Moderate Infection Intensities Research Articles

THYPLITIS HAEMORRHAGICA ET NECROTICAN IN THE INCIDENCE OF COCCIDIOSIS IN BROILER CHICKENS AGED 32 DAYS

Coccidiosis is a parasitic disease that often infects the digestive system of poultry and is caused by protozoan parasites from the genus Eimeria spp. Eimeria tenella is one of the most pathogenic protozoan species and has a predilection for the cecum and causes bloody diarrhea. The purpose of this paper is to determine the infectious agent that causes the death of 32 days old, female broiler chickens originating from one of the chicken farms in Petak Village, Gianyar District, Gianyar Regency. Clinical signs observed in chickens are weakness, pale wattles, dull looking feathers, clumps in the corners of the cage, and bloody diarrhea and dirty cloaca. Based on the results of the anatomical pathology examination, it showed that there was hemorrhage and thickening of the cecum wall (thyplitis haemorrhagica et necrotican). On histopathological examination, schizonts, hemorrhage, necrosis and inflammatory cell infiltration were found in the cecum and on parasitological examination, Eimeria sp oocysts were found. which has sporulated in chicken feces samples with moderate infection intensity. Conclusion: the case chicken was diagnosed as infected with coccidiosis by Eimeria tenella. Sanitation and improved cage management need to be carried out to prevent the occurrence of coccidiosis in chickens.

Efficacy of Single-Dose Praziquantel for the Treatment of Schistosoma mansoni Infections among School Children in Rwanda.

Preventive chemotherapy with single-dose praziquantel is the WHO-recommended intervention strategy to eliminate schistosomiasis as a public health problem in endemic countries. Surveillance of drugs used in mass drug administration (MDA) programs is recommended to evaluate its effectiveness in reducing transmissions. After a decade-long implementation of a school-based MDA program in Rwanda, we conducted efficacy surveillance of single-dose praziquantel MDA against S. mansoni infection. Two weeks before MDA, stool examinations were performed to screen MDA-eligible school children (n = 4998) for S. mansoni infection using the Kato-Katz technique, and 265 (6.5%) children tested positive for the infection. All children received praziquantel and albendazole as preventive chemotherapy through the MDA campaign. Infected children were enrolled and followed for efficacy monitoring, and stool examination was repeated after three weeks post-MDA (n = 188). Before treatment, 173 (92%) had a light infection, and 15 (8%) had a moderate infection intensity. The primary and secondary outcomes were parasitological cure and egg reduction rates at three weeks post-treatment. The overall cure and egg reduction rates for S. mansoni infection were 97.9% (95% CI = 94.6-99.4) and 97.02%, respectively. Among the 173 children with light infection intensity, 170 (98.3%, 95% CI = 95.0-99.6) were cured, and among the 15 children who had moderate infection intensity, 14 (93.3%) were cured. No significant association between cure rate and pre-treatment infection intensity was observed. We conclude that single-dose praziquantel is efficacious against light-to-moderate S. mansoni infection. Preventive chemotherapy with praziquantel effectively reduces schistosome reservoirs and transmission among school-age children.

Epidemiology of schistosomiasis in the town of Manjo, littoral - Region,Cameroon

BackgroundSchistosomiasis is endemic in Cameroon and continues to cause serious public health problems, especially among populations in rural areas. This study aimed at determining the prevalence and risk factors of urinary and intestinal schistosomiasis in Manjo. MethodA cross-sectional study was conducted in the city of Manjo in 2020. Stool and urine samples were collected from 400 participants. These stool and urine samples were examined by the Kato Katz, and centrifugation methods respectively. ResultsThe results obtained showed an overall prevalence of 6.25%, with 5% and 1.25% for S. mansoni and S. haematobium respectively. A significant difference (p < 0.05) was revealed among occupations, age groups, neighborhood, water usage, educational level, knowledge of the disease meanwhile no significant difference was observed between gender and occupation according to prevalence. The most infected ages were] 50-; + [and]20–35] with 13.36% and 11.86% respectively. S. haematobium revealed a low infection intensity while S. mansoni showed moderate infection intensity. The mean parasite load for S. haematobium was 6 ± 3.225 Eggs/10 ml in females and 7 ± 4.243 Eggs/10 ml for males; while the mean parasitic load in S. mansoni was 180 ± 142.441 Epg in females and 146.67 ± 82.286 Epg in males. ConclusionManjo can be classified as a low endemic area with a prevalence rate of 6.25% and species observed were S. haematobium and S. mansoni. Also, risk factors where observed including the use of water from the river for domestic purposes. Therefore, the intensification of health education campaigns among the population would delay the development of this disease in the locality.

Status of Intestinal Schistosomiasis in Buffaloes and Cattle in Rajshahi, Bangladesh

Schistosoma infection causes serious health impediment in livestock with poor productive and reproductive performances. This study was carried out to know the status of Schistosoma infection in buffaloes and cattle in Rajshahi, Bangladesh. The adult schistosomes were collected from mesenteries of buffaloes and cattle of Rajshahi. Out of 240 mesenteries (120 from each species) examined, 113 (47.08%) were found infected. The infection rate in buffaloes and cattle were 54.16% and 40%, respectively. Female buffalo and cattle (57.69% and 46%) were more prone to the infection than male (51.47% and 36.71%) although the differences were not statistically significant. Significant variations (p&lt;0.05) were observed in infection rate in different season. The highest infection rate was observed in rainy season (85% and 65%) followed by summer (52.5% and 40%) and winter (25% and 15%) in both the animals. Intensity of the infection greatly varied. Mostly, half of the infected animal (55% buffalo and 46% cattle) showed moderate infection intensity (51 to 100 parasites/animal). High degree of infection (&gt;100 parasites/animal) was found in 25% and 33% infected buffalo and cattle, respectively. Two species of intestinal schistosomes (S. indicum and S. spindale) were identified microscopically by observing egg of female parasites. S. indicum was present in all the infected mesenteries whereas only 29% buffaloes and 35% cattle samples contained S. spindale. The study determined the current scenario of intestinal schistosome infection in buffaloes and cattle of Rajshahi. The findings might be helpful to develop effective strategic plan to overcome the harmful effects of schistosomes in livestock of Bangladesh.&#x0D; Vol. 9, No. 2, August 2022: 201-211

Update on the Status of urogenital schistosomiasis in Some Communities of Ebonyi State, Nigeria

Background: Schistosomiasis is one of the most common parasitic infections in the world, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, ranking second only to malaria in terms of its socio-economic and public health importance in tropical and subtropical areas. There is an urgent need for updated information on the intensity of the disease at the community level to ensure effective disease monitoring. Materials and methods: The study was carried out in sixteen communities in the four local government areas of Ebonyi State. A total of 1,800 urine samples were collected from people of all ages randomly selected for this study. Urine samples were examined for Schistosoma haematobium egg using the standard parasitological method of diagnosis. Haematuria was evaluated using reagent test strips. Results: In this study, 342 (19.0%) persons were infected with S. haematobium. The infection was recorded in all the Communities in the study area, with Enyibichiri having the highest prevalence, n=39 (32.2%), followed by Umuoghara, n = 26 (25.5), while Oshugbu Community had the least prevalence, 5 (6.6%). More males, 225 (20.3%) than females, 117 (16.9%) were significantly infected. Infection prevalence was higher significantly (27.3%) among the age group 11-20 years. Those with light infection intensity 207 (60.5%) were excreting below 50 eggs/10ml urine, 110 (32.2%) had moderate infection intensity excreting between 50-100 eggs/10ml urine while 25 (7.3%) had heavy infection intensity excreting above 100egg/10ml urine. Peak intensity 14 (10.2%) was recorded among 11-20 egg groups. Prevalence of light and moderate intensities varied significantly (P&lt;0 .05) when compared with the prevalence of heavy infection in different age groups, which was not significantly different (P&gt; 0.05). The prevalence of haematuria was 188 (55.0%). The highest prevalence of haematuria (86; 62.3%) was recorded in the age group 11-20 years, while the least was recorded in age 31-40. Conclusion: Based on the findings of this study, the prevalence of urinary schistosomiasis infection in the Central Ebonyi State falls within the WHO classification of endemicity. Urgent need for decisive interventions through mass chemotherapy, focal application of molluscicides in the water bodies during the dry season and sanitation facilities are recommended. Health education is highly advocated

Assessing the impact of Ascariasis and Trichuriasis on weight gain using a porcine model.

BackgroundInfections with Ascaris lumbricoides and Trichuris trichiura remain significant contributors to the global burden of neglected tropical diseases. Infection may in particular affect child development as they are more likely to be infected with T. trichiura and/or A. lumbricoides and to carry higher worm burdens than adults. Whilst the impact of heavy infections are clear, the effects of moderate infection intensities on the growth and development of children remain elusive. Field studies are confounded by a lack of knowledge of infection history, nutritional status, presence of co-infections and levels of exposure to infective eggs. Therefore, animal models are required. Given the physiological similarities between humans and pigs but also between the helminths that infect them; A. suum and T. suis, growing pigs provide an excellent model to investigate the direct effects of Ascaris spp. and Trichuris spp. on weight gain.Methods and resultsWe employed a trickle infection protocol to mimic natural co-infection to assess the effect of infection intensity, determined by worm count (A. suum) or eggs per gram of faeces (A. suum and T. suis), on weight gain in a large pig population (n = 195) with variable genetic susceptibility. Pig body weights were assessed over 14 weeks. Using a post-hoc statistical approach, we found a negative association between weight gain and T. suis infection. For A. suum, this association was not significant after adjusting for other covariates in a multivariable analysis. Estimates from generalized linear mixed effects models indicated that a 1 kg increase in weight gain was associated with 4.4% (p = 0.00217) decrease in T. suis EPG and a 2.8% (p = 0.02297) or 2.2% (p = 0.0488) decrease in A. suum EPG or burden, respectively.ConclusionsOverall this study has demonstrated a negative association between STH and weight gain in growing pigs but also that T. suis infection may be more detrimental that A. suum on growth.

Paediatric assessment of immune responses in 3 to 5 years olds having intestinal nematode infection and vaccinated with valent10-PCV

Valent 10 - Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV10) introduction into routine immunization schedule has resulted in reduction of the incidence of Invasive Pneumococcal disease (IPD) in children in Kenya. This study assessed immunological effect of nematode infection in children aged 3 to 5 years vaccinated with PCV10. The study subjects were from Mukuru Kwa Njenga settlement in Nairobi County, Kenya. The children were medically examined for the presence of other infectious diseases by a qualified clinical officer. Questionnaires on the PCV10 vaccination history and deworming history of children were administered to the parents or guardians of children with the help of community health workers. The intensity of nematode infections was examined in the faecal samples using Kato-Katz technique and expressed as eggs per gram (EPG) of faeces. Serum samples were obtained from blood collected during sampling and used in Flow cytometry to determine levels of IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α and IFN-γ in cellular immune responses, whereas, ELISA was used to determine the levels of IgG and IgE antibodies in humoral responses. Results showed 73.4% of children completed the PCV10 vaccination dose schedule, 21.6% of children sampled had suffered invasive pneumococcal infections post PCV10 vaccination. Ascaris lumbricoides was the only species identified in 34.9% of children having light to moderate infection intensity with mean intensity of 17808EPG. Significant IL-6 levels expressed in children having nematode infection impacted increased secretion of IgG and IgE, thus, an indication that the humoral responses were significantly stimulated. Results indicate suppression of TNF-α expression in the category of children who had nematode infection and were also vaccinated with PCV10, however, a higher expression of IFN-γ in the same category implied a negative impact on PCV10 responses. The study also indicated that presence of nematodes and vaccination had a profound influence on the expression of IL-2, however, PCV10 vaccination and intestinal nematode infection did not significantly impact the expression of IL-4 and IL-10 cytokines. Immune responses due to infection with Ascaris lumbricoides stimulated multiple effector mechanisms influencing induction of cellular responses in PCV10 vaccination. Further investigation of other key cytokines as well as other parasites and pneumonia vaccines in other vulnerable individuals is therefore necessary in the management of concomitant infections in order to reduce the suppression of immune responses often resulting in difficulties in disease management.

Soil-transmitted helminth infections among pre-school aged children in Gamo Gofa zone, Southern Ethiopia: Prevalence, intensity and intervention status

Soil-transmitted helminths (STH), i.e., Ascaris lumbricoides, Trichuris trichiura and hookworms are among the most prevalent Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) in Ethiopia. Although pre-school aged children pay a high morbidity toll associated with STH infections, evidence on prevalence, intensity and intervention status is lacking in Ethiopia. This study, therefore, aimed to address these gaps to inform decision made on STH. We did a community-based cross-sectional study in five districts of Gamo Gofa zone, Southern Ethiopia; in January 2019. Data were collected using pre-tested questionnaire, and the Kato-Katz technique was used to diagnose parasites eggs in stool. Then, collected data were edited and entered into EpiData 4.4.2, and exported to SPSS software (IBM, version 25) for analysis. A total of 2462 PSAC participated in this study. Overall, the prevalence of STH was 23.5% (578/2462) (95% confidence interval (CI) = 21.8%-25.2%). As caris lumbricoides was the most prevalent (18.6%), followed by Trichuris trichiura (9.2%), and hookworms (3.1%). Of the total, 7.4% PSAC were infected with two STH species. Most of the positive cases with STH showed low infection intensities, while 15.1% ascariasis cases showed moderate infection intensities. The study found that 68.7% of PSAC were treated with albendazole. Also, household's level data showed that 39.4% used water from hand-dug well; 52.5% need to travel ≥30 minutes to collect water; 77.5% did not treat water, and 48.9% had no hand washing facility. In addition, almost 93% care givers achieved less than the mean knowledge and practice score (≤5) on STH prevention. This study showed that significant proportions of pre-school aged children are suffering from STH infections despite preventive chemotherapy exist at the study area. Also, gaps in the interventions against STH were highlighted. Thus, a call for action is demanding to eliminate STH among PSAC in Ethiopia by 2030.

Prevalence, Intensity, and Associated Factors of Schistosoma mansoni among School Children in Northwest Ethiopia.

Background Schistosomiasis is one of the Neglected Tropical Diseases in Ethiopia, and its burden may show variations from time to time across different regions. Thus, this study was aimed at determining the prevalence, intensity, and associated risk factors of Schistosoma mansoni (S. mansoni) among schoolchildren in Northwest Ethiopia. Methods A school-based cross-sectional study was conducted. A multistage sampling technique was used to select the study participants. Stool specimens were collected and examined using two-slide Kato-Katz method. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20 software. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to identify risk factors. p values less than 0.05 were taken as statistically significant. Result A total of 786 schoolchildren were participated in this study. The prevalence of S. mansoni was 33.5%. The mean egg count of the parasite among the infected study participants was 523.665 eggs per gram (epg) of stool. Thirty-seven, 42, and 21 percent of the study participant's infection were due to light, moderate, and heavy infection intensities, respectively. Age of 8-11 years old (AOR = 1,687, 95%CI = 1.163, 2.892), 5th-8th grade level (AOR = 2.280, 95%CI = 1.348, 3.856), residing in Chuahit District (AOR = 95.559, 95%CI = 12.945, 705.419), and using untreated water for domestic supply (AOR = 1.724, 95%CI = 1.457, 2.148) were found to be risk factors for S. mansoni infection. Conclusion High prevalence of S. mansoni and relatively higher proportion of moderate intensity of infection in this study imply that schistosomiasis is still one of the major public health problems in Northwest Ethiopia. It is also highlighted that study sites, provision of water supply, age, and grade level of the schoolchildren were identified as a risk factors for the disease.

Endemicity of Taenia solium cysticercosis in pigs from Mbeya Rural and Mbozi districts, Tanzania

BackgroundTaenia solium taeniasis/cysticercosis is a disease of substantial economic and public health importance particularly in low–income countries. The disease was reported to be endemic in Mbeya Rural and Mbozi districts, in the southern highlands of Tanzania, the major pig production area in the country. In 2008, using B158/B60 antigen detection enzyme–linked immunosorbent assay (Ag–ELISA), porcine cysticercosis prevalence of up to 32% was reported in the districts. A number of interventions have been implemented in selected villages including an integrated approach consisting of improving pig confinement and selective treatment of pigs with oxfendazole. Mass drug administration with praziquantel targeting schistosomiasis, with an expected effect on T. solium, was also provided to school–age children in the area. This study aimed at providing an update on prevalence and intensities of porcine cysticercosis; and assessing farmers’ knowledge, attitudes and practices which could be associated to disease transmission in the area. The study involved a questionnaire survey conducted using face–to–face household interviews with 890 consenting farmers; and carcass dissections performed on 282 pigs randomly selected from the surveyed households.ResultsTwenty–six pigs (9.2%) were infected with T. solium; of which two–thirds (65.4%) had light to moderate infection intensities (1–1000 cysticerci), and one–third (34.6%) had heavy intensities (> 1000 cysticerci). Questionnaire results showed that only 5.7% of the respondents perceived T. solium cysticercosis to be an important disease in pigs. About 18.5% of the respondents were aware of T. solium taeniasis, but 32% of them were unaware of how the infection is acquired. Half of the respondents had seen cysticerci in pork, of whom 61% were not aware that consumption of infected pork could cause taeniasis. Latrines were observed to often (90%) lack doors with 45% considered accessible to pigs.ConclusionsThis study provided an evidence that the disease was still endemic in the area. Poor knowledge of farmers, attitudes, and risky practices responsible for disease perpetuation were also revealed. A One Health approach targeting the whole area incorporating improvement of farmer knowledge regarding disease transmission needs to be trialed as a feasible approach to control.

Epidemiology of schistosomiasis in a low prevalence area of Alagoas between 2010 and 2016

Schistosomiasis mansoni is a parasitic disease very associated with social, economic, cultural and political factors, and the state of Alagoas is one of Brazil's most endemic states for parasitosis. Thus, this article aims to present the epidemiological profile of schistosomiasis in municipalities of the 7th health region of Alagoas for the period from 2010 to 2016. This is a descriptive and quantitative research that was performed from the data obtained by Information System of the Schistosomiasis Control Program (SISPCE) and System of Notification of Diseases of Information (SINAN) of the Unified Health System (SUS). All municipalities in the studied region have a positivity ranging between 0.25% and 13.03%, which characterizes them as low prevalence municipalities. As for the positivity, only one municipality presented in any period of the study a moderate infection intensity. All municipalities in the study area reported severe cases of the disease in SINAN during the study period. Two species of epidemiologically important snails were recorded in two cities of the health region under study, B. glabrata and B. straminea, and only the animals of the first species were found positive for Schistosoma mansoni infection. Thus, the data from the present study show that the 7th health region of Alagoas presents schistosomiasis as a relevant public health problem, which requires that measures to contain the disease to improve the quality of life of the population of this region.

Concurrent Schistosoma mansoni and Schistosoma haematobium infections in a peri-urban community along the Weija dam in Ghana: A wake up call for effective National Control Programme

Globally over 200 million people are infected with schistosomiasis, and approximately 80% are caused by just two of five species, Schistosoma haematobium and Schitosoma mansoni that are broadly distributed, and often overlap across sub-Saharan Africa. Like most neglected tropical diseases, mortality is low (an estimated 200,000 deaths annually) and morbidity is considerably high and probably underestimated. Surprisingly, little attention has been given to co-infection with these two species. We have studied co-infection with S. mansoni and S. haematobium in a peri-urban community in Ghana, one of the most highly endemic countries for schistosomiasis.We collected and examined snails of the two intermediate host species from the reservoir adjacent to the community. We also used microscopical examination of stool and urine samples to determine the level of concurrent S. mansoni and S. haematobium infections in school and administered questionnaires to assess water contact activities that predispose pupils to infectionsExamination of the snail hosts revealed that 0.7% (7/896) of Bulinus truncatus and 1.7% (14/780) of Biomphalaria pfeifferi snails were found to be hosting cercariae morphologically consistent with that of S. haematobium and S. mansoni respectively. The overall prevalence values for urogenital and intestinal schistosomiasis were 66.8% (135/202) and 90.1% (163/181) respectively. Only 50 of 181 schistosome-infected pupils had single-species infections and the remaining 131 pupils presented concurrent infections. Among the 131 infected with both species were 50 individuals having only S. mansoni eggs in stool and S. haematobium eggs in urine (conventional presentation). Eighty-one children (81) had eggs of both species in either urine and/or stool (ectopic presentation). From these 81, 63 had eggs of both species in urine, 6 had both species in stool, and 12 had eggs of both species present in both urine and stool. A comparatively large number of individuals from the concurrent infected group presented high and moderate infection intensities than the single infected groups. The overwhelmingly high prevalence of concurrent infections indicates further study of co-infection is needed, and points to a need call for a holistic disease control plan so Ghana can be part of nations to achieve the WHO roadmap target for schistosomiasis control by 2020.

Prevalence and Reinfection Rates of Schistosoma mansoni and Praziquantel Efficacy against the Parasite among Primary School Children in Sanja Town, Northwest Ethiopia.

Background Schistosomiasis is among the most widespread chronic infections in the world. The magnitude of the infection may show variations across different areas with respect to time. Praziquantel is a first line drug of choice for the treatment of schistosomiasis although its low cure rate has been reported in different parts of the world. Thus, an assessment of the magnitude of the diseases, the efficacy of currently available drugs, and reinfection rates is crucial. Objective Our principal objective is to determine the prevalence and reinfection rates of Schistosoma mansoni and to evaluate the efficacy of PZQ against Schistosoma mansoni. Method A school-based cross-sectional study was conducted on Sanja Elementary Schools, Sanja town, northwest Ethiopia. Stool specimens were examined using Kato-Katz method. Schoolchildren who tested positive for intestinal schistosomiasis and fulfilled the inclusion criteria took part in the efficacy and reinfection study. Positive participants were treated with 40 mg/kg of Praziquantel. Cure and egg reduction rates were evaluated three weeks after treatment. The intensity of infection was determined following the WHO's guideline. Moreover, the reinfection rate of those who were cured was evaluated after a six-month posttreatment period. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20. Results At baseline, 130 (35%) of the 372 schoolchildren were found infected with Schistosoma mansoni. Out of the 130 infected schoolchildren, 112 (86.2%) had moderate infection intensity. Among the S. mansoni positive schoolchildren, 80 were included as study participants for the evaluation of PZQ efficacy, based on the inclusion criteria established by WHO. The cure and egg reduction rates were found to be 90% (72/80) and 99.5%, respectively. Of the seventy-two schoolchildren considered for the determination of reinfection rate, after 6 months of posttreatment, 13.9% were found to be reinfected. Conclusion The schoolchildren in the three primary schools of Sanja are at moderate risk of the infection caused by S. mansoni. Although the therapeutic potency of PZQ at 40 mg/kg was efficient against S. mansoni, a high rate of reinfection was reported in the study site, suggesting the need for integrated schistosomiasis control measures.

Evaluation of diagnostic methods for the detection of intestinal schistosomiasis in endemic areas with low parasite loads: Saline gradient, Helmintex, Kato-Katz and rapid urine test.

BackgroundIn some tropical countries, such as Brazil, schistosomiasis control programs have led to a significant reduction in the prevalence and parasite burden of endemic populations. In this setting, the Kato-Katz technique, as the standard diagnostic method for the diagnosis of Schistosoma mansoni infections, which involves the analysis of two slides from one fecal sample, loses its sensitivity. As a result, a significant number of infected individuals are not detected. The objective of this study was to perform extensive parasitological testing of up to three fecal samples and include a rapid urine test (POC-CCA) in a moderate prevalence area in Northern Minas Gerais, Brazil, and evaluate the performance of each test separately and in combination.Methods and findingsA total of 254 individuals were examined with variants of the standard Kato-Katz technique (up to18 Kato-Katz slides prepared from three fecal samples), a modified Helmintex (30 g of feces), the saline gradient (500 mg of feces), and the POC-CCA methods. We established a reference standard taking into consideration all the positive results in any of the parasitological exams. Evaluation of the parasite burden by two Kato-Katz slides confirmed that most of the individuals harbored a light infection. When additional slides and different parasitological methods were included, the estimated prevalence rose 2.3 times, from 20.4% to 45.9%. The best sensitivity was obtained with the Helmintex method (84%). All parasitological methods readily detected a high or moderate intensity of infection; however, all lost their high sensitivity in the case of low or very low intensity infections. The overall sensitivity of POC-CCA (64.9%) was similar to the six Kato-Katz slides from three fecal samples. However, POC-CCA showed low concordance (κ = 0.34) when compared with the reference standard.ConclusionsThe recommended Kato-Katz method largely underestimated the prevalence of S. mansoni infection. Because the best performance was achieved with a modified Helmintex method, this technique might serve as a more precise reference standard. An extended number of Kato-Katz slides in combination with other parasitological methods or with POC-CCA was able to detect more than 80% of egg-positive individuals; however, the rapid urine test (POC-CCA) produced a considerable percentage of false positive results.

High burden of Schistosoma mansoni infection in school-aged children in Marolambo District, Madagascar

BackgroundA school-based survey was undertaken to assess prevalence and infection intensity of schistosomiasis in school-aged children in the Marolambo District of Madagascar.MethodsSchool-aged children from six purposively selected schools were tested for Schistosoma haematobium by urine filtration and Schistosoma mansoni using circulating cathodic antigen (CCA) and Kato-Katz stool analysis. The investigators did not address soil-transmitted helminths (STH) in this study.ResultsOf 399 school-aged children screened, 93.7% were infected with S. mansoni based on CCA analysis. Kato-Katz analysis of stool revealed S. mansoni infection in 73.6% (215/ 292). Heavy infections (> 400 eggs per gram) were common (32.1%; 69/ 215), with a mean of 482 eggs per gram of stool. Moderate infection intensities were detected in 31.2% (67/ 215) and light infection intensities in 36.7% (79/ 215) of infected participants. No infection with S. haematobium was detected by urine filtration.ConclusionsIntestinal schistosomiasis appears a considerable public health issue in this remote area of Madagascar where there is a pressing need for mass drug administration.

Parasites, stress and reindeer: infection with abomasal nematodes is not associated with elevated glucocorticoid levels in hair or faeces.

Stress hormones (glucocorticoids), incorporated into hair/fur and faeces, have been proposed as biomarkers of overall health in wildlife. Although such biomarkers may be helpful for wildlife conservation and management, their use has rarely been validated. There is a paucity of studies examining the variation of stress hormones in mammals and how they relate to other health measures, such as parasitism. Parasites are ubiquitous in wildlife and can influence the fitness of individual animals and populations. Through a longitudinal experiment using captive reindeer (Rangifer tarandus tarandus), we tested whether animals infected with Ostertagia gruehneri, a gastrointestinal nematode with negative impacts on fitness of the host, had higher stress levels compared with those that had been treated to remove infection. Faecal samples were collected weekly for 12 weeks (June-September) and hair was collected at the start and end of the study; glucocorticoids were quantified using enzyme immunoassays. Contrary to what was expected, infected reindeer had similar levels of cortisol in hair and slightly lower glucocorticoid metabolites in faeces compared with uninfected reindeer. Faecal corticosterone levels were higher than faecal cortisol levels, and only corticosterone increased significantly after a handling event. These results suggest that reindeer may use a tolerance strategy to cope with gastrointestinal nematodes and raise the question as to whether moderate infection intensities with nematodes are beneficial to the host. By removing nematodes we may have altered the gut microbiota, leading to the observed elevated faecal glucocorticoid metabolite levels in the treated reindeer. These findings demonstrate the importance of considering both cortisol and corticosterone in physiological studies, as there is mounting evidence that they may have different functionalities.

Parasitic burden in Red panda (Ailurus fulgens Cuvier, 1825) of Illam district Community forest, Nepal

Parasitic diseases pose significant conservation threat in conservation of Red panda. In order to assess the parasitic burden in Red panda of Illam district, Nepal, 14 faecal samples were aseptically collected from community forest of Illam using line transect method following the GPS location. The samples were examined using standard concentration techniques. All the collected samples were found to be positive for both protozoan and helminth parasites. The recorded protozoan parasites includes Eimeria sp., Entamoeba sp., and Balantidium sp. with 64.28%, 57.14% and 14.28% proportion respectively. Similarly the proportion of seven helmithes parasites revealed Oxyuris (100%), Baylisascaris (57.14%), Trichostrongylus (50%), Strongyloides (50%), Trichuris (42.8%), Crenosoma (42.85%) and Hookworm (35.7%). The most of the samples (78.52%) revealed either multiple parasitic infection or triple infection (21.42%) with low to moderate intensity of infection. In conclusion, The parasitic burden in Red Pandas of Illam, community forest is very high hence urgently needs to address this threat in Red panda conservation action plan.

Nutritional status of soil-transmitted helminthiasis-infected and uninfected children

Background Soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections remain a public health problem in developing countries. Their prevalence is particularly high in rural areas with people of low socioeconomic level. A single or mixed STH infection rarely causes death, but can affect nutritional status, growth, cognitive development and human health, especially in children.Objective To compare the nutritional status of STH-infected and uninfected children.Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted in June 2010 in children from 3 primary schools in the Simpang Empat and Kabanjahe Subdistricts, Karo District, North Sumatera Province. Fecal examinations were done by the Kato-Katz method to diagnose STH infections. Participants of this study consisted of 140 infected children and 141 uninfected children. Nutritional status classification was based on the 2000 Centers for Disease Control growth charts. All categorical data were analyzed by Chi-square test.Results Of 140 infected children, 8.6% were infected with Ascaris lumbricoides, 17.1% with Trichuris trichiura and 74.3% with mixed infections (Ascaris lumbricoides and Trichuris trichiura). We found significantly more STH infected children with mild to moderate malnutrition than the uninfected group. We also found significantly more mildly to moderately malnourished children with moderate infection intensity than mild infection intensity.Conclusion We find significantly more STH infected children with mild to moderate malnutrition than the uninfected group. We also find significantly more mildly to moderately malnourished children with moderate infection intensity than mild infection intensity. Higher severity of infection is associated with lower nutritional status.

Distribution of schistosomiasis and soil transmitted helminthiasis in Zimbabwe: towards a national plan of action for control and elimination.

BackgroundSchistosomiasis and STH are among the list of neglected tropical diseases considered for control by the WHO. Although both diseases are endemic in Zimbabwe, no nationwide control interventions have been implemented. For this reason in 2009 the Zimbabwe Ministry of Health and Child Care included the two diseases in the 2009–2013 National Health Strategy highlighting the importance of understanding the distribution and burden of the diseases as a prerequisite for elimination interventions. It is against this background that a national survey was conducted.MethodologyA countrywide cross-sectional survey was carried out in 280 primary schools in 68 districts between September 2010 and August 2011. Schistosoma haematobium was diagnosed using the urine filtration technique. Schistosoma mansoni and STH (hookworms, Trichuris trichiura, Ascaris lumbricoides) were diagnosed using both the Kato Katz and formol ether concentration techniques.Main findingsSchistosomiasis was more prevalent country-wide (22.7%) than STH (5.5%). The prevalence of S. haematobium was 18.0% while that of S. mansoni was 7.2%. Hookworms were the most common STH with a prevalence of 3.2% followed by A. lumbricoides and T. trichiura with prevalence of 2.5% and 0.1%, respectively. The prevalence of heavy infection intensity as defined by WHO for any schistosome species was 5.8% (range 0%–18.3% in districts). Only light to moderate infection intensities were observed for STH species. The distribution of schistosomiasis and STH varied significantly between provinces, districts and schools (p<0.001). Overall, the prevalence of co-infection with schistosomiasis and STH was 1.5%. The actual co-endemicity of schistosomiasis and STH was observed in 43 (63.2%) of the 68 districts screened.Conclusion and recommendationsThis study provided comprehensive baseline data on the distribution of schistosomiasis and STH that formed the basis for initiating a national control and elimination programme for these two neglected tropical diseases in Zimbabwe.

Prevalence of Intestinal Parasitic Infection in School Going Children in Amalapuram, Andhra Pradesh, India

Background: The public health impact of parasitic infection has been consistently underestimated in the past, but there is now a general consensus that diseases caused by intestinal parasites represent an important public health problem, especially children. Recent studies suggest that even moderate intensity of infection may have adverse effects on growth, iron deficiency anemia and cognitive function, practically for children of school age. Objective: Aim of the present study was to determine the intestinal parasitic infection in school going children. Materials and Methods: The stool samples were collected from different municipal school in and around Amalapuram according to the standard procedures between June 2006 to August 2006. All the stool samples were examined by the direct microscopic examination and by the formalin-ether concentration methods. Analysis of the data was carried out by using Epi info software. Results: A total 208 stool specimen were collected. The mean age group was 8.8 ± 2.11. 133 (63.9%) were infected with one or more intestinal parasites. 95 (71.4%) of the students were infected with single parasite, 38 (28.6%) with two or more parasites. The most common was Entamoeba histolytica (E.histolytica) with 41 (30.8%) single and 26 (19.54%) with multiple infections. The second most common was Giardia intestinalis (G.intestinalis) with 25 (18.8%) single and 25 (18.8%) with multiple infections. The third one was Entamoeba coli (E.coli) with 15 (11.3%) single and 17 (12.78%) with multiple infections. E.histolytica and G.intestinalis were the most commonly found parasite in multiple infections. 1.5% of Ascaris lumbricoides, 5.3% Hookworm, 0.8% Enterobius vermicularis and 0.8% of Trichuris trichuria were found in the stool sample. Conclusions: Intestinal parasitic infection is an important public health problem in Andhra Pradesh, India. Rural residence, mother education less than primary school and no hand wash with soap after toilets were the significant risk factors. Interventions including health education on personal hygiene, appropriate water management like boiling and use of latrines to the school children and to the parents.The public health impact of parasitic infection has been consistently underestimated in the past, but there is now a general consensus that diseases caused by intestinal parasites represent an important public health problem, especially children. Recent studies suggest that even moderate intensity of infection may have adverse effects on growth, iron deficiency anemia and cognitive function, practically for children of school age.