Prevalence Of Intestinal Parasites Research Articles

Intestinal Parasites And Associated Risk Factors among Primary School Children in Duhok City-kurdistan Region/iraq

Background: The present study was carried out during the period from October 2021 until March 2022, to detect the presence of parasites in stool samples of primary school children. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A total of 1172 diarrheic stool specimens were randomly collected from primary school children of both sexes and different ages (6-12 years) visited Azadi Teaching Hospital, Heevi Pediatric Hospital, and Kurdistan private (Maternity and Pediatric) Hospital in Duhok city. RESULTS: In the current study, 40.96% (480/1172) of the examined specimens were positive for parasitic stages, they included 56.67% (272) males and 43.33% (208) females. High prevalence (40%) of intestinal parasites was reported among the age group 6-7 years. The recorded intestinal parasitic species included: Entamoeba histolytica which was the most dominant intestinal protozoa with infection rate of 21.67% (254/1172), followed by Enterobius vermicularis 13.48% (158/1172), then Giardia lamblia of about 5.46% (64/1172) , while Blastocystis hominis was reported only in four children at a rate of 0.34% (1172). As regards to some sociodemographic factors, significant correlations (P <0.05) were observed between the rates of infection with intestinal parasites and residency, dirty fingers and family size. While regarding other factors such as, literacy, hand washing and having pets the correlations were non-significant (P >0.05)

Gastrointestinal Helminths in Horses in Serbia and Various Factors Affecting the Prevalence.

Data on gastrointestinal infections in horses in Southeastern Europe are limited; thus, this study aimed to add to the existing knowledge on this topic by reporting on the prevalence of intestinal parasites of horses in the territory of the Republic of Serbia. In the period from April 2017 to December 2018, parasitological examination of 548 samples from horses of different breed, age and sex from four regions and 18 districts of the country was performed. Coprological diagnostic was done by using qualitative methods without concentration and qualitative methods with concentration of parasitic elements. Quantification of the obtained results was performed using semi-qualitative faecal egg count. Four helminthoses were detected in the examined samples: P. equorum (8.57%), O. equi (3.65%), strongylid eggs (71.17%) and Anoplocephala spp. (0.91%). The total prevalence of helminthoses was 77.19%. Monoinfections were significantly more present 70.07% compared to coinfections (7.12%). The highest prevalence of helminthoses was detected in free-ranging horses (93.10%-27/29), in autumn 86.67% (117/135) and winter 79.71% (165/207), in Šumadija and West Serbia region (100%), and in the youngest category (100%). Significant difference (p < 0.001) was detected in the prevalence of monoinfections by strongylids and O. equi and also coinfections by strongylid/P. equorum between horses of different age categories. Obtained results are of great contribution to clinical parasitology and pathology, especially from the aspect of animal health, welfare and preservation of horse population.

Prevalence of Taeniid eggs in the Feces of Stray Dogs Collected from Different Location of Zakho city, Kurdistan Region, Iraq.

Iraq is an endemic country for cystic echinococcosis (CE). This disease is zoonotic infection with a widespread distribution among livestock and humans. The adult parasite inhabits the small intestine of dogs especially stray dogs, their eggs are excreted with the feces to the environment. The objective of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of Taeniid eggs and other intestinal parasites in the feces of stray dogs collected from different location of Zakho city. The study was conducted during the period from March 2020 to March 2021, in which 160 fecal samples of stray dogs were collected from soil surface of 10 different location in Zakho city. The feces were examined by direct wet mount and flotation technique to detect the presence of parasitic eggs and then the data were statistically analyzed. The overall, rate of infection was 46.25% (74/160) of examined fecal samples. The most frequently detected eggs were of Taeniid spp. constituting 23.13% (37/160) of the examined stool samples, with the highest rate (42.86%) being in samples collected from the areas around Zakho abattoir. Furthermore, other parasites recorded in this study, were Oxyurid spp. larvae (8.13%) and eggs of Dipylidium caninum (5%), Stronglodies stercoralis (5%), Toxocara spp. (4.38%) and Hymenolepis nana (0.63%).

Prevalence of Intestinal Parasitic Infection and Associated Factors among Adama Science and Technology University Student Adama Town, Oromia, Ethiopia

Introduction: University students who live together in campuses and share different materials for their day-to-day activities may expose them to intestinal parasitic infections. As far as our knowledge is concerned, there is insufficient information on the magnitude of parasitic infections among students at Adama Science and Technology University Objectives: To determine Prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection and associated factors among Adama University Student Adama Town, Oromia, Ethiopia. Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted among 483 students attending higher health center at Adama University Student by using systematic random sampling technique. Data on socio-demographic characteristics and potential associated factors for Intestinal parasitic infection was collected by structured interviewer administered questionnaire. One-gram stool samples for direct saline microscopy was collected and processed in accordance to the standard parasitological techniques and procedures at Adama Science and Technology University Higher Health Center Laboratory. Data entry and analysis was done using SPSS version 20.0.Chi- square test and multiple logistic regression was used to identify associated factors. Association between variables were considered statistically significant only if a two-sided P-value &lt;0.05 at 95% confidence level. Results: This study demonstrates the overall prevalence of intestinal parasite among student accounts 20.1% (95%CI; 16.8, 23.8). Two protozoa and three helminthes spp were detected from total stool sample examined. The predominate parasite isolated were E.histolotica 63(13.0%) followed by G.lamblia 27(5.6%), Taenia spp 3(0.6%), Hookworm 2(0.4%) and H.nana 2(0.4%) respectively. being rural residence[AOR]: 2.69, 95% CI: (1.22,5.9)], lower parental educational status(illiterate [AOR]: 5.5, 95% CI: (1.99,15.5)] and primary[AOR]: 3.75, 95% CI: (1.5,9.34)], food source from private cafeterias[AOR]: 2.46, 95% CI: (1.15,5.2)], not hand washing before food and after defecation[AOR]: 4.9, 95% CI: (1.96,12.3)], Habit of eating raw vegetables and fruit[AOR]: 4.8, 95% CI:(2.28,10.1)], walking with bare foot[AOR]: 13.2, 95% CI: (5.4,32.4)], not trimming finger nail [AOR]: 6.85, 95% CI: (3.2,14.6)] and not using soap [AOR]: 7.53, 95% CI: (3.2,17.8)]were significantly associated with parasitic infection. Conclusions and Recommendations: The present study demonstrated the frequencies of intestinal parasitic infections among students were found to be high. Residence, educational status of parents, hand washing before meal and after defection, eating raw vegetables and fruit, walking with bare foot was significant predictors of parasitic infection: Hence all students should wash their hand before meal and after defecation, consume cooked vegetables, avoid walking with barefoot and trim their fingernail and university should improve and sustain inspection and food handler screening of private cafeterias.

Prevalence of Intestinal Parasites in Dog Faecal Samples from Public Environments in Qinghai Province, China

Dogs are popular companions in our daily lives for company, hunting, protection or shepherding, but they also serve as reservoirs for zoonotic parasites. We analysed faecal samples from urban and rural environments in Qinghai Province on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau of China to determine the prevalence of intestinal parasites. A total of 682 faecal samples were collected from four urban and two rural environments from October 2019 to December 2020. The samples were analysed for common intestinal parasites using a species-specific PCR approach. The total number of samples with parasites was 40 (5.87%): 23 (3.37%) were positive for helminths, and 17 (2.49%) were positive for protozoa. The following parasites were identified, and their respective prevalence rates were calculated: Cryptosporidium canis (1.32%), Giardia duodenalis (1.17%, assemblages D (n = 6) and C (n = 2)), Taenia hydatigena (1.03%), Taenia multiceps (0.59%), Toxocara canis (0.59%), Echinococcus shiquicus (0.29%), Dipylidium caninum (0.29%), Taenia pisiformis (0.15%), Mesocestoides lineatus (0.15%), Trichuris vulpis (0.15%), and Ancylostoma spp. (0.15%). The overall prevalence was significantly higher in dog faecal samples from rural environments than in those from urban environments (16.19% vs. 3.99%). E. shiquicus, T. pisiformis, M. lineatus, T. vulpis, and Ancylostoma spp. were only found in dog faecal samples from rural environments. The results of the present study indicate that intestinal parasite-positive dogs are important sources of environmental contamination, suggesting a significant zoonotic infection risk in humans and other animals. This has implications for the ongoing control of intestinal parasite infections in dogs in Qinghai Province, China.

Do Intestinal Unicellular Parasites Have a Role in the Inflammatory and Redox Status among the Severely Obese?

The diagnosis of obesity comprises subjects with totally different phenotypes and metabolic profiles. Systemic inflammation and oxidative stress derived from the white adipose tissue are suggested as the link between this disease and the development of insulin resistance and metabolic comorbidities. The presence of unicellular eukaryotic parasites colonizing the human gut ecosystem is a common circumstance, and yet their influence on the inflammatory and redox status of the obese host has not been assessed. Herein, a set of inflammatory and redox biomarkers were assessed together with a parasitological analysis of 97 severely obese subjects. Information was also collected on insulin resistance and on the antioxidant composition of the diet. The global prevalence of intestinal unicellular parasites was 49.5%, with Blastocystis sp. the most prevalent protozoan found (42.3%). Colonized subjects displayed a higher total antioxidant capacity and a trend towards higher extracellular superoxide dismutase activity, regardless of their insulin resistance status, along with lower reduced glutathione/oxidized glutathione (GSH/GSSG) ratios in plasma in the insulin-resistant subgroup. No changes in malondialdehyde levels, or in inflammatory cytokines in plasma, were found in regard to the colonization status. In conclusion, enteric eukaryotic unicellular parasites may play an important role in modulating the antioxidant defenses of an obese host, thus could have beneficial effects with respect to the development of systemic metabolic disorders.

Prevalence Of Malaria And Intestinal Parasitic Co-Infection Among Diabetic Patients In Calabar.

Background: Malaria and intestinal parasitosis is a public health problem among diabetic patients, therefore, this work evaluates the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection and malaria co-infections in diabetics.&#x0D; Materials and Methods&#x0D; Capillary blood and fecal samples were collected from 190 diabetic patients at the outpatient clinic of University of Calabar Teaching Hospital and Navy Reference Hospital Calabar and another batch of capillary blood and fecal samples from 110 non-diabetic subjects. The stool samples were examined macroscopically and microscopically by direct smear and formol- ether concentration method and also stained by modified Ziehl- Neelsen acid fast stain. The thick and thin blood film were stained with 10% Giemsa stain and viewed microscopically.&#x0D; Result: Amongst the test subjects, malaria parasites had a prevalence rate of 30 (15.8%), intestinal parasites had a prevalence rate of 48 (25.3%), and prevalence of co-infection with malaria parasites and intestinal parasites were 8 (4.2%), the difference was statistically significant (p= 0.036). Amongst the non-diabetic subjects, prevalence of malaria parasites was 12 (10.9%), intestinal parasites had a prevalent rate of 12 (10.9%) and a co-infection prevalence rate of 12 (3.6%). Amongst the diabetic patients, subjects aged 21-30 years had the highest infection rate of 14 (70.0%) for malaria parasites while 31-40 years had the highest infection of 8 (57.1%) for intestinal parasites the difference was statistically significant p = 0.0001. Amongst the non-diabetic subjects, age group 31-40 had the highest prevalence rate for malaria parasites 4(28.6%) and intestinal parasites 6(42.9%), while age group 31-40 and 41-50 had the highest prevalent rates of 2(14.3%) for co-infection. Amongst the diabetic patients, male subjects had a higher prevalence rates for malaria parasites, intestinal parasites and co-infection of 20(33.3%), 26(43.3%) and 6(10.0%) respectively which was statistically significant (p= 0.001). For the non-diabetic subjects, females had a higher prevalence rate for malaria infection 8(13.3%), while males had a higher prevalence rate for intestinal parasites and co-infection of 8(16.0%) and 4(8.0%) respectively, the difference was not statistically significant (p=0.250). Hookworm was the most observed parasite, 18(37.5%), Ascaris lumbricoides, 14 (29.2%), Cryptosporidium parvum, 8 (16.7%), Cyclospora cayetanensis, 4 (8.3%), Trichuris trichiura, 2 (4.2%) and Microsporidia, 2 (4.2%).&#x0D; Conclusion: Based on findings in this study, this work has shown a prevalence of intestinal parasites (25.3%), and prevalence of malaria infection (15.8%) in diabetic subjects; and this study also illustrate the prevalence of malaria and intestinal parasitic co- infection of 4.2%, and the need to put in place strategies for the control of the parasite among this group of patients.

Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors of Intestinal Parasites and Enteric Bacterial Infections among Selected Region Food Handlers of Ethiopia during 2014-2022: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Food-borne disease due to intestinal parasites (IPs) and enteric bacterial infections (EBIs) remain a major public health problem. Food handlers, individuals involved in preparing and serving food, working with poor personal hygiene could pose a potential threat of spreading IPs and EBIs to the public. The aim of this study was to examine the overall prevalence and risk factors of IPs and EBIs among food handlers in four selected regions of Ethiopia. Scientific articles written in English were recovered from PubMed, ScienceDirect, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Cochrane Library, and other sources from Google Engine and University Library Databases. “Prevalence,” “Intestinal Parasites,” “Enteric Bacterial Infections,” “Associated Factors,” “Food Handlers,” and “Ethiopia” were the search terms used for this study. For critical appraisal, PRISMA 2009 was applied. Stata software version 16 was used to perform the meta-analysis. Heterogeneity and publication bias were evaluated using Cochran's Q, inverse variance (I2), and funnel plot asymmetry tests. A random-effects model was used to calculate the pooled burden of IPs and EBIs and its associated factors among food handlers, along with the parallel odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). For this meta-analysis, a total of 5844 food handlers were included in the 20 eligible studies. The overall pooled prevalence of IPs and EBIs among food handlers in four selected regions of Ethiopia was 29.16% (95% CI: 22.61, 35.71), with covering (25.77%) and (3.39%) by IPs and EBIs, respectively. Ascaris lumbricoides, Entamoeba histolytica/dispar, Giardia lamblia, and hookworm were the most prevalent IPs among food handlers with a pooled prevalence of 7.58%, 6.78%, 3.67%, and 2.70%, respectively. Salmonella and Shigella spp. were the most prevalent EBIs among food handlers with a pooled prevalence of 2.78% and 0.61%, respectively. A high prevalence of IPs and EBIs among food handlers was observed in Oromia (38.56%; 95% CI: 29.98, 47.14), while a low prevalence was observed in the Tigray region (19.45%; 95% CI: 6.08, 32.82). Food handlers who had not taken food hygiene training (OR: 0.68, 95% CI: −0.34, 1.69), untrimmed finger nail (OR: 2.23, 95% CI: 1.47, 2.99), lack of periodic medical checkup (OR: 1.52, 95% CI: 0.41, 2.64), lack of handwashing habits (OR: 1.97, 95% CI: 0.53, 3.41), and eating raw vegetables and meat (OR: 2.63, 95% CI: 0.92, 4.34) were factors significantly associated with the prevalence of IPs and EBIs. The prevalence of IPs and EBIs was high in the selected Ethiopian region (Amhara, Oromia, SNNPR, and Tigray) food handlers along an increasing prevalence trend from 2014 to 2022. Therefore, this study recommends the provision of proper health education and training regarding personal hygiene, hand washing, food handling, medical checks, as well as raw vegetable and meat safety.

Prevalence and associated risk factors of human intestinal parasitic infections in rural areas

Introduction: Determination of the prevalence and distribution pattern of intestinal parasites is a fundamental step to set up an effective control program to improve the health status. This study aimed to prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections and associated risk factors among inhabitants. Methodology:- Population of this study were 1150.Among all 430 participant were found infected with parasitic infection. This study was conducted in Department of Microbiology Bhagwan Mahavir institute of medical sciences, Nalanda. The duration of study was over a period of two years. Result:- This result of this study revealed that 1150 total cases were included. Out of all we have found 430 infected cases with parasite. Conclusion:-The conclusion of this study high prevalence of intestinal protozoan infections was observed among the inhabitants of the study area as compared to helminthes.&#x0D;

Prevalence of intestinal parasites and associated risk factors in HIV positive and negative patients in Northwest Region, Cameroon

Epidemiological understanding of intestinal parasitic infections is essential for the effective management of HIV infection. Therefore, this study was designed to assess the burden of intestinal parasites and associated risk factors. A cross-sectional study was conducted from May to December 2020 during which 200 HIV positive and 200 HIV negative participants were recruited. A total of 400 stool and venous blood samples were collected and used to identify the different intestinal parasites and for HIV diagnosis and viral load determination respectively. Results obtained revealed that the overall prevalence of intestinal parasites was 11% (44/400). Intestinal parasitosis was significantly (p = 0.025) higher in HIV-positive individuals 14.5% (29/200). Similarly, the prevalence of multiple parasitic infection 4.5% (18/400) and opportunistic helminths 3% (6/400) were insignificantly (p > 0.05) higher among HIV-positive individuals. Furthermore, prevalence of intestinal parasites was significantly (p = 0.004) greater in patients with viral load of > 1000 copies/mL 24.3% (13/46). Age group > 65 years, self-employment, living in Sub-urban areas, being HIV positive, primary level of education, use of potable tap water, and the use of water system toilets for faeces disposal were identified as associated risk factors to intestinal parasites. Intestinal parasites remain public health concern among patients with HIV. Prompt and effective antiretroviral treatment is required to reduce the intensity of the parasite.

PREVALENCE AND EFFECT OF ASCARIS LUMBRICOIDES, ENTEROBIUS VERMICULARIS AND HYMENOLEPIS NANA ON THE ACCOMPANYING BLOOD PICTURE IN IBEN KOLDOON HOSPITAL, LAHAJ- YEMEN

Intestinal parasitic infections, are the most common infections worldwide. Various epidemiological studies in Yemen and the neighboring countries, indicate that the prevalence of intestinal parasites is high, especially in developing countries.This study was aims to investigate the prevalence of infection with Intestinal Parasites Worms (IPW), Ascaris lumbricoides, Enterobius vermicularis and Hymenolepis nana and its impact on the blood picture among patients attending Ibn Khaldoon hospital in Lahaj governorate - Yemen.A cross-sectional study was conducted from October 2019 to October 2020, to assess the prevalence of infection parasites worms (IPW) and associated risk factors. This study included 645 patients from both sexes and different ages. Stool samples were examined microscopically using direct wet-mount, formal-ether concentration techniques and Saturated sodium chloride floatation technique. We analyzed the blood picture of the infected and uninfected people and focused on the three pictures of white blood cells (WBC), hemoglobin (Hb) and eosinophil (E). A structured questionnaire, was used to obtain information regarding the associated risk factors. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20.The results showed that (94.88%) were positive and 33 cases (5.12%) were negative. And among the (94.88%) positive cases, (59,53%) cases were positive with intestinal helminthes (IH). The infection rate for males (47.65%) cases and for females (42.97%) cases, and the statistical analysis showed a significant difference at the level of significance (P&lt;0.05). Also, some hematological parameters of the blood picture taken from the patients showed significant differences compared to the control group, where the level of (Hb) decreased (10.19 g/dL) and a slight increase in the number of (WBC) 6990 cells/mm3 and a rise in (E) cells 671.74). cell/mm3.In conclusion, the necessity of spreading health education among members of the community and showing the danger of infection with IPW in particular and parasites in general. In relation with blood picture examinations showed a statistically significant difference (P=0.00) in the three age groups. Where the values of WBC 8.49 Mean and (E) 11.174 Mean were more elevated in the first age group, while they decreased in the second and third age groups, while the level of Hb was the most low (8.420 Mean). In the first, second and third age groups.

Gaita Örneklerinde Helicobacter pylori Antijen Pozitifliği ile İntestinal Parazit Birlikteliğinin Araştırılması

Aim: Helicobacter pylori and intestinal parasitic infections are commonly seen, especially in areas with low socioeconomic status and poor hygiene conditions. H. pylori and Giardia duodenalis can be commonly found in patients with upper gastrointestinal system complaints. It is thought that the urease activity of H. pylori may help intestinal parasites pass into the intestines without being affected by the acidic environment of the stomach. In this study, it was aimed to investigate the association of H. pylori and intestinal parasites (IP) in patients with gastrointestinal system complaints. Material and Method: A total of 408 patients, who were admitted to our hospital with gastrointestinal complaints between 2018 and 2020 and whose H. pylori rapid antigen test was studied simultaneously with intestinal parasite examination in the stool, were evaluated retrospectively. Results: Out of 408 patients whose stool samples were examined, one or more intestinal parasites were detected in 80 (19.6%), and H. pylori antigen test was positive in 65 (15.9%). While there was no statistically significant difference between H. pylori positivity and age groups, the rate of IP detection was found to be significantly higher in children aged 6-18 years. The most prevalent IP was Blastocystis sp. in 74 (18.1%) patients. Intestinal parasite and H. pylori antigen co-positivity in stool samples was detected in eight patients and it was not found statistically significant. Conclusion: H. pylori and intestinal parasites are common all over the world. The relationship between H. pylori and IP is still controversial, and more studies that are comprehensive are needed to understand the association of H. pylori and IP, especially in patients with upper gastrointestinal system complaints.

Narrower isotopic niche size in fish infected by the intestinal parasite Pomphorhynchus sp. compared to uninfected ones.

Examples of parasite-related effects on intermediate crustacean hosts are numerous but their ecological consequences on their vertebrate hosts are scarce. Here, we address the role of macroparasite infections on the trophic niche structure of definitive hosts and its potential physiological consequences using wild fish populations infected with an acantochephalan parasite Pomphorhynchus sp., a trophically transmitted intestinal worm. Infected and uninfected fish were sampled from six populations on the Marne River, France and the prevalence of intestinal parasites in the host populations ranged from 50% to 90%. Although the isotopic ratios (δ13 C and δ15 N) did not differ between infected and uninfected fish, we found a consistent pattern of isotopic niche size being considerably smaller in infected hosts when compared with noninfected ones. This was not explained by interindividual differences in intrinsic factors such as length/age or body condition between infected and uninfected fish. These results suggest a potential niche specialization of infected fish, which did not impair their energetic status.

Detection of Giardia and helminths in Western Europe at local K9 (canine) sites (DOGWALKS Study)

BackgroundIntestinal parasite contamination from infected dogs can place other dogs and humans at risk. A study was initiated to estimate the prevalence of canine intestinal parasitism by collecting fecal samples in cities across Western Europe.MethodsFresh fecal samples were collected from 2469 dogs visiting 164 parks in 33 cities across 12 countries. Each owner responded to a questionnaire focusing on their dog’s signalment and recent anthelmintic treatment history. The collected samples were examined for hookworms, whipworms, ascarids and Giardia using a coproantigen diagnostic immunoassay and microscopy following centrifugal flotation.ResultsNematodes or Giardia were detected in at least one sample from 100% of cities and in 93.3% of parks. Nematodes were detected in 57% of parks. Overall, 22.8% of dogs tested positive for an intestinal parasite, with Giardia being the most commonly identified parasites (17.3% of dogs, 83.5% of parks). For nematode infection, 7.6% of all dogs tested positive, with 9.9% of dogs aged < 1 year infected, 7.7% of those aged 1–3 years, 7.3% of those aged 4–6 years and 6.6% of those aged ≥ 7 years. Among the nematodes detected, ascarids were the most prevalent (3.6% of dogs, parks, 28.7% of parks), being most common in dogs aged < 1 year but also present in older dogs, including those aged ≥ 7 years. Hookworms and whipworms were detected in 3.2% and 2.3% of dogs of all ages, respectively, and in 37.2% and 17.7% of parks, respectively. A larger proportion of fecal samples tested positive with the coproantigen immunoassay than with centrifugal flotation. Positive test results for Giardia were sevenfold higher when both diagnostic tests were used than when centrifugal flotation alone was used, and there were 60% more positive test results for nematodes when both tests were used than when flotation alone was used. Overall, 77.2% of owners reported previous anthelmintic treatment, among whom at least 62.7% failed to follow recommended treatment frequency. Dogs receiving anthelmintic within the previous month had a lower percentage of nematode infection than those in which > 1 month had passed since the previous dose.ConclusionsThe prevalence estimates of intestinal parasite infections in dogs reported here highlight the need for owner education concerning guidelines for regular testing and treatment, even in older dogs. Failure to adhere to guidelines can result in ongoing transmission of these infections, including those with zoonotic potential. Combining coproantigen immunoassay with centrifugal flotation for diagnostic testing and regular anthelmintic treatment are important measures for ensuring optimal intestinal parasite control.Graphical

Prevalence, risk factors and zoonotic potential of intestinal parasites in dogs from four locations in Morocco.

Dogs can harbor various intestinal parasites that have serious clinical, economic, and zoonotic impact. In Morocco, the epidemiological status of those parasites is largely unknown. This study aimed to obtain data on the prevalence of intestinal parasites in various Moroccan dog populations, to identify associated risk factors, to evaluate people's knowledge regarding zoonotic parasites and to estimate the risk of human infection. A total of 291 fecal samples were analyzed using a 33% Zinc Sulphate (ZnSO4) centrifugal flotation and a sheather's sugar simple flotation techniques. In addition, 100 dog owners were asked to fill out a questionnaire about their knowledge regarding canine zoonotic intestinal parasites. Overall, 58% of sampled dogs were positive for at least one parasite species. Ancylostoma/Uncinaria spp. (31.9%), Toxascaris leonina (27.4%), Toxocara canis (27.1%), Cystoisospora spp. (13.4%) and Giardia spp. (7.2%) were the most frequently isolated parasites. The overall prevalence was associated with the dogs' activity, and feces consistency. More specifically, the prevalence of Ancylostoma/Uncinaria spp., Toxascaris leonina and Cystoisospora spp. was associated with dogs' activity and feces consistency and, additionally with age for Cystoisosporaspp.Toxocara canis prevalence was associated with age and feces consistency, while Giardia spp. prevalence was associated with dogs' activity. A weak awareness among dog owners regarding the zoonotic potential of canine intestinal parasites was noticed (33%) especially when their knowledge was compared to another endemic zoonotic disease, i.e. rabies (85%). Furthermore, the rate of respecting the vaccination protocol (82%) was significantly higher than the rate of respecting the deworming protocol (47%). We conclude that intestinal parasites, including the zoonotic ones, were highly prevalent in the dogs sampled in this study whereas people's knowledge about those parasites was very limited. These findings suggest that the risk of human infection is very likely, which highlights the need for effective control programs and health education.

Health and Vaccination Status of Unaccompanied Minors After Arrival in a European Border Country: A Cross-sectional Study (2017-2020).

Unaccompanied and separated children (UASC) are a high-risk group for infectious diseases and information on their vaccination status is scarce. Different approaches are used to screen newly arrived minors in Europe. The aim of this study was to describe the health status and serological protection against different vaccine-preventable diseases among UASC to inform public health decision-making. Retrospective study of all UASC seen at an international health reference center in Barcelona (Spain) between January 2017 and February 2020. Screening results were analyzed using binary logistic regression with adjustment for symptoms, geographic origin, and time since arrival. We studied 289 UASC (88.9% males; median age, 17 years). At least one infection was diagnosed in 136 minors (47.1%). There was a high prevalence of intestinal parasites (22.8%), latent tuberculosis infection (22.5%), and hepatitis B (5.2%), even in asymptomatic individuals, and especially among UASC from sub-Saharan Africa (odds ratio, 2.5; 95% confidence interval, 1.5-4.0, P &lt; 0.001). We did not observe a significant association between clinical symptoms and the presence of infection or differences in the prevalence of different infections according to number of months since arrival. Protection against hepatitis B virus (36%), measles (80%), and varicella (83%) was suboptimal. Our results highlight the importance of screening and vaccination programs for UASC arriving in Europe, especially border countries. Protocols should be adjusted according to geographic origin. Absence of symptoms does not necessarily rule out infection, highlighting the importance of screening in asymptomatic minors. These programs are a public health priority and should not be neglected during the current COVID-19 pandemic.

Canine nematode and Giardia spp. infections in dogs in Edmonton, Alberta, the “CANIDA” study

BackgroundCanine intestinal parasite prevalence may be influenced by geographical region, age, and health status of the dog. Behaviors such as predation, scavenging, or roaming as well as routine administration of anthelmintics also play a role. The purpose of this study was to evaluate fecal test results using zinc sulfate flotation by centrifugation combined with coproantigen testing directed at protein antigens excreted or secreted by hookworms (Ancylostoma spp. Uncinaria stenocephala), ascarids (Toxocara canis, Toxascaris spp. Baylisascaris spp.), whipworms (Trichuris vulpis), and Giardia spp. during active infection in owned dogs visiting dog parks in Western Canada.MethodsA total of 774 participants were recruited from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Canine fecal samples were collected from seven dedicated off-leash dog parks. Participating dog owners responded to a questionnaire regarding their dogs’ signalment, previous veterinary history, and use of parasite-preventive products. Fecal samples were tested using zinc sulfate centrifugation combined with coproantigen testing.ResultsThe overall prevalence of canine intestinal parasites in client-owned dogs was similar to previous studies conducted in the US. Mean age of dogs tested was 4 years, with puppies and older dogs having higher rates of infection than the mean. Fecal flotation centrifugation found 3.2% hookworm, ascarid, whipworm, and Giardia spp.-positive infections. Coproantigen testing identified 5.8% positive infections, including all of the above that were detected using fecal flotation centrifugation.ConclusionsCoproantigen testing detected more hookworm, ascarid, whipworm, and Giardia spp.-positive samples in addition to detecting all positive results found using fecal flotation centrifugation. Fecal flotation centrifugation combined with coproantigen testing improves sensitivity over flotation alone and may detect pre-patent or sub-clinical infections in dogs visiting public dog parks.Graphical

Prevalence of Intestinal Parasites in HIV/AIDS-Infected Patients Attending Clinics in Selected Areas of the Eastern Cape

Introduction: Intestinal parasites in HIV and AIDS patients increase the risk of gastroenteritis, adding to the complexity of the virus. According to the literature, their interactions are one of the factors leading to HIV replication and progression of AIDS in Africa. Chronic immunosuppression caused by HIV infection makes people vulnerable to parasitic infections, and this is associated with a CD4+ cell count of less than 100. The study describes the prevalence of intestinal parasites in patients attending HIV/AIDS clinics in certain areas of the Eastern Cape. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 600 patients from HIV/AIDS clinics in the Eastern Cape. Tambo Municipality and Amatole Municipality were the municipalities covered. These included the Ngangalizwe Community Clinic, Tsolo Gateway Clinic, Idutywa Health Centre, and Nqamakwe Health Centre. The stools of 600 participants were examined using direct wet saline/iodine embedding, formal ether concentration technique, and modified Ziehl–Neelsen methods. Results: The mean age of the study participants was 28.2 years. They were predominantly female (79.9%), mostly single (63.6%), and lived in rural (65.2%) and urban areas (34.8%). The prevalence of intestinal parasites was determined to be 30% (180/600) after screening 600 stool samples. The most frequently detected parasites were Ascaris lumbricoides (55.9%), Balantidium coli (15.1%), Entamoeba coli (11.3%), Diphyllobothrium latum (4.3%), Taenia species (3.8%), Schistosoma mansoni (1.6%), and Cryptosporidium spp. (1.6%). Males were affected more frequently (39.2%) than females (27.9%). The difference was statistically significant (p = 0.017). Among the identified intestinal parasites, A. lumbricoides, B. coli, and Taenia spp. were found at all four sites. Conclusion: This study has shed light on the high burden of intestinal parasites in HIV/AIDS patients in the Eastern Cape. Medication adherence, deworming, and sanitary hygiene practices are needed to enhance the control of infection in the affected communities and hence contribute to the control of the HIV pandemic.

Length-Weight Relationship and the Distribution of Intestinal Helminth Parasites in Freshwater Fishes from Amansea and Ebenebe Rivers in Anambra State, Nigeria

Aims: The current study was carried out to evaluate the prevalence and distribution of intestinal helminths in freshwater fishes. &#x0D; Study Design: The study was a survey done to establish the type of intestinal parasite found in freshwater fish in the rivers.&#x0D; Place and Duration of Study: The fish samples were collected from Amansea and Ebenebe Rivers from November 2021 to January 2022.&#x0D; Methodology: Intestinal parasites of three (3) fish species commonly found in these rivers (Parachanna obscura, Clarias gariepinus, and Ctenopoma kingsleyae) were examined. A comparative evaluation of the prevalence and distribution of the parasite was done in relation to their gender, location, weight, and length.&#x0D; Results: A total of 24 fish samples were collected in the Amansea River and 26 samples were collected in Ebenebe River. Seventeen (17) samples of P. obscura, 21 samples of C. gariepinus and 12 samples of C. kingsleyae caught with the cast nets of various mesh sizes and gill traps by artisanal fishermen in Rivers were bought early in the morning, transported to the Laboratory and identified based on morphological features. Out of a total of 50 fish sampled, 17 fishes (34% of the total sample) were infected by intestinal helminths. P. obscura had the highest parasite prevalence (47.06%) followed by C. gariepinus (42.86%). However, no parasite was recorded in C. kingsleyae. Prevalence of intestinal parasites in Ebenebe (18.00%) was higher than in Amansea (16.00) with a significant difference in prevalence (p&lt;0.05), while parasite abundance was higher in Amansea (50.94%) than in Ebenebe (49.06%) with significant difference (p&lt;0.05). Females had the highest prevalence (35.00%) against male fishes (33.33%) with no significant difference. A total number of 53 parasites belonging to 7 genera were recovered in this study. Parasites identified were nematodes: Procamallanus sp. (41.5%), Camallanus sp. (9.43%), Rhabdochona sp. (26.42%), Contracaecum sp. (7.55%), and Spinitectus sp. (5.66%); cestodes: Polyonchobothrium sp. (5.66%); and trematodes: Clinostomum sp (3.77%). The highest parasite abundance was recorded in Procamallanus sp. (41.5%), while Clinostomum sp had the least (3.77%).&#x0D; Conclusion: This study revealed that the prevalence of intestinal parasites in freshwater fish is relatively high. Therefore, fish consumers should subject the fish to proper processing before consumption as some of these parasites are of zoonotic importance.

Soil-transmitted helminthes and Schistosoma mansoni infections among primary school children at Ambasame primary school, North-West Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundSchistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminthiasis (STHs) are the major public health problem in the world especially in school age children. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the burden of soil transmitted helminths and Schistosoma mansoni among Ambesame primary school children, North-West Ethiopia.MethodA cross sectional study was carried out at Ambasame primary school children from March to May, 2019. Study participants were selected using systematic random sampling technique. Socio-demographic characteristics and other factors were collected using structured questionnaire. Moreover, stool samples were examined microscopically using wet mount and formol ether concentration techniques. Data were entered and analyzed using SPSS version 20. Logistic regression analysis was done to investigate the association between dependent and independent variables. P-value less than 0.05 was considered as statistically significant.ResultThe overall prevalence of intestinal parasites was 117(31.2%). The prevalence of soil-transmitted helminthes and S.mansoni was 110 (29.3%) using formol ether concentration technique. The most predominant parasite was S. mansoni (10.7%), followed by hookworm (5.6%). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that, helminthic infection was associated with children less than 7 years of age (P-value = 0.019, AOR = 3.29, 95% CI (1.21–8.91)); fathers who are able to read and write (P-value< 0.001, AOR = 5.4, 95% CI (2.37–12.33)); absence of latrine (P-value = 0.016, AOR = 12.96, 95% CI (1.60–104.87)) and untrimmed nail (P-value = 0.043, AOR = 2.09, 95% CI (1.02–4.27)).ConclusionThis study revealed that the prevalence of intestinal helminthes among Ambasame primary school children was relatively high. The lower educational status of father, absence of latrine and untrimmed finger nail showed statistically significant association with intestinal helminthic infection. This indicates the school community, health offices and other stakeholders should plan a strategy to tackle problems associated with sanitary condition. Furthermore, Health policy makers, healthcare workers and health extension workers should enhance their effort of awareness creation for school children, parents, school community about personal hygiene, environmental sanitation, intestinal parasites transmission, prevention and control. Moreover, mass deworming of school children and periodic screening for parasitic infection should be done.