Prevalence Of Helminth Infections Research Articles

The first survey of endoparasite infection in the brown rat (Rattus norvegicus) from a synanthropic environment in Hungary

Urban rats are significant reservoirs of zoonotic endoparasites, posing serious health risks to humans. This study aimed to detect common endoparasites in wild brown rats (Rattus norvegicus) in Budapest, addressing the current lack of endoparasite surveys in Hungary. Carcasses of 131 rats collected following extermination were examined. Three zoonotic helminths were identified: Hymenolepis nana and Hymenolepis diminuta in the jejunum, and Calodium hepaticum in the liver. Additionally, non-zoonotic parasites were detected, including Eimeria spp., Entamoeba muris, Heterakis spumosa, Nippostrongylus brasiliensis, Eucoleus gastricus, Aonchotheca annulosa, Syphacia muris (intestine), and Trichosomoides crassicauda (urinary bladder). Helminth infection prevalence was 83.9 %, with no noticeable differences in prevalence or infection intensity between sexes. These findings highlight the potential public health risk posed by zoonotic parasites in urban rat populations, emphasising the importance of surveillance to mitigate possible human infection. The findings indicate that rats from Budapest harbour similar parasites to those in neighbouring regions. Further large-scale studies are recommended to better understand the parasitic landscape in Hungary's rat populations, leveraging data from rat control programs.

Socio-economic risk factors for intestinal helminthiases in selected endemic communities in Mindanao, the Philippines: a cross-sectional study

Abstract Background Parasitic neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) or ‘infectious diseases of poverty’ continue to affect the poorest communities in the world, including in the Philippines. Socio-economic conditions contribute to persisting endemicity of these infectious diseases. As such, examining these underlying factors may help identify gaps in implementation of control programs. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of schistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminthiasis (STH) and investigate the role of socio-economic and risk factors in the persistence of these diseases in endemic communities in the Philippines. Methods This cross-sectional study involving a total of 1,152 individuals from 386 randomly-selected households was conducted in eight municipalities in Mindanao, the Philippines. Participants were asked to submit fecal samples which were processed using the Kato-Katz technique to check for intestinal helminthiases. Moreover, each household head participated in a questionnaire survey investigating household conditions and knowledge, attitude, and practices related to intestinal helminthiases. Associations between questionnaire responses and intestinal helminth infection were assessed. Results Results demonstrated an overall schistosomiasis prevalence of 5.7% and soil-transmitted helminthiasis prevalence of 18.8% in the study population. Further, the household questionnaire revealed high awareness of intestinal helminthiases, but lower understanding of routes of transmission. Potentially risky behaviors such as walking outside barefoot and bathing in rivers were common. There was a strong association between municipality and prevalence of helminth infection. Educational attainment and higher “practice” scores (relating to practices which are effective in controlling intestinal helminths) were inversely associated with soil-transmitted helminth infection. Conclusion Results of the study showed remaining high endemicity of intestinal helminthiases in the area despite ongoing control programs. Poor socio-economic conditions and low awareness about how intestinal helminthiases are transmitted may be among the factors hindering success of intestinal helminth control programs in the provinces of Agusan del Sur and Surigao del Norte. Addressing these sustainability gaps could contribute to the success of alleviating the burden of intestinal helminthiases in endemic areas.

The Prevalence of Infection with Gastrointestinal Helminths in Free-Range Poultry of Zabol, Iran.

As an ecological and ethical method employed for poultry farming, free-range chicken keeping is growing and is important in fostering rural farmers' livelihoods and community prosperity. This study aimed to determine the nature and prevalence of helminth infections in native poultry in Zabol, Iran. Between 2022 and 2023, 160 chickens were acquired and slaughtered ethically, and then their gastrointestinal tracts were taken and formalin preserved in Zabol, Iran. The parasites were isolated from gastrointestinal mucus in the laboratory and characterized using a microscope and specific methods such as Acetocarmine staining. Among 160 dissected birds, 92 (57.5%) were presented with gastrointestinal parasites, with 64 (40%) containing cestodes, 16 (10%) containing nematodes, and 12 (7.5%) infected by both. Observations were made of seven different species. Ascaridia galli (A. galli) (10%), Subulura brumpti (7.5%), and Heterakis gallinarum (3.12%) represent the three main nematode species. While Raillietina tetragona (R. tetragona) (33.12%) was the most prevalent cestode, R. echinobothrida (6.25%), R. magninumida (5%), and Cotugnia digonopora (3.12%) were less common. The study revealed that free-range chickens in the arid Zabol region had a high prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites. There is a strong correlation between chicken foraging behavior and exposure to contaminated soil, with certain nematodes and cestodes constituting the most prevalent, negatively affecting bird growth, productivity, and health. Therefore, improving poultry welfare by applying parasite control measures and implementing appropriate management strategies is essential.

Prevalence of Helminth Infections in Patients with Celiac Disease

Introduction: The aim of this study was to investigate the association between helminth infections and celiac disease (CeD), examining various demographic and clinical factors in CeD cases compared to controls. Methods: We conducted a retrospective case-control study utilizing Leumit Health Care Services’ electronic health records. The study encompassed individuals with CeD and a matched control group. We analyzed demographic and clinical characteristics, examining their association with helminth infections. Results: We observed CeD cases and controls had similar mean ages (17.8 years vs. 18.0 years, p = 0.565) and gender distributions (64.0% females in both groups, p = 0.999). There were no significant differences in socioeconomic status and ethnic distribution between the two groups. Most of the helminthiases in the CeD group were due to intestinal helminthiases, and most of the intestinal helminthiases were nematode (roundworm) infections. Enterobiasis (the pinworm Enterobius vermicularis) is involved in most cases (odds ratio 1.32, 95% confidence interval 1.20–1.45, p < 0.001). While the prevalence of ascariasis and anisakiasis was also higher in the CeD group, these differences were not statistically significant (p = 0.115 and p = 0.174, respectively). No significant differences were found in the prevalence of other specific helminth infections, such as echinococcosis, cestode infections, and strongyloidiasis. Conclusions: This study reveals an unexpected association between CeD and helminth infections, challenging prevailing hypotheses, particularly within the context of the hygiene hypothesis. These findings warrant further investigation to elucidate the mechanisms underlying this intriguing relationship.

Integrated Eco-Health approach significantly reduces helminth infections in endemic Khong islands with emphasis on Schistosoma mekongi

BackgroundHelminth infections, including Opisthorchis viverrini, hookworm, and Trichuris trichiura, are prevalent in Khong district, Champasack province, southern Lao People’s Democratic Republic (PDR). Schistosomiasis caused by Schistosoma mekongi is of public health concern on the islands of the Khong district. This study aimed to assess the impact of an Eco-Health/One-Health approach in combination with mass drug administration (MDA) to reduce these helminth infections.MethodsWe conducted a community intervention using a stepped-wedge trial approach on two endemic islands (Donsom and Donkhone) of the Khong district, Champasack province, Lao PDR, between April 2012 and March 2013. In each study village, 30–40 households were randomly selected. All members of selected households, who were at home during the study period were invited to participate in the study. A baseline study was conducted to assess helminth infections, knowledge attitudes and practices toward Schistosoma mekongi infection, behavior of open defecation and availability of latrine at home. After the baseline (T0), the Eco-Health/One-Health approach was implemented on Donsom (intervention) and Donkhone island (control). An assessment was conducted in 2014 (T1), one year after the completion of intervention implementation, to assess the short-term impact of the Eco-Health/One-Health approach on helminth infections and compare intervention and control islands. Later in 2015, the Eco-Health/One-Health approach was implemented on control island (Donkhone). After the implementation of intervention, the parasitological assessments were conducted annually in humans in 2015 (T2), in 2016 (T3) and in 2017 (T4), and in dogs in 2017 (T4) to evaluate the long-term impact of the intervention on helminth infections. Frequency was used to describe the prevalence of helminth infections. Logistic regression was applied to associate the KAP (knowledge, attitudes, and practices and open defecation behavior) and the reduction of helminth infections between intervention and control islands. The reduction in prevalence pre- and post-intervention was associated using a McNemar test. A two-independent sample t-test was applied to compare the mean eggs per gram (EPG) of helminth infections between control and intervention islands. A paired t-test test was used to compare the mean EPG of stool samples before (baseline) and after (follow-up) interventions for the two islands separately. A P-value lower than 0.05 was considered statistically significant.ResultsEco-Health/One-Health approach appears to be associated with reduction in prevalence of S. mekongi by 9.0% [odds ratio (OR) = 0.49, P = 0.003] compared to the use of mass drug administration alone (control island). Additionally, this intervention package significantly reduced O. viverrini infection by 20.3% (OR = 1.92, P < 0.001) and hookworm by 17.9% (OR = 0.71, P = 0.045), respectively. Annual parasitological assessments between 2012 and 2017 showed that the Eco-Health/One-Health approach, coupled with MDA, steadily reduced the prevalence of S. mekongi on the intervention island from 29.1% to 1.8% and on the control island from 28.4% to 3.1%, respectively.ConclusionsThe study findings suggest that the Eco-Health/One-Health approach appears to be associated with a significant reduction in prevalence of S. mekongi and helminth co-infections, particularly hookworm and T. trichiura. Therefore, implementing the Eco-Health/One-Health approach in schistosomiasis-endemic areas could accelerate the achievement of national goals for transmission interruption by 2025 and elimination by 2030.

Prevalence of Intestinal Helminthes among School-Aged Children in Ife Central Local Government, Nigeria: Implications for Targeted Interventions

Background: Soil-transmitted helminths (STHs) are a major health concern for children in developing countries. This study assesses the prevalence and intensity of STHs among pupils in private nursery and primary schools in Ile-Ife, Nigeria. Methods: The study was conducted in Ife Central LGA, Osun State, Nigeria, involving preschool and school-aged children from two private schools. A total of 55 samples, from 22 male and 33 female pupils, were analyzed for intestinal parasite ova to determine the prevalence of helminth infections among the children. Ethical approval was obtained from the Institute of Public Health, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife. Consent was secured from parents or guardians. Samples were processed using the modified Kato-Katz technique and examined microscopically for soil-transmitted helminth (STH) eggs. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests, with significance set at p &lt; 0.05. Results: Among the 55 fecal samples collected, the overall prevalence of soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections was 78.2%. Ascaris lumbricoides were the most prevalent helminth (76.4%), followed by Trichuris trichiuria (14.5%) and hookworms (5.5%). Females had a higher infection rate (81.8%) than males (68.2%). The prevalence of STH infections was highest among pupils aged ≥10 years (81.8%) and lowest among those aged 2-3 years (66.7%). Conclusion: This study highlights a significant burden of STH infections, particularly A. lumbricoides, among schoolchildren in Ile-Ife, Nigeria. The high prevalence necessitates targeted deworming and improved sanitation interventions to reduce the burden of these infections among children in this region.

Contribution of wastewater irrigated vegetables to the prevalence of soil-transmitted helminth infection among female farmers in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

BackgroundUntreated or inadequately treated wastewater carrying human feces can host helminth eggs and larvae, contaminating the soil and plants that are irrigated with it. In Addis Ababa, farmers use untreated wastewater to grow vegetables; however, there are little data currently available published on vegetables' contribution to the prevalence of helminth among female farmers along the Akaki River, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted in Addis Ababa City in February 2022. A stratified random sampling method was used to sample farming households. The sample size for each district was determined by a proportional allocation to the total number of households in the area. Two hundred and fifty-two composite vegetable samples and 101 farmers’ stool samples were collected and analyzed for helminth prevalence. Data on socio-demographics were collected by trained data collators using a structured questionnaire. Kato-Katz concentration was used to detect STH from a stool sample. Stata version 14.0 was used to process the data. Poisson regression was used to identify the association between STH prevalence in the vegetable and the farm's stool.ResultsHelminths were found in 67.5% of vegetables sampled and 20.8% of female farmers' stools. Ascaris lumbricoides eggs (vegetable 48.4% and stool 9.9%) were identified in all analyzed samples. Hookworm eggs (vegetable 13.1% and stool 8.9%) and Trichuris trichiura eggs (vegetable 5.9% and stool 2%) were also isolated. The total number of helminth eggs present in wastewater-irrigated vegetables and female farmers’ stool had a positive association (p < 0.05) with a regression coefficient of 1.92 (95% CI = 1.56–2.28).ConclusionsThe study found a significant prevalence of helminth infections, particularly Ascaris lumbricoides, in stool and vegetable samples irrigated with wastewater. A clear association was found between vegetable production and a higher prevalence of helminth infections among female farmers. Therefore, it is important to ensure that farmers are educated in the importance of food washing and sanitation/hygiene practices when using wastewater irrigation for vegetable crops.Graphical

Nematodes in Trichomycterus nigromaculatus (Pisces: Trichomycteridae) from the Río Gaira, Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, Colombia

Objective. To determine the prevalence of helminth infection in Trichomycterus nigromaculatus captured in environments defined from the physicochemistry of the Gaira River, in Minca, Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, Colombia. Material and Methods. We collected 476 specimens of T. nigromaculatus covering both climatic periods of the area, which were dissected to analyze the visceral cavity. Isolated parasites were fixed in 10% formalin for subsequent clarification. The specimens were identified by observation of adult stages under a stereoscopic microscope after clarification. Results. Specimens were found exclusively from the genus Spirocamallanus (Nematoda), the species Spirocamallanus sp. parasitic prevalence ranged from 0% in August to 28.57% in April with an abundance of 1.09 worms/host. Environmental parameters such as dissolved oxygen (Mean:5.65 mg. L-1, Max:7.5 mg. L-1, Min:4.41 mg. L-1); pH (Mean:7.2, Max: 9.3, Min: 5.7) and conductivity (Mean:72.82 µs.cm-1, Max: 123.7 µs.cm-1, Min: 40 µs.cm-1) presented statistically significant differences, the environment is eutrophicated. Conclusions. Spirocamallanus sp. were described in the areas of presence of the parasitic association in T. nigromaculatus, which constitutes a new record for the Colombian Caribbean and an extension of the geographic distribution and host range of the nematode.

Prevalence of human intestinal helminths in Nnewi South Local Government Area, Anambra State, Nigeria

study on human intestinal helminths was conducted across eight primary schools in Nnewi South LGA, Anambra State. Stool samples were collected from 495 randomly selected pupils and examined using the direct smear technique to determine the prevalence of helminthic infections with predictor variables being regressed against outcome variables. A structured questionnaire was used to obtain biodata from the pupils to assess the association of intestinal helminths with socio-economic variables. The overall percentage of intestinal helminth-infected pupils had no statistical significance (p=0.1294). The probability of the outcome variable occurring rose by approximately 1.18 and 1.15 times for every unit higher in the predictor variable, as indicated by the positive coefficients for S1 and S4 schools (0.164821 and 0.136310). Only Trichuris infection exhibited a negative coefficient (-2.535188) among single infections and was significantly associated (p=0.0249). Ascaris + hookworm and Ascaris + Trichuris infections among the multiple infections revealed negative and positive coefficients (- 9.730077 and 1731.696, respectively), and they were strongly related (p=0.0001 and 0.0000). The number of infected students in (14-18) age range had a positive coefficient (0.020680) and was significantly (p=0.0441) associated with odds ratios of about 1.02, meaning that the odds of the dependent variables increase by about 1.02 times for every unit increase in the independent variable. The proportion of males with the infection displayed positive coefficients (0.980800) and was significantly (p=0.0052) associated with odds ratios of about 2.67, indicating that the likelihood of outcome variables occurring increases by approximately 2.67 times for every unit rise in the predictor variable. Conclusively, the findings observed could be attributed to the poor socio-economic status and poor personal hygiene arising from the lack of basic amenities such as pipe-borne water and other sanitary facilities in the study location. Adequate health education on sanitation, provision of portable drinking water, toilet facilities and mass deworming programmes are highly recommended in the area.

Association between helminth infection and allergic disorders among children in Batu, Ethiopia.

Helminths are potent immunomodulators and in their chronic infection state they may protect against allergy-related disease and atopy. However, they are also known for inducing allergic conditions. This study aimed to assess the association between helminths, atopy and allergic conditions. A total of 461 school children participated in this cross-sectional study. Data on allergic symptoms and a range of confounding variables was gathered from parents via an interviewer-led questionnaire. Skin sensitization to house dust mite and cockroaches was analyzed, and a stool sample was collected for helminth analysis. Serum total Immunoglobulin E using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and eosinophil count were also measured. Overall sensitivity to both allergens was 2.4%. Self-reported allergic outcomes in the last 12 months for the 461 participants had been : wheezing 3.7%, asthma 2.2%, eczema 13.2% and hay fever 6.9%. Overall, the prevalence of helminth infection was 11.9% (53/444). A borderline significant association was found between atopy and any allergy symptoms (odds ratio [OR]: 3.32, 95% confidence interval [95% CI: 0.99, 11.1], p = .052). There was no significant association between helminths and atopy (OR: 0.64 [95% CI: 0.29, 1.41], p = .268) and also between helminths and allergic symptoms (OR: 0.64 [95% CI: 0.29, 1.41], p = .268). Bivariate analysis showed keeping an animal in the house increases the risk of atopy while maternal and paternal history of allergy increases the risk of developing allergic symptoms in the children. This study found a non-significant inverse association between helminths infection and atopy and allergic disorders, likely due to reduced statistical power, resulting in a lower prevalence of atopy and allergic conditions. A high powered longtitudinal study is necessary to explore the casuality and potential therapeutic benefits of helminths for allergic disorders.

Prevalence of Helminths Infection in Wild Rodents of Northwestern Iran.

Rodents act as reservoirs, intermediate hosts, or definitive hosts for various zoonotic helminths. Parasitic diseases are among the critical factors affecting the survival and composition of wild rodent populations. Wild rodents share their habitat with domestic free-grazing animals, mainly sheep, stray dogs, and cats, which allows the transmission of helminth infections, such as Toxocara and Trichinella, to these animals. This study investigated the helminth parasite fauna of wild rodents in East Azerbaijan province, north-western Iran, and discussed the possibility of parasite transmission among wild rodents. A total of 204 rodents of 17 different species (spp.) were collected in north-western Iran. Information about the genus, developmental stage, and rodent spp. was recorded for each animal. The gastrointestinal tract, liver, and diaphragm were examined for the presence of helminths. The recovered specimens were identified based on references. The prevalence rate of helminth infection among the captured rodents was 67.16%. Meriones persicus (M. persicus) showed the highest infection and diversity rates. This spp. harbored the zoonotic helminth Capillaria hepatica and some spp. belonging to the genera Toxocara, Syphacia, and Hymenolepis. M. persicus specimens from mountainous areas showed the highest infection rate. This study aimed at evaluating the potential role of wild rodent spp. as reservoirs of helminth infection in East Azerbaijan province, Iran. M. persicus was the most common spp. in our study and represented a higher proportion of the infected rodents in terms of helminth diversity and frequency. Harboring zoonotic helminths, M. persicus represents a health risk. Further studies are recommended to evaluate the prevalence of these parasites in the human community and inform people concerned about the risk of disease transmission to humans through rodents.

A 14-year review (2007-2020) of helminthiasis epidemiology in a hospital in Southern Madrid, Spain.

Vast majority of helminth diseases remain neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), causing significant morbidity. The widespread and periodic distribution of antiparasitic drugs, remains the cornerstone for controlling these diseases. In Spain, most helminthiasis cases are imported, and suspicion and diagnosis have become increasingly important. Our primary objective is to present the epidemiological landscape of helminthiasis diagnoses within our facility, while also detailing the demographic characteristics of the affected population. A retrospective study was conducted at the Hospital Universitario Severo Ochoa (HUSO) from January 1, 2007, to December 31, 2020, encompassing all diagnosed cases of helminthiasis during this period. Comprehensive epidemiological, clinical, and microbiological data were gathered for all diagnosed patients. The study population comprised patients receiving treatment at the HUSO, as well as those receiving treatment at the Leganés and Fuenlabrada Primary Care Units. Subsequently, descriptive and comparative statistics were performed, comparing Spanish and foreign patients. During this period, a total of 952 patients were diagnosed with some form of helminthiasis. Among them, 495 were Spanish, and 457 were foreign. The total number of helminths identified, including patients with multiple infections, was 1,010. Significant differences were observed between Africans and Americans in terms of age distribution, with a higher prevalence among Africans in the 0-15 age range and among Americans in the 31-60 age range. Variations were noted in the distribution of helminths, with S. stercoralis significantly affecting Americans. For Spanish patients, the presence of Trichuris trichiura and S. stercoralis was significantly associated with eosinophilia, whereas among foreign patients, it was associated with Trichuris trichiura, Ascaris lumbricoides among others. Regarding symptoms, skin manifestations were more frequent among Spanish, while digestive were more common among foreigners. This study offers crucial epidemiological insights into helminth infections observed over time in a Madrid hospital. Although the prevalence of helminth infections has been decreasing, there is still a need for screening and diagnosing foreign patients.

Behavioural effect of soil transmitted helminths control programme among school going children in Meru County, Kenya

Background: Intestinal parasitic infections are major public health problems mostly among children contributed in part by adults in developing countries. Despite the effort of World Health Organization (WHO) to eradicate intestinal parasitic infections, the infection continues to be the most common of tropical diseases in developing countries. Methods: This study adopted a mixed methods design, specifically the convergent parallel mixed methods research design. Data was collected using questionnaires, key informants guide, observation and stool examination for intestinal parasitic infections which were administered to both the experimental groups and the control groups. Data analysis was carried out with the aid of statistical package of the social sciences (SPSS) version 26.0, using descriptive statistics to describe the characteristics of the studied population. Qualitative data was analyzed by thematic content analysis. Results: Washing hands after visiting the toilet (p&lt;0.05), washing hands before eating (p&lt;0.05) and washing hands after playing (p&lt;0.05) were significantly associated with intestinal parasitic infections in both intervention and control groups. Further, at post intervention, in the intervention group, the overall prevalence of protozoan infections reduced from 28.0% to 14.7% before and after intervention respectively as well the overall prevalence of helminthic infections reduced from 40.3% to 13.7% before and after intervention respectively. Conclusions: Public health interventions influenced the reduction of the prevalence of intestinal parasites. The county government should play a role in interventions to improve sanitation and hygiene in communities. Public health offices should enforce skills training and enhancement at the household level, and multiple targeted interventions focused on intestinal parasite infections should be implemented.

Intestinal helminth co-infection and associated factors among pulmonary tuberculosis patients in Africa and Asia: a systematic review and meta-analysis

IntroductionTuberculosis (TB) and intestinal helminths have huge public health importance, and they are geographically overlapped. Data about the burden of intestinal helminth and TB co-infection in these areas are fragmented. In this systematic review and meta-analysis we compile the current literatures and generate pooled prevalence. We also identity factors associated with intestinal helminth co-infection among TB patients.MethodsOriginal articles published in English language up to March 23, 2022 were systematically searched from electronic database (PubMed/Medline, Scopus, Science Direct, Google Scholars and HINARI). The search was done using medical subject heading terms and keywords. Identified articles were exported into the EndNote library. The identified articles were screened using PRISMA flow diagram. Then the methodological quality of included articles was evaluated and rated using the modified version of Newcastle–Ottawa Scale. Data were extracted using Microsoft Excel. Sensitivity analysis and Egger regression test were used for the assessment of heterogeneity and publication bias. Finally the results are presented with a meta-analysis of pooled estimates, forest plots, and tables. The quantitative data were analyzed using Stata version 14.ResultsFrom a total of 5457 searched articles, 22 eligible articles were included in the review. The pooled prevalence of helminth co-infection among TB cases was 29.69% (95%CI: 21.10, 38.29). TB patients were found to more frequently harbor one or more intestinal helminths than TB negative individuals (OR = 1.72 (95%CI: 1.20, 2.48)). Among the reported helminths, Schistosoma mansoni and Strongyloides stercoralis had the highest pooled prevalence among TB cases. However, unlike other individual helminths, only Strongyloides stercoralis (OR = 2.67 (95% CI, 1.20–6.76)) had significant association with TB cases compared to TB negatives. BMI was significantly associated with intestinal helminth co-infection among TB patients (OR = 2.75 (95%CI: 1.19, 6.38)).ConclusionsPatients with TB have been shown to harbor co-infection with one or more intestinal helminths with considerable proportions when compared with TB-negative individuals. The higher prevalence of helminth infection in TB cases might indicate that co-infection promotes active TB disease. Thus, routine intestinal helminth screening and assessment of their nutritional status is suggested for TB patients.

Nutritional status and prevalence of helminthic infection among primary school children in Bangladesh: A cross-sectional study.

Malnutrition and infectious diseases, such as helminthic infections, are widespread among primary school children, especially in low- and middle-income countries. However, there are limited studies on school health in Bangladesh, particularly in rural settings. This study aimed to explore the nutritional status and prevalence of helminthic infections in relation to associated health behavior, awareness, and knowledge regarding malnutrition and helminthic infections which were evaluated by school nurses among primary school children in Bangladesh. This was a descriptive, cross-sectional survey study with a total duration of 1 month, from September to October, 2021. This study formed part of a school nurse project as a cluster non-randomized clinical trial in Bangladesh. Selected variables from that clinical trial were analyzed and reported in the results section. The study participants were primary school children from four schools in rural Bangladesh. In total, 604 children participated in the baseline survey and health checkups. Among them, 163 (27.0%) children were classified as malnourished according to the World Health Organization growth reference standard 2007. The prevalence of helminthic infections was 53 (8.8%). Approximately >50% of the children responded that they never/rarely practiced hygiene-related behaviors and had no awareness and knowledge regarding malnutrition and helminthic infections. However, differences between the variables were not statistically significant. Children's nutritional status and prevalence of helminthic infections with related deprived health behaviors, and minimal awareness and knowledge, reinforce the importance of implementing educational interventions in the future.

A Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Intestinal Parasitic Infections in School Children from South India

Background and Aim: According to the World Health Organization, close to 21% of India’s population may be affected by intestinal parasites, accounting for 39 million disability-adjusted life years, which may likely be due to substandard sanitation practices and insufficient personal hygiene standards. This research was conducted with the aim of determining the prevalence of helminthic infections among school-aged children in the South Canara district of India. Materials and Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study involving school children from nursery to the 8th Grade in the South Canara district of Karnataka, India. The presence of various intestinal parasites in different age groups was determined by performing routine stool microscopy. Modified acid-fast staining was performed for stool samples collected from children &lt;5 years of age for the detection of intestinal coccidian parasites. Statistical analysis was carried out to analyze age-related trends in relation to the prevalence of commonly detected intestinal parasites. Results: Intestinal parasites were identified in 10 of the 253 students (3.9%), with the highest incidence observed in the age group of 7–10 years (1.9%). The most prevalent parasite identified was the cysts of Giardia lamblia, with a prevalence of 7.54%, followed by Ascaris lumbricoides and hookworm, each having a prevalence of 5.66%. Of the 253 students, 92.2% practiced handwashing with soap after defecation, while 7.8% did not use soap. The handwashing practices did not significantly vary across different age groups. Clinically, pallor was observed in 64.2% of the individuals. Conclusion: Giardiasis was the most common parasitic infection, followed by soil-transmitted helminths such as Ascariasis and hookworm. The level of hygiene practices among children exceeded the prevailing national and state standards.

Prevalence and pattern of soil transmitted intestinal helminth infections amongst HIV infected children in a tertiary hospital south eastern, Nigeria

Objective: Soil-transmitted helminth infections (STHI) coexist with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, and they are widespread in environments where poverty is endemic. Helminths upregulate immunological stimulation while HIV’s effect is down-regulatory, depicted by the increased incidence of hypersensitivity drug reactions in advanced HIV/AIDS. Hypobiosis (a state of dormancy in the host with the capability of reactivation and establishing intestinal infection over long periods) among helminths is accentuated in the presence of a low CD4 count. This makes HIV-positive patients often have a higher load of helminths. The study sought to determine the pattern, prevalence, and specie specific prevalence of intestinal helminthiasis in children living with HIV and HIV seronegative controls. Material and Methods: This was a comparative cross-sectional study, conducted amongst 256 sero-positive children, and 268 matched controls recruited into the study between October and December 2022. Subjects were excluded if they had been given any antihelminth in the six weeks preceding enrollment. Data were collected using a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire. Fresh stool samples were analyzed using the Kato-Katz method. Results: The prevalence of intestinal helminthiasis in children living with HIV was 47.7% and 36.6% amongst the sero-negative control population (p = 0.7589). Among the subjects and controls, the highest prevalence was seen in the 5-9 year age group, while those over 15 years had the lowest prevalence. These differences in the prevalence of helminths infection amongst the various age groups were significant in the subjects only and not in the controls. Of all the STHI, Hookworm infection constituted the majority 52.5%. Multiple STHI were seen in 20.7% of subjects living with HIV, while 9.3% were seen in the control. The difference is statistically significant (p = .00003). Conclusion: Soil-transmitted helminthic infection is more prevalent in children living with HIV than in apparently healthy children. Regular deworming should be considered in the care of children living with HIV.

The helminth infection rate of livestocks in Thua Thien Hue province and the effectiveness of autoclave in decontaminating parasitic infection agents

Livestock and pets are important to human life but have many potential health hazards such as parasitic zoonoses. Objectives: To investigate the prevalence of helminth infection in some kind of livestocks and pets in Thua Thien Hue province and evaluate the value of autoclaving to decontamination to avoid the helminthic infections. Materials and methods: cross-sectional and experimental descriptive study using Formalin - Ether technique to investigate the prevalence of helminth eggs of dog, and cattle feces collected in Thua Thien Hue province. Comparing the shape of helminth eggs in 10% formalin and the other preserved in 10% formalin, then autoclaved, to evaluate the effectiveness of autoclave decontamination in both preventing helminth infection and identifying helminths. Results: The overall prevalence of helminth infections in some domestic animals (cattle, dogs and pig) in Thua Thien Hue province was 42%. Parasitic helminth egg specimens can be stored for a long time by autoclaving to avoid infection. Conclusions: The rate of helminth infections in some domestic animals in Thua Thien Hue province is still relatively high. The method of autoclaving and decontamination has the potential to prevent helminth infection in the laboratory and safty for storage slide. Key words: helminths, livestock, decontamination.

Dairy goats helminthosis and its potential predictors in Greece: Findings from an extensive countrywide study

The objectives of the present study were: (a) to describe the prevalence of helminth infections from pooled faecal samples from goat herds across Greece, (b) to evaluate herd-related factors potentially associated with the presence of these infections in the herds and (c) to compare the findings to those of a previous relevant study performed in sheep flocks. A cross-sectional study was carried out in 119 goat herds around Greece. Helminths were recovered from samples from 93.3% of herds: Dicrocoelium dendriticum (from 15.1% of herds), Paramphistomum cervi (from 0.8% of herds), Moniezia spp. (from 25.2% of herds), Trichostrongylidae (from 89.1% of herds), Nematodirus spp. (from 16.8% of herds), Strongyloides papillosus (from 5.0% of herds), Trichuris spp. (from 18.5% of herds) and lungworms (from 23.5% of herds). Mean epg counts in all herds in the study were 219 epg. In multivariable analyses, for ‘high (> 300) epg counts in faecal samples’ the age of kid removal from their dams (p = 0.045) was found to be a significant factor, for ‘high proportion (> 64%) of Teladorsagia spp. in faecal samples’ the month of the start of the kidding season (p = 0.045) was a significant factor, for ‘high proportion (> 27%) of Haemonchus contortus in faecal samples’ nutritional modifications during gestation (p = 0.002) and application of reproductive control practices in the farm (p = 0.013) were the significant factors and for ‘presence of D. dendriticum in faecal samples’ the number of veterinary visits to the farm annually (p = 0.040) was found to be significant.

Helminth Infections in Dairy Sheep Found in an Extensive Countrywide Study in Greece and Potential Predictors for Their Presence in Faecal Samples

The aims of the present study were: (a) to describe the prevalence of helminth infections from pooled faecal samples from sheep flocks across Greece and (b) to evaluate flock-related factors potentially associated with the presence of these infections in the flocks. An extensive countrywide study was performed on 325 sheep farms throughout Greece; faecal samples were collected from ewes and processed for the identification of helminth parasites. Helminths were detected in samples from 92.9% of flocks; these included Dicrocoelium dendriticum (16.7% of flocks), Fasciola hepatica (0.6%), Paramphistomum cervi (2.2%), Moniezia spp. (18.8%), Trichostrongylidae (85.5%), Nematodirus spp. (18.8%), Strongyloides papillosus (7.1%), Trichuris spp. (20.0%) and lungworms (17.8%). Mean Trichostrongylidae counts across all flocks in the study were 215 epg. Specifically, for Trichostrongylidae, there were differences between flocks that had or had not received anthelmintics during the two months prior to sampling, as well as between flocks located in various areas of the country. In multivariable analyses, for the outcome 'high (>300) epg counts in faecal samples', the month into the lactation period at sampling and the application of reproductive control practices on the farm emerged as significant factors; for the outcome 'high proportion (>63%) of Teladorsagia spp. in faecal samples', the availability of straw bedding emerged as a significant factor; and for the outcome 'high proportion (>63%) of Haemonchus contortus in faecal samples', the age of the farmer emerged as a significant factor. For the outcome 'presence of Trichuris spp. in faecal samples', the provision of finished feed (concentrate) to animals emerged as a significant factor, whilst, finally, for the outcomes 'presence of D. dendriticum in faecal samples' and 'presence of lungworms in faecal samples,' no significant factors emerged.