of STHs contamination in the environment is becoming an emerging topic of research. However, data are scarce on the extent of soil contamination with STHs in Ethiopia in general and the study area in particular. Objective This study aimed to determine the prevalence of STHs in soil, and school children and associated factors at Kola Diba primary school, Northwest Ethiopia. Methods A school-based cross-sectional study was conducted in 2020 at Kola Diba primary school. A systematic random sampling technique was used to select 400 participants. About 150 soil samples were collected. A structured Amharic version questionnaire was used to collect data on sociodemographic variables and the factors associated with STH infection. Two grams of stool specimen was processed using the Kato-Katz technique. Data were entered and analyzed using STATA version 14.1. Binary and multiple logistic regressions were performed, and P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Result The overall prevalence of soil-transmitted helminths was 50.0% with Ascaris lumbricoides (26.2%), hookworm species (16.5%), and Trichuris trichiura (3.5%). The overall soil contamination rate was 13.3% with A. lumbricoides (9.3%) and T. trichiura (4.0%). No habit of handwashing after toilet (AOR; 2.2, 95%CI: 1.3–3.6, P value = 0.002), no habit of regular shoe-wearing (AOR; 3.7, 95%CI: 2.1–6.2, P value <0.001), untrimmed fingernail status (AOR; 4.3, 95%CI: 2.6–7.1, P value <0.001), and playing with soil (AOR; 3.5, 95%CI: 2.2–5.7, P value <0.001) were significantly associated with STHs infection. Conclusion The prevalence of STHs remains high among primary school children, with a considerable soil contamination rate. No habit of handwashing after defecation, untrimmed fingernail status, and no habit of regular shoe-wearing and playing with soil were significantly associated with the STHs infections.

Puerperal Septic Fever and Helminthosis in a 5-Year-Old German Shepherd Bitch

Puerperium is a period post-partum characterized by physiological changes whereby the upper and lower reproductive tracts of the female genital system progressively tries to histologically and endocrinologically return to its pre-gravid state and the period is accompanied by adequate uterine tone for lochia elimination and epithelial regeneration (Voorwald and Tiosso, 2015). Normally, during puerperium the bitch exhibit initially greenish discharge (due to marginal haematoma), then serosanguinous vaginal discharge for 1–6 weeks being the time considered, as the time of normal uterine involution (Feldman and Nelson, 1986). In the first three weeks brownish, non-odorous lochia will be discharged from the vulva, gradually decreasing in volume after the first week (Von Heimendahl et al., 2009). In bitches, the normal uterine involution requires more and adequate time compared to other species due to its nature of the endothelial placentation and deep uterine wounds created at placentation sites after detachment (Al-Bassam et al., 1981). The duration of the puerperium/periparturient period in the bitch has been defined to be 12 weeks (Al-Bassam et al., 1981, Orfanou et al., 2009) or 15 weeks (Yeager et al., 1990). The Bitch, being a monoestrous, polytococcus, non-seasonal animal has a physiological anestrous stage that lasts between 15 to 30 weeks following either parturition (whelping) or diestrous which is characterized by normal quiescence of the gonads and the tubular reproductive tracts. The peripaturient period that occurs during the anaestrous stage of the reproductive/oestrous cycle of the bitch is very delicate and animals are usually susceptible to varying pathological conditions owing to stress and increased demands from the environment and the newborns. For this reason, follow-up of uterine involution is essential to ensure future reproductive capacity/fertility, since failure to complete reproductive organs regression can lead to endometritis, metritis and placental retention (Hirt et al., 2000; Magata et al., 2013). Many assumptions were raised due to lots of biological activities such as nursing of the puppies, uterine involution, milk production and hormonal changes that take place during postpartum period. Thus, bitches are supposed to be more susceptible to pathologic conditions and therefore, it is important to monitor vital functions, appetite and behaviour of postpartum bitches on a daily basis to enable early detection of illness (Grundy and Davidson, 2004). Increase demand in lactation/milk production may predispose the bitch to hypocalcaemia (puerperal tetany) during this period and also a few days post whelping the cervix is physiologically open, paving ways for ascending uterine infection by pyogenic microbes which may lead to septicemia. Thus, a good health surveillance by both the owners and veterinarians is of paramount significance.Infestation of the gastro-intestinal tract and other organs of the animal body by both the adult and immature stages of endo-parasitic helminths is well documented in dogs, especially in newly whelped or neonates and it constitute one of the main causes of pathologies of the intestinal tract in dogs (Blagburn et al., 1996). The life cycle of the many occurring canine helminth species usually involved a vertical transmission from the dam to her offspring. The route of vertical transmission can be: prenatal (e.g Toxocara canis), lactogenic (e.g Ancylostoma caninum, Strongyloides stercoralis) or via coprophagy (Echinococcus multilocularis, Filaroides hirthi, Oslems osleri). Hypobiosis or developmental arrest allows for certain and specific life-cycle stages of the helminthic parasites (mostly L3) to be temporary in-activated in the somatic tissues of the host until the condition for survival is conducive. Such occurs mostly during pregnancy or when the immunity of the host is severely compromised (Shoop, 1999). The L3 re-activates during gestation and is transmitted to the offspring or neonates via milk during puerperal period, the parasites then infest the intestinal tract of the neonates and cause pathologies such as protein loss, diarrhea, obstruction of lumen, iron-deficiency anaemia (especially hook worms) and mortality in unattended condition (Cromptom, 1989).

Parasitic Contamination of Fresh Fruits Sold at Fruit Markets in Selected Local Government Areas of Lagos State, Nigeria

Aim: The purpose of this research was to examine selected fruits sold within the state of Lagos and to assess their level of contamination by parasites.&#x0D; Methodology: It was carried out in Amuwo Odofin, Alimosho and Ojo Local Government Areas of Lagos State between April 2021 and July 2021. A total of hundred fruits were randomly purchased from three markets in the study areas. Samples collected included Apple (Malus domestica)(n =20), Grapefruit (Citrus maxima)(n =20), Golden melon (Cucumis melo)(n =20), Mango (Mangifera indica)(n =20), and Pear (Pyrus communis)(n =20). Laboratory analysis was done by using a light microscope to examine sediments gotten from washing the fruits with saline solution. Chi- square test of independence was also calculated to determine the relationship between the fruit type and parasite occurrence.&#x0D; Results: Out of 100 samples collected, 74% were contaminated with 41% having a single contamination while 33% had multiple contamination. The apple was the most contaminated fruit with 85% of the fruit positive while golden melon was the least contaminated as only 60% of the fruit were positive. The parasites identified were Ascaris lumbricoides (71%), Entamoeba histolytica (18%), Enterobius vermicularis (10%), Giardia lamblia (16%), Hookworm species (44%), Strongyloides stercoralis (4%), Taenia species(1%) Trichuris trichiuria (11%), and Toxoplasma gondii (3%). A chi-square test of independence could not determine any significant relationship between parasite occurrence and market as well as fruit type and parasite occurrence.&#x0D; Conclusion: The percentage of contaminated fruits in this study is high and this is strong evidence that fruit contributes to the spread of parasites within Lagos State. It is recommended that proper sanitation and hygienic practices should be observed from the cultivation of the fruits on the farm till they are put on display at the market. Fruits bought at markets should also be washed properly before consumption.

Appropriateness of the current parasitological control target for hookworm morbidity: A statistical analysis of individual-level data.

BackgroundSoil-transmitted helminths affect almost 2 billion people globally. Hookworm species contribute to most of the related morbidity. Hookworms mainly cause anaemia, due to blood loss at the site of the attachment of the adult worms to the human intestinal mucosa. The World Health Organization (WHO) aims to eliminate hookworm morbidity by 2030 through achieving a prevalence of moderate and heavy intensity (M&HI) infections below 2%. In this paper, we aim to assess the suitability of this threshold to reflect hookworm-attributable morbidity.Methodology/Principal findingsWe developed a hierarchical statistical model to simulate individual haemoglobin concentrations in association with hookworm burdens, accounting for low haemoglobin values attributable to other causes. The model was fitted to individual-level data within a Bayesian framework. Then, we generated different endemicity settings corresponding to infection prevalence ranging from 10% to 90% (0% to 55% M&HI prevalence), using 1, 2 or 4 Kato-Katz slides. For each scenario, we estimated the prevalence of anaemia due to hookworm. Our results showed that on average, haemoglobin falls below the WHO threshold for anaemia when intensities are above 2000 eggs per gram of faeces. For the different simulated scenarios, the estimated prevalence of anaemia attributable to hookworm ranges from 0% to 30% (95%-PI: 24% - 36%) being mainly associated to the prevalence of M&HI infections. Simulations show that a 2% prevalence of M&HI infections in adults corresponds to a prevalence of hookworm-attributable anaemia lower than 1%.Conclusions/SignificanceOur results support the use of the current WHO thresholds of 2% prevalence of M&HI as a proxy for hookworm morbidity. A single Kato-Katz slide may be sufficient to assess the achievement of the morbidity target. Further studies are needed to elucidate haemoglobin dynamics pre- and post- control, ideally using longitudinal data in adults and children.

Human hookworms from Argentina: Differential diagnosis of Necator americanus and Ancylostoma duodenale in endemic populations from Buenos Aires and Misiones

Hookworm infection is endemic in many countries throughout the world; however, the information about the prevalence of each species, Necatoramericanus and Ancylostomaduodenale, is inaccurate in many South American countries. We aimed to determine the prevalence of human hookworm species by combining the results of both microscopy and PCR among endemic populations in Argentina, represented by natives and immigrants. A total of 140 serial fecal specimens were obtained from natives in the province of Misiones and an immigrant community living in the province of Buenos Aires. Samples were examined using the formalin-ethyl acetate concentration technique (FECT) and one flotation technique (screening tests) and specific PCRs for N. americanus and A. duodenale. We characterized samples containing N. americanus by sequencing a fragment of the cytochrome b gene. The observed hookworm prevalence as assessed by the screening tests and PCR were 24.3% and 32.8%, respectively. PCR positive samples were identified as N. americanus. PCR had 100% sensitivity compared with 73.9% of screening tests. A total of 12 samples from individuals with hookworm-infected household members were positive only by PCR. N. americanus sequences showed 90.5% identity, being more similar to each other than to any of the sequences obtained from GenBank. This is the first study that provides molecular data and characterization of N. americanus in Argentina. The complementary use of FECT and one flotation technique to screen hookworm infections, followed by PCR to differentiate the species contribute to produce better prevalence estimates.

Using quantitative PCR to identify opportunities to strengthen soil-transmitted helminth control in Solomon Islands: A cross-sectional epidemiological survey

BackgroundThe Kato-Katz microscopy technique is the global standard for assessment of soil-transmitted helminth (STH) burden. However, major limitations include its poor sensitivity, requirement for rapid sample processing, and inability to differentiate hookworm species nor detect Strongyloides spp. infections. We assessed the prevalence and intensity of STH species in Solomon Islands by conducting a province-wide survey using quantitative PCR (qPCR) for diagnosis, which can provide much better characterisation of STH burden than microscopy.Methodology/Principal findingsWe conducted a cross-sectional survey in 18 villages in Western Province to detect infections with six STH species and quantify intensity with three. We used linear mixed model regression to identify potential water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) and environmental risk factors for infection. We collected stool specimens from 830 village residents. Overall STH prevalence was 63.3% (range 27.5 to 91.5% across villages), led by Necator americanus (54.5% [range 17.5–89.4%]), followed by Ancylostoma ceylanicum (15.5% [range 2.8–45.8%]), Trichuris trichiura (9.1% [range 0–79.2%]), and Strongyloides spp. (3.2% [range 0–29.2%]). Most infections were of light intensity for N. americanus (85.7%) and T. trichiura (90.7%). Owning a household latrine was associated with a lower risk of N. americanus infection (AOR 0.41, 95% CI 0.24–0.68) while greater precipitation was linked to more common T. trichiura infection (AOR 1.14, 95% CI 1.04–1.25).Conclusion/SignificanceIn this first large-scale population survey of STH in the Pacific using qPCR, we found evidence that ivermectin should be incorporated into STH control programmes because of the presence of T. trichiura and Strongyloides spp., both of which are poorly responsive to albendazole. Furthermore, One Health strategies are needed for improved A. ceylanicum and Strongyloides spp. control, WASH access and use should be improved to complement deworming programmes, and control efforts should ideally be expanded to entire communities.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12618001086257.

Community-wide prevalence and intensity of soil-transmitted helminthiasis and Schistosoma mansoni in two districts of Sierra Leone.

In Sierra Leone, nationally powered school-based surveys have documented significant progress in the control of soil-transmitted helminthiasis (STH) and schistosomiasis. In order to assess the district-level prevalence and intensity of infection among key at-risk groups outside of school age children (SAC), we conducted a multi-stage, cluster-sample household survey in Bo and Kenema districts in May 2018. From both districts, we examined 1,282 pre-school age children (PSAC), 730 school age children (SAC), and 517 adults over 14 years (including 387 women of reproductive age, or WRA) for STH and Schistosoma mansoni infection using Kato Katz technique. In Bo, STH prevalence was 8.0% (95% Upper Confidence Limit 10.2%) in PSAC, 6.4% (95% Upper Confidence Limit 9.0%) in SAC, 14.1% (95% Upper Confidence Limit 17.4%) in all adults and 11.9% (95% Upper Confidence Limit 17.4%) in WRA. In Kenema, STH prevalence was 18.1% (95% Upper Confidence Limit 20.5%) in PSAC, 17.3% (95% Upper Confidence Limit 20.7%) in SAC, and 16.9% (95% Upper Confidence Limit 20.5%) in all adults and 16.9% (95% Upper Confidence Limit 22.6%) in WRA. Hookworm species were the most prevalent of STH in both districts overall. The overall prevalence of S. mansoni was <10% in Bo and <20% in Kenema, and was similar across age groups. No moderate or heavy intensity STH infections or heavy intensity S. mansoni infections, as per World Health Organization (WHO) classification, were detected in either district. Sanitation variables, such as toilet access and quality, were independently associated with STH and S. mansoni infection. In Kenema, STH prevalence in SAC was within the WHO-defined range for annual treatment, whereas a previous nationally-powered survey estimated it to lie within the range of treatment once per two years. By utilizing community-based sampling, we were able to assess prevalence among WRA and make recommendations based on current guidance from WHO. To continue toward elimination of STH and S. mansoni as a public health problem, resources should be mobilized to increase access to and uptake of improved sanitation at community and household levels.

Prevalence of hookworm infections among stray dogs and molecular identification of hookworm species for the first time in Bangladesh.

Hookworms are the most common and voracious blood-sucking parasites of the small intestines of mammalian hosts such as dogs, cats, ruminants and humans. Canine hookworms are endemic in the Southeast Asian countries including Bangladesh. There is scarcity of information on the prevalence of hookworms of stray dogs in Bangladesh. The present study determined the prevalence of canine hookworms using fecal examination followed by morphometric and molecular identification. Fecal samples were collected from 320 stray dogs living in rural areas of Mymensingh district (Gauripur upazila, Mymensingh sadar upazila and Tarakanda upazila) and hookworm eggs were identified using the flotation techniques. The overall prevalence of hookworm was 79.1% through microscopic examination. Estimated fecal prevalence was higher in Gauripur upazila (89.7%) followed by Mymensingh sadar upazila (84.8%) and Tarakanda upazila (53.2%). Five hookworm species were identified based on the morphometric examination, namely, Ancylostoma caninum, Ancylostoma ceylanicum, Ancylostoma tubaeforme, Ancylostoma braziliense and Ancylostoma duodenale, respectively. Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) was performed with the genomic DNA by targeting the 5.8S rRNA (~ 404bp) and Cytochrome oxidase-1 (Cox 1, ~ 450bp) and confirmed the identification for the first time in Bangladesh. This study reveals that stray dogs may act as reservoir hosts of human hookworm infection. Further detail molecular study is warranted to explore the genetic diversity of hookworms that infect both dogs and human in Bangladesh.

Modified Nonnutrient Agar Plate Culture for the Diagnosis of Strongyloides stercoralis and Hookworm Infections in La-Ngu District, Satun Province, Southern Thailand.

Due to the low prevalence and light intensity of Strongyloides stercoralis (S. stercoralis, Ss) and hookworm (HW) in Thailand, an increase in the efficacy of detection with the appropriate diagnosis is needed. This cross-sectional survey is aimed at using modified nonnutrient agar plate culture (mNNAPC) to assess the prevalence of S. stercoralis and hookworm infections and to report intestinal parasitic infections in La-Ngu villagers, Satun Province in Southern Thailand. We used wet smear, modified Harada-Mori filter paper culture (mHMFPC), and mNNAPC to investigate 204 villagers (4 villages) between August 2016 and January 2017. The combination of mHMFPC and mNNAPC raised the prevalence of S. stercoralis and hookworm infections among the study population from 3.4% and 1.0% to 6.9% and 2.5%, respectively. There were no significant differences between demographic characteristics and these infections (p < 0.05). Three types of protozoal infections, Blastocystis spp. (2.9%), Entamoeba histolytica-like (0.5%), and Giardia duodenalis (0.5%), and 3 species of helminthic infections, S. stercoralis (6.9%) (14 cases), hookworm 2.5%, and Enterobius vermicularis 0.5%, were demonstrated in this area. The mNNAPC showed the highest efficacy in detecting both parasites (Ss 92.9% and HW 80%), whereas the wet smear detected none.

Prevalence of soil-transmitted helminth infection among children under 2\u2009years from urban and rural settings in Ogun state, Nigeria: implication for control strategy

BackgroundPre-school-aged children are always excluded in mass intervention policies for control of soil-transmitted helminths in Nigera. The need for evidence on infectivity of children in this age group cannot be overemphasized. This study seeks to determine the prevalence of STH among 103 children who are less than 2 years of age in an urban and rural area of Ogun State, Nigeria. This study through questionnaire administration also obtained relevant demographic information and hygiene behavior from parents of children recruited to this study.ResultsThe overall prevalence of 69.9% was recorded, with Ascaris lumbricoides occurring as the most prevalent helminth (68.0%). This was followed by Hook worm (49.5%) and Trichris trichuria (18.5%). A significant increase in prevalence of hookworm was observed with increase in age (p < 0.05). Generally, A. Lumbricoides was found to be more prevalent as a single infection in the study population. Most of the T. Trichuria and hookworm infections were either in co-infections infections with A. Lumbricoides. The prevalence of A. Lumbricoides and Hookworm were significantly high in rural community when compared with urban (p < 0.05). Poor hygiene practices were common among the study participants.ConclusionsThe prevalence of STH infection is incredibly high in this age group that was for a long time considered as less important when it comes to burden due to STH. Therefore, there is a need to include them into future plans for control interventions.

Parasitological Assessment of Sewage Sludge Samples for Potential Agricultural Reuse in Tunisia.

Wastewater sludge represents an important resource for reuse in agriculture. However, potentially harmful pathogens are a main threat in this context. Thus, the aim of this study was to examine the presence of helminth ova and protozoan cysts in dried sewage sludge samples collected from ten wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) located in eight governorates in Tunisia. Based on morphological criteria, protozoan cysts of Giardia spp., Entamoeba histolytica/dispar/moshkovskii, and Entamoeba coli, were detected in all dried sludge composite samples (N = 116) from the investigated WWTPs. The mean concentration ranged from 1.4 to 10.7 cysts per 100 g dry matter (DM). The identified helminth eggs were Ascaris spp., Strongyles, Taeniid eggs, Hymenolepis nana, Enterobius vermicularis, and hookworm species. Ascaris spp. and Taeniid eggs were detected in 56.9 and 74.1% of analyzed samples, respectively. The presence of Trichuris spp., Hymenolepis diminuta, and Toxocara spp. eggs in dried sewage sludge samples was low (0.9, 1.7, and 2.6%, respectively). The mean concentration of helminth eggs during the three-year study was less than 1 egg/100 g DM. All examined dried sewage sludge sample contents were below the WHO (2006) and US EPA (2003) recommendations, and thus, the sludge can potentially be reused in agriculture.

Occurrence of Hookworm and the First Molecular and Morphometric Identification of Uncinaria stenocephala in Dogs in Central Europe.

Hookworms are hematophagous parasitic nematodes that occur in the intestinal tract of various mammals, including humans. The objective of this work was to develop a two-step morphology-molecular analysis-based strategy to identify the genus and the species of eggs and larvae of the Ancylostomatidae family in dogs, which were kept in various living conditions in Slovakia. Faecal samples were collected from 270 dogs kept in two different shelters (160 samples) and in a marginalised Roma community (110 samples). Faecal samples were processed using the flotation method. Microscopically positive faecal samples with hookworm eggs were subjected to a coproculture and the hatched larvae were identified morphometrically, prior to molecular testing. The faecal samples with hookworm´s eggs and individual larvae were identified by a molecular assay based on the amplification of the 18S ribosomal RNA gene fragment. Further, species-specific primer sets were designed for the internal transcribed spacer (ITS 1 region) and the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COX1) gene section. Hookworm eggs were microscopically detected in 9.6% (26/270) of the total number of faecal samples. The prevalence in the Roma settlement was higher, 14.5% (16/110), than in shelters, 6.3% (10/160). Using PCR and subsequent Sanger sequencing, we identified the canine hookworm species Uncinaria stenocephala in all positive samples. Our results have provided new data on the molecular identification of the neglected species U. stenocephala affecting dogs in Slovakia and supplemented the missing information on the prevalence and incidence of hookworms in dogs in Europe.

Risk factors associated with intestinal pathogenic parasites in schoolchildren

Diseases caused by intestinal parasites impose a substantial burden on population of middle income countries including Pakistan. This research was aimed to assess the risk factors for intestinal parasites in school children of Malakand, Pakistan. Two hundred and eighty eight students were enrolled between February and June 2016. Out of the total enrolled 184 were agreed to collect stool specimens. A questionnaire was also used to collect the data on socio-demographic and socio-economic characteristics of the participants. All the students were guided to collect at least 10gof their own stool specimens. Each of the stool specimens was diagnosed for the presence of any stage of helminth or protozoal parasites. Formal ether concentration method and wet mount techniques were applied. One way ANOVA was used for calculation of P value when it was less than 0.05 which was considered significant. Eighty two percent of the participants were found infected with one species of parasite while 69.9% of the participants were infected with more than one species of intestinal parasites. The most prevalent parasite was hook worm 33.4% (n = 99/296) followed by Taenia saginata 28.7% (n = 85/296), Ascaris lumbricoides 27.7% (n = 82/296), Hymenolepis nana 6.08% (n = 18/296), Entamoeba histolytica 3.37% (n = 10/296) and least for each Enterobius vermicularis and Fasciola hepatica 0.37% (n = 1/296). Previously used drugs, level in school, ages, weight and upper arm circumference were the most significantly (P < 0.05) related factors for the occurrence of intestinal parasite infection. Present research endorsed that risk factors play a key role in the transmission of parasitic diseases. Lack of safe water supply, using raw vegetables, animal keeping, which should be considered for sustainable strategies in the control of these infections preferably in remote parts of the world.

Evaluation of vegetables grown in dry mountainous regions for soil transmitted helminths contamination.

Infection caused by geo-helminth parasites are called geohelminthiasis are one of the global health problems. Vegetables eaten raw is the principal source of transmission of geo-helminth parasites. Pakistani people believe that eating raw vegetables are a significant source to get important vitamins and minerals. Based on the high incidence of pathogenic parasites and cultivating different vegetable types in the study areas, we conducted this study to evaluate the geo-helminth contamination of raw vegetables in northwest Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. This is a descriptive study comprised, 1942 samples of 25 various types of vegetables. The samples were examined in physiological saline solution using sedimentation and centrifugation methods. The findings were analyzed by Graph-Pad version 5. P value less than 0.05 (95% CI) was considered significant. Results showed that 16.5% (n=322) of all vegetables were contaminated with one or more type of geo-helminth parasites. Garlic was the highest (35%) and cauliflower the lowest (4%) contaminated samples respectively. Ascaris lumbricoides was the most common geo-helminth found followed by hook worm species while Trichuris trichura was the least in all the vegetable samples. Leafy vegetables were highly contaminated 25.3% than vegetables with root parts 21.2% and fruity 9.09%. More than half of the contaminated vegetables were contaminated with single species of geo-helminth (P<0.05) while less than half with multiple types of geo-helminth contamination. Ninety two vegetables samples were contaminated with 2 species of parasites (P<0.05) and 45 with 3 (P>0.05) species of geo-helminth parasites. Education level of vendors and means of display were not significantly associated while types of vegetable used were significantly associated with the prevalence of parasites. The findings of this study provide evidence that consumption of raw vegetable has a high risk of acquiring geo-helminth infections. The authors believe that preventing the human to enter to the vegetable farmland for defecation, avoiding the irrigation of agricultural fields via night soil, and educating the people on proper washing and cooking of vegetables may be useful in reducing parasitic infections.

Molecular identification of hookworm species infecting free-roaming and owned dogs from an urban area in inner São Paulo State, Brazil.

Dogs are the most popular pet animals worldwide, but on the other hand, they are main hosts of pathogens potentially transmissible to humans. The aim of this study was to assess the occurrence of intestinal parasites in free- roaming and owned dogs in an urban area in southeastern Brazil and to identify the hookworm species infecting them. Faecal samples (80 from free-roaming and 53 from owned dogs) were examined for intestinal parasites using concentration methods. DNA extracted from hookworm microscopy-positive samples were tested by PCR targeting the ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 region and the amplicons retrieved were sequenced. Intestinal parasites were detected in 43.60% (58/133) of the dogs and hookworm infection was found at the highest prevalence rate (38.30%), followed by Toxocara canis (10.50%), Trichuris vulpis (2.25%), Giardia spp. (0.75%) and Cystoisospora spp. (0.75%). Out of the 51 samples positive for hookworm eggs, 26 (50.90%) were successfully amplified and sequenced. Single infections with Ancylostoma caninum and Ancylostoma braziliense were recorded in 18 (69.20%) and two (7.70%) isolates, respectively, and mixed infections were found in the remaining six samples (23.10%). Both species were found infecting free-roaming and owned animals, but A. caninum was more common. These findings highlight the public health relevance of dogs as reservoirs of zoonotic parasites, with emphasis on hookworm species commonly implicated in cutaneous larva migrans (CLM) in poor and deprived areas.

Prevalence and associated risk factors of common intestinal parasitic infections of helminthes among the asymptomatic primary school children at Woldia Town, North Wollo Zone, Amhara Region, in Ethiopia

Background: Intestinal worm infestation is a global health problem and serious concern for the third world countries. The most common intestinal parasites of helminthes that inhabit in human gut include Nematodes (roundworms) and Platyhelminthes (Cestodes and trematodes) which are wide spread throughout the world. Prevention and control of all parasitic infections including helminthes require research work based on the identification of parasites and associated predisposing factors. Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and associated risk factors of intestinal parasitic infections of helminthes among the asymptomatic primary school children at Woldia town, North Wollo Zone North Eastern Ethiopia. Methods: The study design was school based cross sectional study from November 2019 to February 2020. The technique of sampling was simple random sampling method and the sample size was computed based on the formula proposed by single population proportion to include 442 study participants. The method of data collection was laboratory microscopic stool examination using direct wet mount and formol-ether concentration technique and the structured questionnaires about the associated risk factors and sociodemographic factors. Analysis of the data was made manually using the thematic framework method including the descriptive statistics Result: The overall prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections of helminths among the asymptomatic primary school children at woldia town was 96(22.7%). The predominant intestinal parasites of helminthes was Ascaries lumbercoides 40 (9.5%) followed by Trichuris trichiura 18 (4.3%), Hymenolopis nana 13 (3.1%) and Hook worms 10 (2.4%). From the overall prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections of helminthes, 96(22.7%), the results obtained by direct wet mount method was 36(37.5%) while the Formol-ether concentration technique method revealed 60(62.5%). Moreover, the result also showed parasitic infections of helminthes were associated with associated predisposing factors. Concluding remarks and recommendations: In this study the overall prevalence of helminthic infections was relatively lower. However the control and intervention of intestinal helminthic infections requires a constant provision of periodic deworming treatment and regular health educations regarding personal hygiene and environmental sanitations.

DETEKSI KEBERADAAN TELUR Soil Transmitted Helminth (STH) PADA KUKU PETANI

Soil-Transmitted Helminth (STH) is an intestinal nematode that requires soil for the process of reproduction and maturation from non-infective to infective. The nematodes included in this species include Ascaris lumbricoides, Trichuris trichiura, and two species of hookworm, Necator americanus, and Ancylostoma duodenale. Personal hygiene can affect the incidence of helminth infections in humans. The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between personal hygiene and the presence of Soil-Transmitted Helminth (STH) eggs on farmers' nails. This research was conducted by analytical observation with a cross-sectional design in April-May 2021. The research method was filling out questionnaires and identifying eggs using the 10% KOH sedimentation method. Data were analyzed by univariate and Pearson Chi-Square tests. The results of this study showed that 4 fingernail samples (47.05%) were positive for Ascaris lumbricoides eggs and 2 fingernail samples (11.76%) were positive for Minute Intestinal Fluke, as many as 8 toenail samples (82.35%) were positive for Ascaris lumbricoides eggs. and 1 sample of toenails (5.88%) positive for Minute Intestinal Fluke eggs. There was no relationship between personal hygiene and the presence of STH eggs on farmers' nails (p = 0.05). STH eggs were found in the fingernails and toenails of farmers in Kaligondang District, Purbalingga Regency. Farmers need to improve personal hygiene to avoid helminth infections.

Prevalence and Intensity of Soil-Transmitted Helminths and Associated Factors among Adolescents and Adults in Bibugn Woreda, Northwest Ethiopia: A Community-Based Cross-Sectional Study.

Background Soil-transmitted helminths are a common public health problem in Ethiopia, affecting all age groups. However, epidemiological studies and interventions primarily target school-age children, despite the fact that 44.6 million adults live in endemic areas. Hence, data on the prevalence and intensity of soil-transmitted helminths infections and associated factors among adolescents and adults helps to expand interventions. Objective The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence and intensity of soil-transmitted helminths and associated factors among adolescents and adults in Bibugn Woreda, East Gojjam, Northwest Ethiopia. Methods A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Bibugn Woreda from February to September 2021. Using multistage proportionate sampling technique, 641 adolescents and adults were enrolled in this study. Data on sociodemographic characteristics and factors associated with helminthic infections was collected using structured questionnaire prepared in Amharic and administered through face-to-face interview. Parasite detection in stool samples was performed using modified formol-ether concentration and Kato-Katz techniques following standard protocols. Data was entered and analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences software version 25. Multivariable logistic regression was used to assess factors associated with soil-transmitted helminths infections. P value <0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Results The overall prevalence of soil-transmitted helminths infection was 20.9% (134/641). The most detected parasite was Ascaris lumbricoides (12.5%), followed by hookworm species (7.5%) and Trichuris trichiura (1.1%). Fecal egg counts revealed that 96.5% (112/116) of the infections were with light parasite intensity, while 3.5% (4/116) were with moderate parasite intensity. Family size >5 (AOR = 1.866; 95% CI: 1.221–2.853; P=0.004), absence of latrine (AOR = 3.675; 95% CI: 1.599–8.449; P=0.002), and no habit of hand washing before meal (AOR = 2.622; 95% CI: 1.073–6.405; P=0.034) were significantly associated with soil-transmitted helminths infections. Conclusion There was moderate prevalence of soil-transmitted helminths among adolescents and adults with predominance of A. lumbricoides. Family size greater than five, absence of latrine, and no hand washing habit before meal predisposed adolescents and adults for soil-transmitted helminths. The existing school-based interventions should expand to address adolescents and adults.

Evaluation of the Diagnostic Utility of Geohelminths from Environmental and Stool Samples in Nnewi Metropolis

Background: Geohelminths are groups of four intestinal soil transmitted parasites.They are of public health concern due to their serious morbidity they cause in children which are the major groups affected.&#x0D; Aim/Objective: The aim of this study is to evaluate the diagnostic performance of wet mount and concentration techniques of stool and soil samples for identification of geohelminths.&#x0D; Methodology: Eighty stool samples were collected from four primary schools, while forty soil samples were collected from the important sites (playground, and classroom areas) in each of the school accessed. The stool samples were examined with the wet preparation and formol-ether concentration technique, while the soil samples were examined with the formol-ether concentration technique. Ethical approval was sought from the Faculty of Health Sciences and Technology. Results: The results of geohelminths showed an overall prevalence of 6.25% (5/80) from the stool samples, and 27.5% (11/40) obtained from the soil. Recovery rates from the stool showed the presence of only two geohelminth;Hookworm (5%) and Strongyloides stercoralis (1.25%). Out of the four schools examined only three showed positive results with geohelminth infections, while the remaining school showed positive results with only Giardia.lamblia. The recovery rates from the soil also showed the same pattern of distribution as with the stool but with a higher prevalence of Hookworm (20.7%) and Strongyloides stercoralis (7.5%) with the toilet areas showing the highest prevalence (50%). The dominant specie of geohelminth observed in both stool and soil was Hookworm. The results also showed that both male (6%) and female (6.7%) are susceptible to the infection with no significant difference between their prevalances (p&gt;0.05).&#x0D; Conclusion: The prevalence of Hook worm was poorly reported by wet mount technique.The diagnostic performance of concentration methods for the diagnosis of Hook worms in the samples was notably high as compared to wet mount techniques.