Prevalence Of Intestinal Helminth Infections Research Articles

Prevalence of intestinal helminth infection among school children in Maksegnit and Enfranz Towns, northwestern Ethiopia, with emphasis on Schistosoma mansoni infection.

BackgroundSchistosomiasis is endemic in Ethiopia and previously unknown transmission foci have been reported from time to time in different parts of the country. Further surveys are required in areas where endemicity of the disease is not known to cover them with control program if transmission is taking place. This study, therefore, aims to assess the magnitude of schistosomiasis mansoni and soil-transmitted helminthiasis in Maksegnit and Enfranz Towns, northwestern Ethiopia.MethodsCross-sectional parasitological and malacological surveys were conducted in three schools found in Maksegnit and Enfranz Towns. Stool specimens were collected from 550 randomly selected school children (age range 5 to 17 years) and processed for microscopic examination using Kato-Katz method (single smear per stool sample). Malacological survey was conducted in Gumara and Garno Rivers found in the study areas. Biomphalaria pfeifferi snails collected from the two rivers were individually exposed to artificial light in order to induce cercarial shedding. Laboratory-bred Swiss albino mice were exposed to the cercariae and definite identification of the schistosome species was made based on morphology.ResultsThe overall prevalence of S. mansoni infection was found to be 49 %; however, it varied by schools, with Selam having 60.7 %, and Maksegnit Number 1 and 2 having 45.8 and 39.6 %, respectively. The respective mean intensity of S. mansoni infection among school children in Selam, Maksegnit Number 1 and Maksegnit Number 2 Schools were 243, 194 and 183 eggs per gram of stool (epg). In all the study areas there was no difference in prevalence of S. mansoni infection in relation to age, however, the prevalence varied by sex, with males having highest prevalence (54.5 % vs 44.1 %) (p = 0.012). Adult S. mansoni worms were harvested from mice exposed to cercariae shed from B. pfeifferi on the 6th week post-exposure. The prevalence of Ascaris lumbricoides single infection was 16.5 % while its co-infection with S. mansoni was 18.2 %.ConclusionInfections of young children, findings of schistosome infected snails, establishment of mice infection and harvesting adult worms from the lab-bred mice confirm that autochthonous transmission is taking place in the study areas. Hence, preventive chemotherapy with praziquantel should be put in place, complemented with other measures such as provision of sanitary facilities and health education, to control morbidity and transmission of schistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminthiasis in the study areas.

Prevalence of intestinal helminth infections among school aged children in elele, south-south Nigeria

A study on the prevalence of intestinal helminth infections, using stool samples of 396 school children comprising of 198 each male and female randomly selected from 50 households, was conducted in Elele, South-South Nigeria, between March and June, 2013. Their basic information like sex, age and drinking water source were collected using a selfadministered questionnaire. The prevalence of intestinal helminth infection varied significantly among males (6.57%) and females (3.4%). Prevalence also varied significantly among various age groups, with age group 7–9 having highest infection of Trichuris trichiura (2.25%) while age group 4–6 had higher prevalence of Strongyloides stercoralis and Taenia sp. (1.65%). Children within age group 1–3 years had highest prevalence of Ascaris lumbricoides (2.38%) and finally children within age group 10–12 were with the highest prevalence rate of hookworm (1.96%). Similarly the people who drink stream water had higher prevalence values i.e. 2.27, 3.03, 3.03 and 1.52% for S. stercoralis, A. lumbricoides, Taenia sp. and hookworms, respectively. T. trichiura was absent in people who drink stream water while those who drink Sachet or table water had prevalence rate of 1.52%.

Impact on prevalence of intestinal helminth infection in school children administered with seven annual rounds of diethyl carbamazine (DEC) with albendazole

One third of the world's population is infected with one or more of the most common soil-transmitted helminths (STH). Albendazole (ALB) is being administered with diethyl carbamazine (DEC) in filariasis endemic areas to eliminate lymphatic filariasis (LF) and helminth infections. In this study, the cumulative impact of seven annual rounds of mass drug administrations (MDA) of DEC and ALB on STH infection in school children in selected villages in southern India was determined. During 2001-2010, seven MDAs were implemented by the Tamil Nadu s0 tate h0 ealth d0 epartment, India. LF and STH infections were monitored in school children from 18 villages of the two treatment arms (viz, DEC alone and DEC+ALB). Kato-Katz cellophane quantitative thick smear technique was employed to estimate STH infections at three weeks, six months and one year post MDA. Prior to treatment, an overall STH prevalence was 60 per cent. After each MDA, infection markedly reduced at three weeks post-treatment in both the arms. The prevalence increased at six months period, which was maintained up to one year. After seven rounds of MDA, the infection reduced from 60.44 to 12.48 per cent in DEC+ALB arm; while the reduction was negligible in DEC alone arm (58.77 to 52.70%). Seven rounds of MDA with DEC+ALB reduced the infection load significantly, and further sustained low level of infection for 10 years. However, complete parasite elimination could not be achieved. To curtail STH infection in the community, MDA should be regularized and environmental sanitation measures need to be improved by effective community-based campaigns.

Prevalence of Intestinal Helminthiases and Associated Factors among Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Clinic of Nigist Eleni Mohammed Memorial Hospital, Hossana, Southern Ethiopia

Background: In the developing world, young women, pregnant women, and their infants and children frequently experience repeated helminthic infection, that lead to anemia, intrauterine growth retardation and low birth weight. Despite the difference in distribution of helminths infection within a country, the information on prevalence of intestinal Helminthiases and its associated risk factors among pregnant women in the area is lacking. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the prevalence of intestinal helminthic infection among pregnant women attending antenatal care (ANC) clinic of Nigist Eleni Mohammed Memorial Hospital Hossana, Southern Ethiopia. Method and Materials: A hospital based cross sectional study design was employed. Two hundred and fifty eight pregnant women attending the hospital ANC clinic from October 1 to 30, 2013 were included in the study. Structured questionnaire was used to collect data using interviewer administered technique. For parasitological examination, formol ether concentration technique was used to detect helminthes from clinical specimen. Data were analyzed using SPSS for windows version 16.0. Statistical tests were performed at the level of significance of 5%. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was done to identify the significant risk factors. Result: The overall prevalence of any helminths infection was 29.5%. A. lumbricoides was the predominant helminths infection, detected in 10.1% of pregnant women. There is positive association between family size and helminths infection [AOR = 4.45; 95% CI; (1.98, 10.02)], presence of water body in the vicinity of residence [AOR = 3.39; 95% CI = 1.20, 9.57], habit of walking bare foot [AOR = 3.23; 95% CI; 1.28, 8.15)], unprotected source [AOR = 8.71, 95% CI; (1.60, 27.39)] and rural residence [AOR = 3.64, 95% CI; (1.33, 9.97)]. Monthly income > 1500 Eth. Birr [AOR = 0.48; 95% CI; (0.23, 0.99)] and living in thatched roof house [AOR = 0.24, 95% CI; (0.06, 0.89)] were found to have negative association with helminths infection. Conclusion: The present study showed high prevalence of intestinal helminthes among pregnant women in the study area. Stool exam should be routinely performed during antenatal care follow-up. Public health measures should continue to emphasize the importance of environmental and personal hygiene as well as provide and monitor the quality of drinking water aiming to obtain a better quality of life.

Intestinal helminthic infections among elementary students of Babile town, eastern Ethiopia.

IntroductionIntestinal helminthic infections are important public health problems in developing countries. In Ethiopia, intestinal parasitic infections are highly prevalent because of low living standards and poor environmental sanitation. There are several areas in Ethiopia from which epidemiological information is lacking including Babile town. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of intestinal helminthic infection among students of Babile town.MethodsA cross sectional study was conducted from May 14 to June 08, 2012. Stool samples collected from 644 students were examined by the McMaster method. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 16.0. Univariate analysis was carried out using the Chi-square test to check for presence or absence of association between exposure and the presence of infection and odds ratios with 95% CI were computed to measure the strength of association. Logistic regression was used to calculate predictors of helminthic infection. Statistical significance was set at P < 0.05.ResultsThe prevalence of intestinal helminths was 13.8%, of which three students were infected with soil transmitted helminths with a prevalence rate of 0.47%. The prevalence of Hymenolepis nana, Enterobius vermicularis, hookworm, and Trichiura trichiura infections were 13, 0.6, 0.3, and 0.2% respectively. Intestinal helminthic infection was significantly associated with grade and sex of the school children.ConclusionThe prevalence of intestinal helminths was low. Health information dissemination is recommended. Since infection by Hymenolepis nana is a long term health problem in the area, provision of regular treatment by anthelminthic drug of choice for hymenolepiasis is also recommended

English

Lack of sanitary facilities and associated poor personal and environmental hygiene predispose people to the risk of intestinal parasite infections Thus, the objective of this survey was to assess the prevalence of intestinal helminth infections and associated risk factors among primary school children in selected kebeles of Enderta district, Tigray, northern Ethiopia. A cross sectional parasitological study consisting of 480 school children was conducted between February and March, 2011. Interview and microscopic examination of stool specimens of the children were made. Data was entered and analyzed by statistical packages for social sciences (SPSS) version 16.0 soft ware. The overall prevalence for at least one intestinal helminthic infection was 41.46% (199/480). The most dominant helminths were Schistosoma mansoni (23.13%), Hymenolepis nana (11.46%), Ascaris lumbricoides (5.83%) and Enterobius vermicularis (5.42%). Male children were at high risk for intestinal helminth infection than females (P &lt; 0.014). Hand washing habit before meal (P = 0.0001), cleanness of fingernails (P = 0.0001) and swimming habit of the children (P = 0.0001) were significantly associated with intestinal helminth infections. Provision of health education, improving personal hygiene, potable drinking water supply as well as school based deworming should be the major focus area of the regional as well as Federal Health institutions. Key words: Intestinal helminths, prevalence, risk factors, school children, Tigray. &nbsp

Prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections among children under five years of age with emphasis on Schistosoma mansoni in Wonji Shoa Sugar Estate, Ethiopia.

Intestinal parasite infections are major public health problems of children in developing countries causing undernutrition, anemia, intestinal obstruction and mental and physical growth retardation. This study was conducted to assess the prevalence of intestinal helminthic infections among children under five years of age with emphasis on Schistosoma mansoni in Wonji Shoa Sugar Estate, Ethiopia. A cross-sectional parasitological survey was conducted in under-five children living in Wonji Shoa Sugar Estate Ethiopia, April, 2013. Stool samples were collected and examined for intestinal parasites using single Kato-Katz and single Sodium acetate-acetic acid-formalin (SAF) solution concentration methods. Out of 374 children examined using single Kato-Katz and single SAF-concentration methods, 24.3% were infected with at least one intestinal parasite species. About 10.4%, 8.8%, 4.6%, 2.9%, 1.6% and 0.8% of the children were infected with Hymenolepis nana, Schistosoma mansoni, Ascaris lumbricoides, Trichuris trichiura, Enterobius vermicularis and hookworm, respectively. Prevalence of double, triple and quadruple intestinal helminthic infection was 6.4%, 0.54% and 1.1%, respectively. A significant increase in prevalence of S. mansoni (8.3% versus 3.2%) and T. trichiura (2.7% versus 0.5%) infection was observed when determined via the single Kato-Katz method compared to the prevalence of the parasites determined via the single SAF-concentration method. On the other hand, the single SAF-concentration method (9.1%) revealed a significantly higher prevalence of H. nana infection than the single Kato-Katz (1.6%) does. In conclusion, intestinal helminths infections particularly S. mansoni and H. nana were prevalent in under-five children of Wonji Shoa Sugar Estate. Including praziquantel treatment in the deworming program as per the World Health Organization guidelines would be vital to reduce the burden of these diseases in areas where S. mansoni and H. nana infections are prevalent among under-fives. Kato-Katz can be used in estimating the prevalence of S. mansoni and other helminth infections.

Prevalence of Intestinal Schistosomiasis and Soil Transmitted Helminthiasis among Primary School Children in Umolante District, South Ethiopia

Introduction: Intestinal Schistosomiasis and Soil transmitted helminthic infections (STIs) are among the major public health problems in the world, especially in Subsaharan Africa. Objective: To determine the prevalence of intestinal schistosomiais and soil transmitted helminthic infections and associated factors among Umolante primary school children, South Ethiopia. Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted among Primary School Children in Umolante Destrict, South Ethiopia. A total of 405 school children were selected at random. For each selected subject interview and stool examination was done. Interviews were used to identify the risk factors. Stool specimens were examined using the Kato-Katz technique. Data was entered and analyzed using SPSS version 16.0 statistical packages software. Results: The overall prevalence of intestinal helminthic infection was 26.9%. The predominant parasites were hookworm 59(14.6%) and S.mansoni 51(12.6%). Prevalence of S.mansoni infection was significantly higher in males (p=0.006) whereas hookworm infection was significantly higher in females (P=0.015). Other helminthes found were E.vermicularis (1%), whipworm (1.5%), tapeworm (1.5%) and A.lumbricoides (0.5%). The highest prevalence of S.mansoni was reported in the age group of 10-14 years (17.8%) followed by the age group 15 and above (11.6%) and the difference was statistically significant (P=0.02). Geometric mean intensity was also highest in the same age group (245 eggs per gram). The overall prevalence of infection was 7.7% for girls and 17.1% for boys and the difference was statistically significant (p=0.006). Bathing practice in the nearby stream was significantly associated with S.mansoni infection (OR, 3.4, 95.0% C.I., 1.5-5.3, P=0.03). Conclusion and recommendation: On the basis of these results, it can be concluded that intestinal helminthic infections are important health problems among school children. Hence, integrated control programme including periodic deworming, shoes wearing, improving sanitation, provision of safe water supply are needed to have a lasting impact on transmission these diseases.

HIV and intestinal parasite co-infections among a Chinese population: an immunological profile.

BackgroundParasite infections often result in a switch of the human body’s predominant immune reaction from T-helper 1 (Th1)-type to Th2-type. Hence, parasite infections are widely expected to accelerate the progression of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). In the People’s Republic of China, both parasitic diseases and AIDS are epidemic in certain rural areas, and co-infections are relatively common. However, no population-based studies have yet investigated the frequency of HIV and parasite co-infections, and its effects on immune responses. We studied (1) the immune status of an HIV-infected population, and (2) the effect of co-infection of HIV and intestinal parasites on selected parameters of the human immune system.MethodsA total of 309 HIV-infected individuals were recruited and compared to an age-matched and sex-matched control group of 315 local HIV-negative individuals. Questionnaires were administered to all participants to obtain information on sociodemographic characteristics, sanitation habits, family income, and recent clinical manifestations. Two consecutive stool samples and 10 ml samples of venous blood were also collected from each individual for the diagnosis of parasite infections and quantitative measurements of selected cytokines and CD4+ T-lymphocytes, respectively.ResultsDuring the study period, 79 HIV-infected individuals were not under highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) and were thus included in our analysis; the prevalence of intestinal helminth infections was 6.3% and that of protozoa was 22.8%. The most common protozoan infections were Blastocystis hominis (B. hominis) (13.9%) and Cryptosporidium spp. (10.1%). The prevalence of Cryptosporidium spp. in HIV-infected individuals was significantly higher than that in HIV negative individuals (P < 0.05). Compared to the non-co-infected population, no significant difference was found for any of the measured immunological indicators (P > 0.05). However, the following trends were observed: IFN-γ levels were lower, but the IL-4 level was higher, in the population co-infected with HIV and helminths. In the population co-infected with HIV and B. hominis, the IL-2 level was higher. The population co-infected with HIV and Cryptosporidium spp. had markedly lower CD4+ T-lymphocyte counts.ConclusionAccording to the immunologic profile, co-infection with helminths is disadvantageous to HIV-infected individuals. It was associated with a shift in the Th1/Th2 balance in the same direction as that caused by the virus itself, which might indicate an acceleration of the progress from an HIV infection to AIDS. Co-infection with Cryptosporidium spp. was not associated with a significant change in immune factors but co-infection with Cryptosporidium spp. was associated with a reduced level of CD4 + T-lymphocytes, confirming the opportunistic nature of such infections. Co-infection with B. hominis, on the other hand, was associated with an antagonistic shift in the immunological profile compared to an HIV infection.

Prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections and risk factors among schoolchildren at the University of Gondar Community School, Northwest Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundIntestinal parasitic infections are among the major public health problems in Sub-Saharan Africa. Their distribution is mainly associated with poor personal hygiene, environmental sanitation and limited access to clean water. Indeed, epidemiological information on the prevalence of various intestinal parasitic infections in different localities is a prerequisite to develop appropriate control measures. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections and associated risk factors among schoolchildren.MethodThis school-based cross-sectional study was undertaken at the University of Gondar Community School from April 2012 to June 2012. Study subjects were selected using a systematic random sampling method. Data were gathered through direct interview by using a pretested questionnaire. The collected stool specimens were examined microscopically for the presence of eggs, cysts and trophozoites of intestinal parasites using direct saline smear and formol-ether concentration methods. Data entry and analysis were done using SPSS version 16 software.ResultOut of 304 study subjects, 104 (34.2%) were infected with one or more intestinal parasites. The prevalence rate was 43 (32.1%) for male and 61 (35.9%) for female. The prevalence of intestinal parasites was high in age group of 10–12 years compared to other age groups. The predominant intestinal parasite was Hymenolepis nana, followed by Entamoeba histolytica/dispar and Ascaris lumbricoides with 42 (13.8%), 28 (9.2%), 18 (5.9%), respectively. Hand washing practice and ways of transportation were statistically associated with intestinal parasitic infections. Children in grades 1 to 3 had a higher prevalence of intestinal helminthic infection than those in grades 4 to 8 (p = 0.031).ConclusionsIntestinal parasites were prevalent in varying magnitude among the schoolchildren. The prevalence of infections were higher for helminths compared to protozoa. Measures including education on personal hygiene, environmental sanitation, water supply and treatment should be taken into account to reduce the prevalence of intestinal parasites.

National intestinal helminth survey among schoolchildren in Tajikistan: Prevalences, risk factors and perceptions

Solid evidence regarding the epidemiology of intestinal helminth infections in Tajikistan is currently lacking. As such information is essential for the evidence-based design, implementation and evaluation of control interventions, a national intestinal helminth survey was conducted with the following objectives: (i) to assess the prevalence of intestinal helminth infections among school-aged children nationally and stratified by region; (ii) to identify locally relevant risk factors for infection; and (iii) to better understand the children's knowledge and perception of intestinal helminth infections, and asses their haemoglobin status. Standard field and laboratory procedures including the Kato-Katz thick smear and tape test were employed. Complete data was obtained for 1642 children from 33 randomly selected primary schools from different parts of the country. Across the country, prevalences of E. vermicularis, A. lumbricoides, H. nana and T. trichiura were 26.5%, 16.9%, 15.5% and 2.7% respectively. The prevalence of common soil-transmitted helminth (A. lumbricoides and T. trichiura) infections was 19.4%. No hookworm infections were detected, and prevalences of various infections differed significantly between administrative districts (all P<0.05). Hand washing after toilet usage (OR=0.78; P=0.047) and handling animals (OR=0.66; P=0.009) were identified as significant protective factors against E. vermicularis infections. H. nana infection was associated with a 2.85g/L decrease in haemoglobin levels (P<0.001) despite already low average haemoglobin levels. The proportions of children with knowledge about intestinal helminths and protective hygiene practices varied significantly between regions (both P<0.001). Mass albendazole administration to school-aged children and women of child-bearing age against intestinal helminths has been conducted in Tajikistan in spring 2012, followed by mass albendazole and praziquantel distribution to school-aged children in autumn 2012. In the longer term, an integrated approach including chemotherapy, provision of safe water and proper sanitation as well as targeted health education will be necessary to achieve sustainable control.

Prevalence of Intestinal Helminthic Infection among School Children in Rural and Semi Urban Communities in Nigeria.

The present study looks at the prevalence of soil transmitted helminths among school children from a rural and a semi urban setting at the Nsukka region of Enugu State of Nigeria. Stool samples were collected randomly and examined by basic parasitological techniques for the presence of intestinal helminths. 255 samples were collected and examined. Of these, 116(45.5%) were infected with the results being statistically significant (P < 0.001). Ascaris lumbricoides was encountered in 46% of the infected specimens, hookworms in 23%, Trichuris trichuira in 9% and Strongyloides stercoralis in 11%. Samples from the group 2 pupils who were from the rural setting had the highest prevalence in worm infestation and the results were statistically significant (P < 0.05). With respect to age, of the 4 age groups involved in the study, the 8-10 years were found to be the most infected in both groups with 100% infection for the group 2 samples while the 14-16 were the least infected and the results are significant statistically.

Intestinal Helminth Infections and Nutritional Status of Children Attending Primary Schools in Wakiso District, Central Uganda

A cross-sectional study to assess the prevalence of intestinal helminth infections and nutritional status of primary school children was conducted in the Wakiso district in Central Uganda. A total of 432 primary school children aged 6–14 years were randomly selected from 23 schools. Anthropometric measurements of weight, height, MUAC were undertaken and analyzed using AnthroPlus software. Stool samples were examined using a Kato-Katz method. The prevalence of stunting, underweight and moderate acute malnutrition (MAM) was 22.5%, 5.3% and 18.5% respectively. Males had a threefold risk of being underweight (OR 3.2, 95% CI 1.17–9.4, p = 0.011) and 2 fold risk of suffering from MAM (OR 2.1, 95% CI 1.21–3.48, p = 0.004). Children aged 10–14 years had a 2.9 fold risk of stunting (OR 2.9, 95% CI 1.37–6.16, p = 0.002) and 1.9 risk of MAM (OR 1.9, 95% CI 1.07–3.44, p = 0.019). Attending urban slum schools had 1.7 fold risk of stunting (OR 1.7, 95% CI 1.03–2.75, p = 0.027). Rural schools presented a twofold risk of helminth infection (OR 1.95, 95% CI 1.12–3.32, p = 0.012). The prevalence of helminth infections was (10.9%), (3.1%), (1.9%), (0.2%) for hookworm, Trichuria trichiura, Schistosoma mansoni and Ascaris lumbricoides, respectively. The study revealed that 26.6%, 46% and 10.3% of incidences of stunting, underweight and MAM respectively were attributable to helminth infections.

Co-infection of HIV and intestinal parasites in rural area of China.

BackgroundIntestinal parasite infections (IPIs) are among the most significant causes of illness and disease of socially and economically disadvantaged populations in developing countries, including rural areas of the People's Republic of China. With the spread of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) among rural Chinese populations, there is ample scope for co-infections and there have been increasing fears about their effects. However, hardly any relevant epidemiological studies have been carried out in the country. The aim of the present survey was to assess the IPI infection status among a representative sample of HIV-positive Chinese in rural Anhui province, and compare the findings with those from a cohort of non-infected individuals.MethodsA case control study was carried out in a rural village of Fuyang, Anhui province, China. Stool samples of all participants were examined for the presence of intestinal parasites. Blood examination was performed for the HIV infection detection and anemia test. A questionnaire was administered to all study participants.ResultsA total of 302 HIV positive and 303 HIV negative individuals provided one stool sample for examination. The overall IPI prevalence of intestinal helminth infections among HIV positives was 4.3% (13/302) while it was 5.6% (17/303) among HIV negatives, a non-significant difference. The prevalence of protozoa infections among HIV positives was 23.2% while the rate was 25.8% among HIV negatives. The species-specific prevalences among HIV positives were as follows: 3.6% for hookworm, 0.7% for Trichuris trichiura, zero for Ascaris lumbricoides, 0.3% for Clonorchis sinensis, 1.3% for Giardia intestinalis, 16.2% for Blastocystis hominis, 1.7% for Entamoeba spp. and 8.3% for Cryptosporidium spp.. Cryptosporidium spp. infections were significantly more prevalent among HIV positives (8.3%) compared to the HIV negative group (3.0%; P < 0.05). Among people infected with HIV, Cryptosporidium spp. was significantly more prevalent among males (12.6%) than females (4.4%; P < 0.05). According to multivariate logistic regression, the factors significantly associated with parasite infections of the people who were HIV positive included sex (male: OR = 6.70, 95% CI: 2.030, 22.114), younger age (less than 42 years old: OR = 4.148, 95% CI: 1.348, 12.761), and poor personal hygiene habits (OR = 0.324, 95% CI: 0.105, 0.994).ConclusionsHIV positive individuals are more susceptible to co-infections with Cryptosporidium spp. than HIV negative people, particularly younger males with poor personal hygiene habits, indicating a need for targeted hygiene promotion, IPI surveillance and treatment.

Prevalence of Intestinal Helminth Infections and Associated Socio-Demographic Variables among Schooling Children of the Public Elementary Schools of Maramag, Bukidnon, Philippines

Certain socio-demographic factors can strongly influenced transmission and infection of helminth parasites but these factors are variable due practices and traditions, age groups, geographical locations, sex, education, and sanitation. To determine and identify regional demographic, environmental and behavioral variables among the schooling children of Maramag, Bukidnon, a survey was conducted from June to August 2009 in five public elementary schools of Maramag, Bukidnon: Dologon Elementary School ( n =96), Famador Elementary School ( n =93), Maramag Central Elementary School ( n =65), Base Camp Elementary School ( n =95) and San Miguel Elementary School ( n =69). Each student was given a questionnaire and a fecal bottle. Fecal samples from 418 individuals were analyzed for the presence of helminths. Using direct microscopic examination, 18 (4.30%) individuals were positive for helminth infection out of 418 fecal specimens. The most common parasite was Ascaris lumbricoides with 6 (1.43%) individuals infected, 5 (1.19%) with Enterobius vermicularis , 4 with Necator americanus , 2 with Strongyloides sp and 1 with Trichuris trichura . By univariate analysis, all socio-demographic variables were not significantly associated to a particular helminth infection. However, high frequency of infected individuals can be observed in a certain socio-demographic variable. Among the 18 infected individuals 10 (58%) were, their mothers have no formal education. Thirteen infected individuals (72.22%) were from a low-income family having less than 5,000 pesos per month, and 12 (66.67%) infected individuals belong to a large-member-family having greater than eight members. Keywords: socio-demographic variables, helminth infections, prevalence

Malnutrition and intestinal helminth infections in schoolchildren from Dibanda, Cameroon

Intestinal helminth infections and malnutrition constitute a major health burden in developing countries, with infants and children being the most vulnerable groups. The extent of the burden of intestinal helminth infections and malnutrition was investigated in a cross-sectional study involving 265 children aged between 4 and 14 years residing in Dibanda, a semi-rural area located in Buea, South West Region, Cameroon. The prevalence of intestinal helminth infections was determined microscopically after faecal samples were prepared by the formol-ether sedimentation concentration technique of stool analysis. Nutritional status was determined using age and the anthropometric parameters of weight and height. Standard deviation (SD) or Z scores of height-for-age (HAZ), weight-for-age (WAZ) and weight-for-height (WHZ) were computed based on the World Health Organization 2006 growth reference curves. Anaemia was assessed by packed cell volume (PCV). The prevalence of intestinal helminth infection in the study population was 47.2% (125/265). All infections were of low intensity, with Ascaris recording the highest geometric mean egg count (GMEC) ± SEM of 363.51 ± 60.35 (egg count range: 76-3000 eggs/gram of stool). Overall, 42.3% of children had PCV < 31%. Also, 47.2% of those with intestinal helminth infections also had PCV < 31%. The prevalence of malnutrition was 30.2% (80/265). Of 80 malnourished children, 5.3% were wasted ( < - 2SD weight-for-height Z-score), 7.2% underweight ( < - 2SD weight-for-age Z score) and 24.2% stunted ( < - 2SD height-for-age Z score). The mean values of all the anthropometric indices were lower in helminth-infected children. Findings from this study are strongly suggestive that intestinal helminth infections and malnutrition exist in children residing in Dibanda and constitute a major health problem that needs to be addressed immediately to reduce morbidity and mortality.

The epidemiology of soil-transmitted helminth and protozoan infections in south-west Cameroon

A cross-sectional study of the prevalence, intensity and effects of soil-transmitted helminth and protozoan infections was undertaken among patients at the Buea Hospital Annex located in Buea sub-division of Cameroon. Stool samples from 356 subjects (174 males and 182 females) were collected and processed using standard concentration methods. Our results showed that 31.0% of subjects were infected with intestinal helminths and the prevalence was higher in females (32.4%) than in males (30.5%). A significantly higher prevalence was observed in rural (47.2%) than in urban areas (21.0%); significance < 0.1%. Prevalence was highest among those aged between 6 and 12 years (41.4%). The total prevalence of intestinal helminth infections were 19.3% for Ascaris lumbricoides, 14.0% for hookworm and 11.8% for Trichuris trichiura. The intensity of infection was unevenly distributed, with very heavy loads concentrated in a few individuals. Data also showed that 28.1% (100/356) of the subjects were infected with protozoans. Females showed a higher prevalence (28.6%; 52/182) than males (20.7%; 36/174). Also, there was a significantly higher prevalence in rural (34.0%; 49/144) than urban areas (18.4%; 39/212); significance < 0.1%. The age group 6-12 years again had a higher prevalence (37.1%; 26/70). The total prevalence of intestinal protozoans was: Entamoeba histolytica (24.4%), Entamoeba coli (11.2%) and Giardia lamblia (0.6%). These relatively heavy prevalences in patients may be reduced by appropriate medication and maintaining strict personal hygiene. Health education, clean water supply, good sewage management and a congenial environment will all help to minimize infection.

Rapid appraisal of human intestinal helminth infections among schoolchildren in Osh oblast, Kyrgyzstan

A population-representative lot quality assurance sampling (LQAS) survey was conducted in 2009 to determine the prevalence of intestinal helminth infections among schoolchildren across Osh oblast, Kyrgyzstan. The diagnostic approach consisted of duplicate Kato-Katz thick smears from a single stool sample and an adhesive tape test. A questionnaire was administered to identify risk factors for infections. A total of 1262 schoolchildren aged 6–15 years were recruited; 41% of them harboured at least one of the eight identified helminth species. The two most prevalent helminths were Ascaris lumbricoides (23.1%) and Enterobius vermicularis (19.3%). Lower prevalences were found for Hymenolepis nana (4.4%), Fasciola hepatica (1.9%) and Dicrocoelium dendriticum (1.8%). Washing raw vegetables was a protective factor with regard to A. lumbricoides infection (odds ratio (OR) = 0.69, p = 0.022); tap water was borderline protective (OR = 0.56, p = 0.057). Children of the richest families were at a lower risk of E. vermicularis infection than the poorest ones (OR = 0.41, p = 0.011). Sharing the bed with more than one person was a risk factor for E. vermicularis infection (OR = 2.0, p = 0.002). The results call for targeted interventions against intestinal helminths in Osh oblast. In a first stage, annual deworming of schoolchildren and other high-risk groups with albendazole or mebendazole should be implemented, and reliable diagnosis and additional anthelminthic drugs should be made available. Subsequently, transmission control including locally-adapted health education, improved water supply and adequate sanitation should become the central features.

Prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections among patients attending Bugando Medical Centre in Mwanza, north-western Tanzania: a retrospective study

Gastrointestinal helminths and protozoan parasites may cause mild, acute and chronic human infections. There is inadequate reliable information on the epidemiology of these parasites among patients attending tertiary hospitals in Tanzania. This retrospective study was conducted using hospital data obtained from the Department of Medical Parasitology of Bugando Medical Centre (BMC) in Mwanza, Tanzania. A total of 3152 stool samples were recorded from January 2008-March 2010. Intestinal parasitic infections were recovered in 57.1% (1799/3152) of the stool samples. Helminths eggs were observed in 36.6% (1,153/3,152) of the samples with hookworm eggs recovered in 25.2% (793/3125) and S. mansoni in 5.6% (177/3125) of the samples. Protozoan parasites were recovered in 20.5% (646/3152) of the samples in which 13.6% 428/3152) had Entamoeba histolytica/ E. dispar and 6.9% (218/3152) Giardia lamblia. Prevalence of intestinal helminth infections was higher in females, 55.7% (95CI%, 51.7-59.7, n= 642) than males (n=511, 44.3%, 95%CI, 40.3-48.6). Similarly, the prevalence of protozoan infections was significantly higher among females (58.1%, 95%CI, 53.1-63.1) than males (42.3%, 95%CI, 36.5-48.2). The prevalence of helminth infections was highest among 45+ years olds and lowest in the 0-4 years olds while that of protozoan infections was highest in the 5-14 years age group (30.9%, 95%CI, 27.9-33.8) and lowest in the 0-4 years age group. In conclusion, this study shows that intestinal helminth and protozoan infections are among the common parasitic infections among patients presenting at BMC. This information may provide invaluable statistics needed for planning meaningful public control programmes that aim at reducing the prevalence and morbidity of parasitic infections.

Effect of Social Class and Area of Domicile on the Prevalence of Intestinal Helminthiasis in Nursery and Primary School Children in Enugu

Objective: The primary objective of the study was to determine the effect of social class and area of domicile on the prevalence of helminthiasis in nursery and primary school children in Enugu.Subjects and method: This was a cross-sectional study in which stool samples were obtained from 460 nursery and primary school children from different social classes and different areas of domicile and analysed for intestinal helminthiasis using the Kato Katz method.Results: One hundred and sixty-six (36.1%) of the 460 children studied lived in the urban area; 215 (46.7%) lived in the semi-urban area and 79 (17.2%) lived in the urban slum area. The prevalence of intestinal helminthic infection was lowest in children living in urban areas (10.2%) and highest in those in urban slums (48.4%). There was a significant relationship between residential abode or area of domicile and prevalence of helminthic infection (&chi;2 = 59.54; df = 2; p = 0.001).The prevalence of intestinal helminthic infection was highest in the lower class (50.9%), lowest in the upper class (9.7%) and intermediate in the middle class (21.7%). This trend was statistically significant (&chi;2 = 65.06; df = 2; p = 0.001). Conclusion: It is concluded that the prevalence of intestinal helminthiasis is affected by both areas of domicile and social class of children. Hence, intervention by the government to create better areas of domicile and to improve the social class of its populace will reduce the prevalence of intestinal helminthiasis.Keywords: Intestinal helminthiasis, children, area of domicile, social class