Prevalence Of Intestinal Parasites Research Articles

Co-infection of Helicobacter Pylori and intestinal parasites in children of selected Low-income communities in Lagos State, Nigeria

Helicobacter pylori and intestinal parasites cause gastrointestinal diseases with a high prevalence in children in resource limited developing countries. There is paucity of information in Nigeria on co-infection of H. pylori and intestinal parasites. The study was conducted to determine the prevalence of H. pylori and parasite co-infection in children from selected low-income communities in Lagos, Nigeria. Fecal samples were collected from 151 healthy children aged ≤11 years across six low-income communities in Lagos. H. pylori was detected using stool antigen test and conventional PCR assay, intestinal parasites were detected using formol-ether concentration and nested PCR assay. Structured questionnaires were administered to parents and legal guardians of the children by an interviewer to collect relevant data on demographic and lifestyle factors. The prevalence of H. pylori was 31.79% (48), with a higher prevalence in children aged 2–3 years. The prevalence of intestinal parasites was 21.19% (32) with the lowest frequency found in children aged 8–9 years. The parasites detected include: A. lumbricoides (10.6%), G. intestinalis (7.3%), hookworm (1.99%), E. histolytica (0.66%), S. mansoni (0.66%). There was co-infection prevalence of 10.6% (16) which was associated with the parasites: G. intestinalis (7.3%) and A. lumbricoides (3.97%). Polyparasitism with G. intestinalis and A. lumbricoides was reported in 2 children infected with H. pylori. This study which is the first reported in Lagos established a low prevalence of H. pylori and intestinal parasite co-infection in children and provides better understanding of the epidemiology of H. pylori infection associated with intestinal parasites in Nigeria.

Harnessing the power of new genetic tools to illuminate Giardia biology and pathogenesis

Abstract Giardia is a prevalent single-celled microaerophilic intestinal parasite causing diarrheal disease and significantly impacting global health. Double diploid (essentially tetraploid) Giardia trophozoites have presented a formidable challenge to the development of molecular genetic tools to interrogate gene function. High sequence divergence and the high percentage of hypothetical proteins lacking homology to proteins in other eukaryotes have limited our understanding of Giardia protein function, slowing drug target validation and development. For more than 25 years, Giardia A and B assemblages have been readily amenable to transfection with plasmids or linear DNA templates. Here, we highlight the utility and power of genetic approaches developed to assess protein function in Giardia, with particular emphasis on the more recent clustered regularly interspaced palindromic repeats/Cas9-based methods for knockdowns and knockouts. Robust and reliable molecular genetic approaches are fundamental toward the interrogation of Giardia protein function and evaluation of druggable targets. New genetic approaches tailored for the double diploid Giardia are imperative for understanding Giardia's unique biology and pathogenesis.

Histopathological investigation and risk factors of Coccidiosis in camels (Camelus dromedarius), Algeria

Coccidiosis in dromedaries is an intestinal protozoan infection caused by apicomplexan parasites belonging to the genus Eimeria. A prospective examination was conducted at two slaughterhouses in southern Algeria. The primary objective of this investigation was to ascertain the prevalence of intestinal parasites in camels, elucidate the associated microscopic lesions, and identify the risk factors contributing to this infestation. In pursuit of this, we procured four segments of the intestines from 31 dromedarieas that appeared healthy and displayed no symptoms. Subsequently, these samples were collected, preserved, subjected to routine processing, and subsequently stained with haematoxylin and eosin (H&E). Intestinal parasitic infection showed an incidence rate of 45.16% (14 out of 31). Specifically, two types of parasites were discerned in the intestinal specimens through microscopic examination, namely Eimeria (41.93%; 13 out of 31) (p-value = 0.046) and Taenia (3.22%; 1 out of 31) (p = 0.001). Eimeria cameli was observed in the ceacum (41.93%; 13 out of 31), jejunum (12.90%; 4 out of 31), and in one instance in the duodenum (3.22%; 1 out of 31). Furthermore, numerous development stages of coccidia were identified, including gamonts, schizonts and oocysts. Deep microscopic lesions attributed to Eimeria cameli were detected, such as enteritis, eosinophilic infiltration and inflammation. In addition, associated risk factors were identified. This study has furnished valuable insights into parasitic infestations affecting dromedaries, particularly Eimeria cameli. The molecular studies are needed to delineate the diverse variations within Eimeria strains. Effective parasite control strategies specific to dromedary camels need to be developed.

Investigation of the distribution of some Gastrointestinal Helminths and protozoa in free-ranging dogs in Karbala province

This study aimed to determine the prevalence of intestinal parasites in stray dogs in urban and rural areas. From October 2022 to March 2023 80 fecal samples, which examined by using simple zinc sulfate flotation and Lugol’s solution staining then examined by macroscopically and microscopically for the presence of worm eggs and protozoal oocysts. The overall prevalence of infected dogs in this study is to identify the gastrointestinal parasites and Protozoa in stray dogs. The current study includes seven genera of intestinal helminths and protozoa as follows: three cestodes (Taenia sp. 12%), four nematodes (Toxocara canis 56%, Toxoascara canis. 16%) and two protozoa (Giardia sp. 20% and Cryptosporidium sp. 8%) from all fecal samples of dogs were collected from different regions of Kerbala. The results of high rates of infection were during winter months. The high prevalence of intestinal helminths in the dog’s population suggests the need for more efficient control measures. The high predominance of T. canis, and Giardia spp. suggested that dogs could play an active role in the transmission of zoonotic parasites in this area of Iraq. Educating the dog hunters and increasing their health awareness should be considered in the control program.
   The results of the present study provide relevant ‘‘baseline’’ data for assessing the effectiveness of future control strategies against canine parasitic infections.
  

Gastrointestinal parasites of dogs and foxes in the Zanjan province of Iran: With an emphasis on Echinococcus species

Canids harbor many zoonotic parasites and play an important role in the spread of parasites in the human environment. Estimation of parasitic infection among canids as definitive hosts may help competent authorities design efficient control programs. This study was conducted to determine the prevalence of intestinal parasites in dogs and foxes with an emphasis on Echinococcus spp. A total of 500 fecal samples of dogs and 30 fecal samples of foxes were studied in the summer, autumn, and winter of 2021 in the Zanjan province using the formalin-ethyl acetate concentration technique, followed by multiplex PCR. The overall prevalence of gastrointestinal parasite infection was estimated to be 19.05%. The prevalence was 24.8%, 10.2%, and 26.7% in stray, shelter dogs and foxes, respectively. No parasites were found among pet and guard dog samples. PCR results on Taenidae eggs showed that 2.4% of samples were positive for Echinococcus granulosus and none contained E. multilocularis. Noteworthy is that E. granulosus was identified only in stray dog samples. The higher prevalence of E. granulosus infection in stray dogs in this province emphasizes the importance of monitoring the food sources consumed by these animals.

Assessment of Welfare in Transhumance Yak Hybrids (Chauris) in the Lower Himalayan Region of Nepal

In order to develop a yak/chauri-specific welfare assessment protocol, we sent a set of 31 potential welfare measures to 120 Nepalese experts and asked them to identify the measures that they thought would be useful and propose additional useful measures. Eighty-three experts responded, with 13 measures being identified by >50% of respondents as likely to be useful. These thirteen measures plus one new measure (hematology) were included in an assessment protocol that was tested in the second phase of this study in five chauri herds in two districts in northern Nepal. Animal-based evaluations along with sampling for mastitis, intestinal parasites, and hematology were undertaken during or just after morning milking. Resource- and record-based measures were assessed through structured interviews, with verifications on-site where possible. No chauris exhibited poor body conditions, skin injuries, significant locomotion issues, or significant subclinical mastitis. Fecal testing suggested a high prevalence of intestinal parasites at the herd level, while blood testing suggested no evidence of hematological abnormalities. However, for both results, we need more data to use these effectively as measures of welfare. The resource-based assessment revealed significant challenges across all resources, and veterinary services were reported as being inadequate. A high estimated annual mortality rate (10–21%) needs further investigation. This protocol provided a useful start towards developing a welfare assessment protocol for yak/chauri and identified issues that need addressing to optimize chauri welfare.

Investigation of Head Lice and Intestinal Parasites in Primary and Secondary School in Sivas.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence of intestinal parasites and head lice in primary school-aged children and to determine a possible relationship between the co-occurrence of ecto-endoparasites. The study were conducted in three schools in the center of Sivas: Sivas Karşıyaka Primary School, Kılavuz İMKB Primary School, and Karşıyaka 27 June Middle School. The presence of head lice and intestinal parasites was investigated in a total of 563 children aged 6 to 17, with 294 girls and 269 boys. Classroom teachers and students were provided with information about intestinal parasites, head lice, and methods of transmission and prevention, and a questionnaire was administered. During the head lice examination, students were inspected with a comb, and samples with nits were examined under a microscope in the laboratory. Cellophane tape and stool samples obtained from the participants were examined on the same day using the native-lugol, flotation, and trichrome staining methods under a light microscope (x10, x40, x100). Five hundred sixty-three children were evaluated for head lice and 15 (2.6%) were found to be positive. During the examination, only nits were found in 11 students (1.9%), and both adult lice and nymphs were seen in 4 students (0.7%). Head lice were found positive in 2 out of 269 boys (0.7%), while 13 out of 294 girls (4.2%) positive (p<0.05). As a result of stool examination in children, Entamoeba coli was found in 11 (1.95%), Giardia intestinalis in 4 (0.71%), Blastocystis sp. in 14 (2.48%), Enterobius vermicularis in 8 (1.42%) and Taenia spp. in 2 (0.35%). Head lice infestation and Taenia spp. were found to coexist in 2 (0.35%) children. In conclusion, although there has been a noticeable decrease in head lice and intestinal parasites among primary school-aged children in Sivas province, these conditions are still present, as evidenced by previous studies conducted in our region.

Prevalence of Intestinal Parasites Among Patients Attending A Tertiary Referral Hospital in Mogadishu, Somalia: A 6-year Retrospective Study

Prevalence of Intestinal Parasites Among Patients Attending A Tertiary Referral Hospital in Mogadishu, Somalia: A 6-year Retrospective Study

Detecting Intestinal Parasites in Diarrheal Cases among Children in Dir Lower District

Background: Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) are a critical health concern globally, causing significant morbidity, especially in low-resource settings. Factors such as poor sanitation, limited access to clean water, and suboptimal hygiene practices contribute to their spread. These infections are known to disproportionately affect children in underdeveloped regions, leading to chronic health issues and impeding socio-economic development. Objective: The study aimed to determine the prevalence of intestinal parasites in children presenting with diarrhea in the Dir Lower district of Pakistan and to analyze the distribution of these infections across different age groups and genders. The study also sought to evaluate the knowledge and attitudes towards diarrhea management among mothers of affected children. Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted in THQ hospitals in Samarbagh, Dir Lower. Stool samples were collected from 350 children under surveillance, with 150 positive cases identified for further analysis between October and December 2023. Stool Routine Examination (RE) and microscopy were the primary diagnostic techniques used. Ethical considerations adhered to the Helsinki Declaration. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 25. Results: Out of 350 children surveyed, 38% (n=112) tested positive for at least one intestinal parasite. Giardia lamblia (47.32%) and Entamoeba histolytica (23.21%) were the most prevalent protozoa. The helminths Ascaris lumbricoides (4.46%) and Hymenolepis nana (9.82%) were also detected. The highest incidence of IPIs was among females (78 cases) and children under four years (61 cases). Conclusion: The study confirmed a high prevalence of IPIs among children with diarrhea in Dir Lower, with Giardia lamblia being the most common parasite. The findings underscore the need for improved public health strategies focusing on sanitation and hygiene education, especially in young children and females.

Prevalence of helmintic infections in Brazilian Maxakali indigenous: a repeated cross-sectional design.

The prevalence of intestinal parasites is known to be high among Amerindian populations; further, there are serious problems in the healthcare of these populations in Brazil. The Maxakali, located in the northeastern region of Minas Gerais, Brazil, is an indigenous group that still preserves many of its cultural aspects. This study aimed to compare the positivity rate of schistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminths in this ethnic group in epidemiological surveys conducted in 1972 and 2014. Stool parasitological examinations were performed by the Kato-Katz technique during both periods in this population. In 2014, the parasitological diagnosis was also realized with the TF-Test® technique. In 1972, 270 inhabitants were examined. The positivity rates were 67.4% for Schistosoma mansoni, 72.9% for hookworms, 43.7% for Ascaris lumbricoides, and 23.7% for Trichuris trichiura. In 2014, 545 individuals were examined, and the positivity rates obtained were 45.7% for S. mansoni, 22.8% for hookworms, 0.6% for A. lumbricoides, and 2.8% for T. trichiura. The comparison of the parasitological surveys conducted in 1972 and 2014, indicates that the indigenous Maxakali remained neglected by the health and indigenous protection authorities during these four decades. The infection rate observed in 2014 for schistosomiasis and hookworm remains high, considering the current epidemiological view of these diseases in the Brazilian population.

Prevalence of intestinal parasites and comparison of detection techniques for soil-transmitted helminths among newly arrived expatriate labors in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

Diversity in clinical signs and symptoms are associated with soil transmitted diseases (STD), which are spread to humans by intestinal worms and transmitted in a variety of ways. There is a need for the present study, which aimed to investigate the prevalence of intestinal parasites and to compare between the common detection techniques for soil-transmitted helminths (STHs) among newly arrived expatriate labors in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. A total of 188 stool samples were analyzed by macroscopic examination, and microscopic examination using direct iodine smear and the formal ether sedimentation technique. Trichrome and modified Kinyoun's stains were used to confirm the morphology of any detected protozoa stages and oocyst of Cryptosporidium, respectively. A chromatographic immunoassay kit was used for Entamoeba histolytica, Giardia lamblia and Cryptosporidium. In addition, real-time PCR was employed only to identify various STHs. Out of 188, several types of parasites were detected in 35 samples (18.62%), of which some with multiple infections. Nine samples (4.79%) were positive for Entamoeba coli, seven samples (3.72%) for Trichuris trichiura, six samples (3.19%) for Necator americanus, four samples (2.13%) for Strongyloides stercoralis, four samples (2.13%) for Ascaris lumbricoides, four samples (2.13%) for E. histolytica, three samples (1.60%) for Blastocystis hominis and two samples (1.06%) for Ancylostoma duodenale. In comparison between laboratory techniques for STHs, real-time PCR was able to detect the DNA of 19 samples (10.1%) followed by Ritchie sedimentation technique (18, 9.6%), and direct smear (7, 3.7%) (p > 0.05). The high rate of newly arrived foreign workers infected with intestinal parasites could lead to a risk to society. Continuous and regular surveys are needed to deal with the occurrence of intestinal parasitic infections including STHs. To improve the identification of these infections, we recommend a supporting infrastructure for the application of concentration methods and molecular assays.

An overview of the most recent studies on the prevalence of intestinal parasites among Saudi society, with an emphasis on expatriate workers

An overview of the most recent studies on the prevalence of intestinal parasites among Saudi society, with an emphasis on expatriate workers

Intestinal Parasites Associated with American Cockroach (Periplaneta americana) in Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria.

American cockroach (Periplaneta americana) has been implicated as mechanical vector of parasites of humans and animals. Therefore, this study aimed to identify and determine the prevalence of human intestinal parasites associated with the body surface and gut of P. americana. A total of 221 cockroaches which include 104 males and 117 females were collected from household kitchen, toilet area and canteen after which they were brought to laboratory for study. The body surface of the cockroach was washed with 5ml normal saline solution to remove external parasites on the body surface for examination and later rinsed with 70% alcohol and dried before dissecting. The cockroach was dissected to examine internal parasites. Eleven parasites were recovered and identified, these include Ascarislumbricoides (51.58%),Strongyloides stercoralis (48.42%) Trichuristrichiura (52.49%),Enterobiusvermicularis (37.10%), Taenia spp (14.93%),Toxocara(31.67%), Ancylostoma spp (34.84%), Necator americanus (53.39%), andDiphylidium spp(66.23%) Balantidium coli (66.52%). The parasites were recorded both on the body surface and gut of the cockroach. There is no significant difference (p > 0.05) between parasites infection rate comparing both sexes; though, female cockroach having a higher infection rate (91.45%) than male (81.5%). Cockroach collected from toilets carried more parasites (96.34%) as compared to those from restaurants/canteen (89.71%) and household kitchens (81.69%). All parasites encountered were pathogenic to human and animals. This study has revealed that P. americana can act as mechanical vector by transporting and transmitting these parasites easily to man and animal. Good sanitary practices, reinforcement of worms' eradication programs, and the fight against these insects remain a necessity to contain the menace of parasites burden and cockroach control.

Prevalência e fatores de risco associados a infecções Infecções Parasitárias Intestinais (IPIs) em áreas rurais e urbanas de Quetta, Paquistão

Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) are endemic worldwide and more prevalent in countries with unhygienic conditions. The objective of the research was to identify the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections in rural and urban areas of Quetta, Balochistan and to check their associated risk factors including; age, gender, educational status, sanitary system and any other immunodeficiency. For this instance 204 stool samples were collected from the urban and rural population of Quetta, Balochistan. The participants with positive results for Intestinal Parasitic Infections were interviewed using close-ended questionnaire. From the findings of this study, it has been revealed that prevalence of Intestinal parasitic infections in rural and urban areas was 21%. Males were found more prevalent (66%) as compared to females (34%) due to higher risk of contacting to outer environment. The prevalence was higher in rural areas (23%). The most prevalent intestinal parasite was Entamoeba histolytica (48%). Other prevailing parasites were Hymenolepis nana (26%), Giardia Intestinalis (17%), Trichomonas hominis (5%) and Trichuris trichiura (5%). The majority of patients were having lower socio-economic (52%) and educational status (48%). Educational status of 48% patients was primary or below primary. Most of the participants with positive results did not have hand washing habit (62%) and didn't have the closed sanitary system (71%). The intestinal parasitic infections were more prevalent among children aged from 1-10 (33%). This may be a result of poor hygiene in children. The study will contribute to lower down the prevalence in the studied areas by the application of different preventive measures in future.

Enteric Bacterial Infections, Antimicrobial Susceptibility Pattern, Intestinal Parasites, and Associated Factors Among Food Handlers in Yabelo Town, Borena Zone, Southern Ethiopia.

Foodborne illnesses are the main cause of morbidity and mortality in the twenty-first century, and food handlers are the main source of these illnesses. The study aimed to assess the prevalence of intestinal parasites, enteric bacteria, antimicrobial susceptibility patterns, and associated factors among food handlers working in a food and drinking establishment in Yabelo town, Borena zone, Southern Ethiopia, in 2022. A facility-based cross-sectional study design was employed to assess the food handler's state of health. Data were gathered using semistructured questionnaires and observational checklists, and 396 regular stool samples were collected. Samples were examined with microscopy and bacteriological culture to isolate enteric bacteria. Statistical Package for the Social Sciences, version 26 The factors that had a P-value of <.05 were considered statistically significant. Of the 396 stool samples collected, 164 (41.4%) were tested positive for intestinal parasites, while 40 (10.1%) were positive for enteric bacteria (Salmonella and Shigella). Among intestinal parasites, the most predominant parasite was Ascaris lumbricoides 48 (12.1%). All isolates of Salmonella and Shigella showed resistance to ampicillin. In multivariable analysis, not trimming fingernails regularly (AOR = 2.02, 95% CI 1.97-5.37), not washing hands with soap after the toilet (AOR = 3.02, 95% CI 2.37-5.62), and eating raw food (AOR = 2.1, 95% CI 1.79-6.51) have a significant association with the prevalence of bacteria and parasites. The majority of food handlers had poor hygiene practices, and the prevalence of parasites and bacteria was high in the study setting. Educational status, eating raw vegetables or fruit, hand washing after the toilet, and fingernail trimming have associations with the health status of food handlers.

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 Protozoans among HIV Patients in a Rural Setting, Southern Nigeria

Opportunistic parasitic protozoan infections in HIV infected patients remain a worldwide public health concern. A cross sectional study on HIV patients was carried out in some parts of  Imo State with a view of assessing the prevalence of  intestinal protozoan parasites. Stool samples were collected and analysed applying standard techniques. Overall, four species of protozoan parasites were isolated namely, C.parvum, E.histolytica, G.lamblia   and Ent. coli.  Total prevalence is highest (52.2%) amongst the age group of ≤27 years, followed by 45-48years(27.8%) while the least prevalence(11.8%) is recorded for the age group of 49 years and above. More female (26.3%) were infected than male (25.4%). Significant association between age and protozoan prevalencewas noted(p-value=0.007; X2=32.998a, df=16). Further analysis selecting Cramer’s V which is the measure of association based on chi-square shows a weak dependence between age and parasite prevalence (Cramer’s V-value = 0.286). Pearson correlation shows a positive, weak (R=0.170; sig.=0.089c) relationship between age and protozoan parasite prevalence. Test of association between gender and intestinal protozoan parasites shows a non-significant association(p=0.280;X2=5.069a), weak dependence(Cramer’s V-value = 0.280) and a negative, weak relationship between gender and parasite prevalence(R=-0.042; sig=0.674c). Subjects with CD4count &lt;200µ/ml recorded the highest(40.0%) prevalence of intestinal protozoan parasite while 200-349µ/ml recorded the least prevalence(4.0%).Significant association exists between CD4 count and parasite prevalence(x2=53.9a, df=12,p=0.001);then Cramer’s v test shows a medium-strong dependence. High prevalence (37.0%) of intestinal protozoan parasites is recorded for subjects not on HAART while low prevalence (12.8%) is recorded for those on HAART; with Significant association (x2=16.157a, df=4, p=0.003) and medium-strong dependence (Cramer’s v =0.40).The result of this study shows that intestinal parasites are of public health concern among immunocompromised individuals and calls for urgent attention of relevant stakeholders

Spread of Intestinal Parasites in Patients Presenting with Gastrointestinal Complaints.

The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence of intestinal parasites in patients admitted to University of Health Sciences Türkiye (UHS) Van Training and Research Hospital. A total of 300 patients between the ages of 18-90 who applied to UHS Van Training and Research Hospital with gastrointestinal complaints and were referred to the parasitology laboratory between September 2021 and December 2021, and 100 patients without any chronic disease and gastrointestinal complaints in the control group were included in the study. Stool samples taken from patients included in the study and individuals in the control group were analyzed by native-lugol and modified acid-fast staining methods. In the study, intestinal parasites were detected in 41 (13.3%) of 300 patients in the patient group and in seven (7%) of 100 individuals in the control group. The highest rate of Blastocystis species (Blastocystis spp.) (5.7%) was found in the patient group. Entamoeba coli 3%, G. intestinalis 2.7% and Cryptosporidium species (Cryptosporidium spp). 2.3% were found among the other species detected. In addition, a statistically significant correlation was found between the incidence of parasites and abdominal pain (p=0.022) and nausea (p=0.029). As a result; it was concluded that intestinal parasites are still an important health problem in patients with gastrointestinal complaints and intestinal parasites should definitely be considered in this patient group.

Prevalence of intestinal parasites in children and domestic animals from two peri-urban neighborhoods in northeastern Argentina.

Motivation for the study. There are few reports on intestinal parasites in children and domestic animals in urban areas in Argentina who live in homes with characteristics that favor the maintenance and transmission of parasites of zoonotic importance. Main findings. More than 50% of children and pets were parasitized, most of them with zoonotic pathogens. Implications. Our results showed the urgent need to improve sanitary control of children and animals, and to implement activities for the prevention of intestinal parasitosis in the homes analyzed.

Prevalence of intestinal parasites in leafy green vegetables consumed by inhabitants of Jeddah city, Saudi Arabia

Vegetables are a crucial component of every diet and a good source of vitamins and minerals. Many raw vegetables, such as salads, are consumed, and consuming raw vegetables contaminated with human and animal feces can lead to a variety of intestinal parasite diseases. The goal of this cross-sectional study was to investigate the incidence of contamination of green leafy vegetables with human intestinal parasites, as well as identify the most common parasite species and any seasonal variation in parasite abundance in green leafy vegetables found and sold for human consumption in various markets and stores in Jeddah. To the best of our knowledge, no research has been conducted on the prevalence of parasite-contaminated vegetables in Jeddah. From September 2020 to July 2021, 250 leafy vegetables (coriander, watercress, lettuce, parsley, leek, and green onion) were collected from various markets and stores in Jeddah. The vegetables were sorted, labelled, and evaluated in the laboratory after being completely washed with distilled water, examined for sediment, staining, and microscopically examined. Chromatographic immunoassay tests were also used to confirm parasite identification. Intestinal parasites were discovered in 35.2% of the vegetables (88/250). Coriander was the most contaminated (64.2%), while green onion was the least contaminated (21.9%). Blastocystis spp. was the most often discovered parasite (55.7%), followed by Strongyloides spp. larva (22.7%) and Entamoeba coli cysts (6.8%). Summer has the greatest percentage of parasites, followed by autumn, while winter has the fewest. There was no statistically significant relationship between the kind of vegetable, seasonal parasite prevalence in green vegetables, and parasite type.These findings highlight the importance of inspecting vegetables grown or imported from endemic countries for parasite contamination. In Jeddah, several fresh green vegetables were tainted with intestinal parasites. This demonstrates that those who consume raw vegetables regularly may be susceptible to parasitic illnesses. These findings highlight the need of monitoring vegetables grown or imported from parasitic-endemic areas. As a result, it is critical to establish strategies and control measures to limit the likelihood of parasites in food-borne diseases.&#x0D; Keywords: contamination; intestinal parasites; Jeddah; leafy vegetables