Prevalence Of Intestinal Parasitic Infections Research Articles

The high prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections is associated with stunting among children aged 6\u201359\u2009months in Boricha Woreda, Southern Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundPrior studies reported controversial results about the association between intestinal parasitic infections and childhood under-nutrition. We investigated the association of intestinal parasitic infections with under-nutrition among children aged 6–59 months in Boricha Woreda, Southern Ethiopia.MethodsThis community-based prospective cross-sectional study was carried out from January 1–30, 2019 among 622 children aged 6–59 months. A two-stage stratified sampling procedure was used. Data were collected using a structured, face-to-face interviewer-administered questionnaire and standard anthropometric measurements. The stool specimens were collected using standard technique and examined for the existence and species of intestinal parasites using direct wet mount, Kato Katz and staining technique. We have entered data using Epi Data 3.1 and WHO Anthro software and all analyses were conducted using SPSS version 20. The descriptive analyses were done to find descriptive measures for the socio-demographic and other important variables. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with under-nutrition. Adjusted odds ratios (AORs) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) were computed to assess the presence and strength of associations.ResultsThe total prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection was 48.7% (95% CI, 44.77–52.62). Approximately one-fourth (22%) of the children were infected with moderate intensity infections. Prevalence of stunting, underweight, wasting were 39.3, 24 and 11.6%, respectively. The prevalence of stunting among children infected with the intestinal parasite (59.4%) was significantly higher than the prevalence in non-infected children (20.6%) (p < 0.001). The absence of sanitation facility, living in medium and large family size, lack of shoes wearing practice, consuming raw vegetables and fruits were positively associated with intestinal parasitic infections. The presence of intestinal parasitic infections was positively associated with stunting (AOR = 2.18, 95% CI: 1.36–3.50) but not with wasting (AOR = 0.58, 95% CI: 0.3–1.13) and underweight (AOR: 0.92, 95% CI = 0.55–1.54).ConclusionsUnder-nutrition and intestinal parasitic infections were serious public health concerns. Consolidating the prevailing water, sanitation and hygiene packages and routine deworming of children aged 6–59 months may aid to decrease the burden of both stunting and intestinal parasitic infection in children. Also, improving modern contraceptive methods utilization to reduce family size is recommended.

The Prevalence of Intestinal Parasitic Infections Among Kosovar and Serbian School-children in Kosovo.

SummaryThe aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence and distribution of species of intestinal parasites in the Balkans on the example of Kosovar and Serbian residents from the region of Gnjilane ineastern Kosovo,where the epidemiology of intestinal parasitic infections remains unknown. Parasitological examination of stools pecimens was performed in 2017 and 2018. Stool samples were collected from asymptomatic school-children aged 6–17 years: 530 Kosovars from the municipality of Kaçanik and310 Serbs from the municipalities of Kamenica and Strpce. Each patient provided two stool samples collected every second day,fixed in SAF preservative and 70 % spiritus vini, transported to the Department of Epidemiology and Tropical Medicine at the Military Institute of Medicine in Poland,and tested by light microscopy using three diagnostic methods: directs mearin Lugol’s solution,decantation in distilled water, and Fülleborn’s flotation. A total of 101 Kosovar children (19.1 % of the study group)were found to be infected with intestinal parasites: nematodes (n=20), cestodes (n=2), trematodes (n=2), and protozoa (n=79). Only 13 Serbian children (4.2 %) were found to beinfected with nematodes (n=4),cestodes (n=3),and protozoa (n=6). Giardia intestinalis was themost prevalent intestinal parasite in both groups (14,9 % vs. 1.9 % children). The prevalence ofasymptomatic parasitic infections was significantly higher in Kosovars in comparison to the Serbsliving in the same region of eastern Kosovo. This fact shows that there may be significant differencesin the quality of health care and sanitation as well as feed hygiene between these two communities.

Prevalence and associated risk factors of intestinal parasitic infections among food handlers in Kano Metropolis, Kano State, Nigeria

Background: Intestinal parasitic infections are among the most common infections worldwide and are still the cause of major human morbidity and mortality. World Health Organization (WHO) estimated about 3.5 billion people are affected with intestinal parasitic infections and yearly more than 200,000 deaths are reported. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections among commercial food handlers in Kano metropolis. Methods: Stool samples were collected from 126 food handlers. The samples were examined by direct wet mount and formol-ether concentration technique. Results: The overall prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections was 14.3%. Entamoeba histolytica was found to be the most prevalent among the parasites detected with prevalence of 5.6%. This was followed by Hookworm (4.0%), Ascaris lumbricoides (2.4%), Trichuris trichiura (1.6%) and Entamoeba coli (0.8%) respectively. No statistically significant association existed between awareness of parasite transmission, source of water and intestinal parasitic infections (P > 0.05). A statistically significant association was found between hand washing, walking barefooted and intestinal parasitic infections (P > 0.05). A statistically significant association was found between hand washing, walking barefooted and intestinal parasitic infections (P <0.001). Conclusion: This study revealed a relatively high prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections among food handlers with Entamoeba histolytica being the most prevalent. Appropriate health education concerning personal hygiene should be given to food handlers so as to prevent intestinal parasitic infections.

Prevalence of Enteroparasites Among Non-Saudis in Bahrah, Saudi Arabia.

BackgroundEnteroparasitic infections in tropical and subtropical regions of the world are among the most common diseases. The majority of the cases may show no symptoms; however, many untreated cases may experience severe complications. The recent substantial economic development in Saudi Arabia has resulted in an inflow of millions of workers with intestinal parasitic infection, from highly endemic countries, mainly from Asia and Africa.ObjectiveThis cross-sectional study aimed to assess for the first time the prevalence and associated factors of intestinal parasitic infestation among non-Saudi residents in Bahrah, western region, Saudi Arabia.Materials and methodsA total of 355 stool samples were collected from participants included in this study for several examinations of intestinal parasites. In addition, questionnaires including personal data, sociodemographic data, personal hygiene, health habits and other factors were used.ResultsThe prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections among non-Saudi workers in the present study was 22.3%, and the prevalence of protozoan infection was higher than helminth infection. Most of the workers were from Asian countries and were prevalent with Trichuris trichiura, Blastocystis hominis, Endolimax nana and Ascaris lumbricoides. Single intestinal infections were among 86% of the infected cases. The main significant factors associated with intestinal parasitic infections were personal hygiene practices (such as proper handwashing before meals and after using the toilet), source of drinking water and type of living accommodation.ConclusionIntestinal parasites were slightly more prevalent among non-Saudi workers in Bahrah. There is a need for public health awareness programs to prevent spreading of the infections.

FREQUÊNCIA DAS PARASITOSES INTESTINAIS EM ESCOLAS PÚBLICAS DA BAHIA

As parasitoses intestinais são frequentes em escolares públicos de baixo poder aquisitivo em países em desenvolvimento como o Brasil. Os objetivos dessa pesquisa foram: verificar a prevalência das parasitoses intestinais em estudantes de escolas públicas do município de Jequié-BA, e auxiliar na prevenção com um programa de educação. Foram utilizadas metodologias lúdicas nas oficinas educativas ministradas em duas escolas municipais. Foi utilizado o método de sedimentação espontânea para a análise do material fecal. A prevalência das parasitoses intestinais foi determinada de 2014 a 2017. Foram analisadas 352 amostras de fezes de estudantes de 7 a 14 anos de idade. Os resultados positivos para um ou mais parasitas foi de 55,97%. As crianças e adolescentes que apresentaram resultado positivo foram encaminhados ao tratamento. O parasita de maior frequência foi o Schistosoma mansoni 79 (22,4%) seguido pelo A. lumbricoides 69 (19,6%) e T. trichiura 45 (12,8%); Ancilostomídeos 28 (8,0%); H. nana 15 (4,3%); E. vermicularis 09 (2,6%). Entre os protozoários parasitas e comensais o de maior prevalência foi a Entamoeba coli 59 (16,8%); E. histolytica/dispar 52 (14,8%); G. lamblia 45 (12,8%); Endolimax nana 45 (12,8%), e Iodamoeba butschlii 30 (8,5%). Conclui-se que, apesar dos programas de prevenção existentes, ainda existe elevado índice de parasitoses intestinais na periferia de Jequié, revelando a importância de estudos de prevalência e educação em saúde.

The Prevalence of Intestinal Parasitic Infections in Ahvaz, Southwest of Iran, during 2007-2017

Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) are frequently considered one of the public health problems worldwide. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the prevalence of IPIs among patients. In this Retrospective cross-sectional study, 50000 stool samples (24551 males) were collected among males and females referred to Naft Hospital of Ahvaz, southern Iran during 2007-2017. At first, the collected specimens were macroscopically observed for the presence of trophozoites, eggs, cysts using the procedure of direct as well as the method of formalin-ether concentration. Of 50000 samples, 2878 (5.75%) cases were positive for IPIs that 1426 and 1452 cases were observed in the males and females, respectively. Giardia lamblia with 887 (1.774%) cases, Blastocystis hominis with 784 (1.568%) cases, Entamoeba histolytica/dispar with 685 (1.37%) cases, E. coli with 357 (0.714%) cases, Trichomonas hominis with 43 (0.086%) cases, Chilomastix mesnili with 40 (0.08%) cases, Hymenolepis nana with 38 (0.076%) cases, Lodamoeba butschlii with 25 (0.05%) cases, Endolimax nana with 18 (0.036%) cases, Taenia saginata proglottid with one (0.002%) case were found. Our finding showed a relatively high prevalence of IPIs among people referred to Naft Hospital of Ahvaz, southern Iran during 2007-2017.

High prevalence of intestinal helminthic infection among children under 5 years in a rural Ghanaian community: an urgent call for attention

Intestinal parasitic infections presents a significant public health concern in developing countries. The study determined the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection of children under 5years. A cross-sectional prospective study was conducted at Dodi Papase, a town in the Kadjebi district of the Oti region of Ghana. Stool samples were collected from 152 children under 5years and examined for the presence of intestinal parasites using Kato-Katz technique. Additionally, venous blood samples were collected from participants into EDTA tubes and analyzed for their hemoglobin concentration using the Sysmex XS-500i automated hematology analyzer All laboratory analyses were done at the Ho Teaching Hospital Laboratory. Overall prevalence of intestinal helminthic infections was 44.08% (67/152). Ascaris lumbricoides, Trichuris trichiura and Hookworm recorded 20.39%, 10.53% and 13.16% prevalence respectively. Children aged 4years recorded the highest prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections vis-à-vis 50.00% A. lumbricoides and 37.50% Hookworm while children below age 2years recorded the lowest. T. trichiura infection was highest among children below age 2years (44.44%) and lowest among children aged 4years. This study recorded an overall parasitic infections of 44.08%. This therefore calls for periodic screening, anti-helminthic treatment of these children as well as intensified education on attitudinal/behavioral change on improved personal and environmental hygiene in order to help control the menace of intestinal parasitic infections.

Prevalence of Intestinal Parasitic Infections among Individuals Referred to the Medical Centers of Coastal Cities, Guilan Province, Northern Iran, 2015-2017

Background: Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) are among the major public health problems, especially in developing countries. Northern Iran is highly endemic area for these infections. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of IPIs among people referred to the medical centers of the coastal cities in Guilan Province, Northern Iran. Methods: In this descriptive cross-sectional survey, 1232 stool samples were collected during 2015-2017. We used a structured questionnaire to obtain socio-demographic characteristics, and stool examination was performed using direct slide smear, formalin-ether concentration, trichrome and modified Ziehl-Neelsen staining techniques. The results were analyzed using SPSS and Chi-square test. Results: The overall prevalence of IPs in our study was 17.8% (219/1232). The most common IP was Blastocystis sp. 154/1232 (12.59%), followed by Giardia lamblia 50/1232 (4.1%) and Entamoeba hartmani 45/1232 (3.7%). Out of the 219 positive patients, 82 (55.14%) and 137 (44.85%) were female and males, respectively. Regarding the socio-demographic variables, educational status (P=0.226), contact with domestic animals and soil (P=0.476), age years (P=0.78), Occupation (0.637) and Gender (P=0.417) were not significantly associated to IPIs. Conclusion: In the past, parasitic infections were more prevalent in different parts of Iran. However, today it has declined indicating a significant improvement in level of individual hygiene, and environmental standards.

Prevalence of Intestinal Parasitic Infections and Transmission Risk Factors in Primary School Children in Mbeere North Sub-County, Embu County, Kenya

Intestinal parasitic infections (IPI) such as soil transmitted helminths (STH) and protozoa can cause diverse negative effects on human health. The prevalence of IPI in primary school children in Mbeere North sub-county in Embu County is not documented, though there are many cases reported in health centers in the area. The aim of this study was to establish the current prevalence of IPIs in primary school children in Mbeere North sub-county and the factors that perpetuate transmission which is necessary for implementation of suitable control programs in the study area. The study was done among primary school children from nine public schools. Three schools per administrative ward were randomly selected to represent each of the three administrative wards. A total of 414 pupils whose parents/guardians gave informed consent participated in the study, 46 pupils per school. Each participant provided a thumb size of early morning stool. The stool samples were processed by Formol-ether concentration technique and direct wet preparation methods for microscopic identification of intestinal parasites. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data on age, sex, sanitation and hygiene practices. The overall point prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections amongst the pupils was 43%. Chi-square (χ²) test was done to determine the relationship between prevalence and the pupils’ age and sex. There was no significant association between prevalence and sex (χ² = 0.184, P = 0.668, df = 1) but a significant association was found between prevalence and age where children 11 years and below were more pre-disposed than those above 11 years old (χ² =4.770, P=0.043, df =1). Similarly, a significant association was found between water source and prevalence of IPI; the parasites infection prevalence decreased when tap water was used and increased when open surface water was used (F = 6.15, P = 0.006). From this study, it is clear that IPIs particularly E. histolytica are a problem in primary school children in Mbeere North Sub-County. There is an urgent need for provision of safe domestic water in the county. Additionally, community education on sanitation and IPI transmission risk factors is urgently required. The information generated in this study is beneficial to the public health service in designing control strategies for areas of high transmission.

Prevalence of Intestinal Parasitic Infection and Its Associated Factors Among School Children in Two Primary Schools in Harbu Town, North East Ethiopia: Cross-Sectional Study.

BackgroundIntestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) are major health problems in many developing countries. School children between the ages of 5 and 15 years suffer the highest infection rate and parasitic burden that are attributed to poor sanitation and hygiene. In Ethiopia, the prevalence of IPIs among school children is high (ranging from 66.7% to 83.8%).MethodsSchool-based cross-sectional study was conducted in two primary schools at Harbu Town, Northeast Ethiopia from February to May, 2018. Systematic random sampling technique was employed to select study participants from the two school compounds. The sample size was determined by a single population proportion statistical formula and the minimum numbers of study participants defined were 400 school children. Socio-demographic and risk factor-related information were collected using structured questionnaire. Data about detection and identification of intestinal parasites were obtained from laboratory examination of stool specimen by using wet mount and formol-ether concentration techniques. Stool specimen from each study participant was collected using clean, properly labeled and leak-proof stool cup. The data were processed and analyzed using SPSS version 20 software.ResultsOut of a total of 400 study participants, 86 (21.5%) were found with one or more IPIs. Six different types of intestinal parasites were identified, Entamoeba histolytica was the most 33 (8.3%) detected parasite followed by Hymenolopis nana 19 (4.8%) and Schistosoma mansoni 19 (4.8%). The least identified parasite was Giardia lamblia, detected only from four study participants. Male study participants showed 2.42 times risk (AOR = 2.42, 95% CI = 1.25–4.7, P = 0.009) of acquiring parasitic infection than female. Presence of water body near to home and having contact with water bodies showed 7.64 (AOR= 7.64, 95% CI= 3.3–17.8, P= 0.000) and 4.6 (AOR=4.6, 95% CI: 2.04–10.57, P= 0.000) times risk of infection with parasitic infection among school children, respectively.ConclusionIPIs were highly prevalent health problem among the two primary school children in Harbu Town. Sex, availability of water bodies near to house and contact with water bodies were having significant association with the prevalence of IPIs.

Intestinal parasitosis, anaemia and risk factors among pre-school children in Tigray region, northern Ethiopia

BackgroundIntestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) and anaemia are major health problems. This study assessed the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections, anaemia and associated factors among pre-school children in rural areas of the Tigray region, northern Ethiopia.MethodsA community based cross-sectional study was conducted among 610 pre-school children in rural communities of Northern Ethiopia from June 2017 to August 2017. Stool specimens were examined for the presence of trophozoites, cysts, oocysts, and ova using direct, formal-ethyl acetate concentration, Kato–Katz, and Ziehl-Neelsen techniques. Haemoglobin was measured using a HemoCue spectrometer.ResultsAmong the 610 participating pre-school children in the study, the prevalence of IPIs and anaemia were 58% (95% conference interval (CI): 54.1–61.9%) and 21.6% (95% CI: 18.5–25.1%), respectively. Single, double, and triple parasitic infections were seen in 249 (41, 95% CI: 37–45%), 83 (14, 95% CI: 11–17%), and 22 (3.6, 95% CI: 2.4–5.4%) children, respectively. Of the seven intestinal parasitic organisms recorded from the participants, Entamoeba histolytica/dispar was the most prevalent 220 (36.1%) followed by Giardia lamblia 128 (20.1%), and Hymenolepis nana 102 (16.7%). Mixed infections were common among G. lamblia, E. histolytica/dispar and Cryptosporidium spp. oocyst. Intestinal parasitic infection prevalence increased from 47% in children aged 6–11 months to 66% in those aged 48–59 months; the prevalence ratio (PR) associated with a one-year increase in age was 1.08 (95% CI: 1.02–1.14, p = 0.009). Age-adjusted prevalence was higher in children who had been dewormed (PR = 1.2; 95% CI: 1.00–1.4, p = 0.045), and lower in households having two or more children aged under five (PR = 0.76, 95% CI: 0.61–0.95, p = 0.015). Anaemia rose from 28% in children aged 6–11 months to 43% in those aged 12–23 months, then fell continuously with age, reaching 7% in those aged 48–59 months. Age adjusted, anaemia was more prevalent in households using proper disposal of solid waste (PR = 1.5, 95% CI: 0.1–2.10, p = 0.009) while eating raw meat (PR = 0.49, 95% CI: 0.45–0.54, p = 0.000), any maternal education (PR = 0.64 95% CI: 0.52–0.79, p = 0.000), and household water treatment (PR = 0.75, 95% CI: 0.56–1.0, p = 0.044) were associated with lower prevalence of anaemia.ConclusionsMore than half of the children were infected with intestinal parasites, while anaemia prevalence was concentrated in the 12–23 month age group. This study has identified a number of potentially modifiable risk factors to address the significant prevalence of IPIs and anaemia in these children. Improvements in sanitation, clean water, hand hygiene, maternal education could address both short and long-term consequences of these conditions in this vulnerable population.

Molecular prevalence of intestinal parasites infections in children with diarrhea in Franceville, Southeast of Gabon

BackgroundPediatric diarrhea caused by a range of pathogens, including intestinal parasites, is one of main causes of death among children under 5 years of age. The distribution of these parasitic infections overlaps in many environmental, socioeconomic and epidemiological settings. Their distribution and prevalence varies from region to region. In the current study, we assess the prevalence of intestinal parasites among pediatric patients with syndromic diarrheal disease living in Franceville, Gabon.MethodsA cross-sectional study conducted in the Amissa Bongo Regional Hospital and Chinese-Gabonese Friendship Hospital in Franceville, between November 2016 and August 2017, enrolled a total of 100 diarrheic children between 0 and 180 months of age. Parasite detection in stool samples was performed using molecular diagnostic by PCR. Difference in means were tested by Student’s t test and ANOVA while principal component analysis was used to determine the correlation between parasite distributions and age groups.ResultsThe overall prevalence of intestinal parasite infection was 61% (61/100). Hymenolepis sp and Cryptosporidium hominis/parvum were the most common parasites (31 and 19%, respectively), followed by Encephalitozoon intestinalis (15%), Trichuris trichiura (4%), Dientamoeba fragilis (4%), and Enterocytozoon bieneusi (2%). The polyparasitism rate was 19.7%, with 83.3% double and 16.7% triple infections. Protozoan infections (66.7%) were more prevalent than helminths infections (33.3%). Seasonal association of the circulation of intestinal parasite was statistically significant (p = 0.03). Correlations between different parasites was also observed.ConclusionThe prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections is highest in diarrheic pediatric children. The prevalence of parasitic infections indicates that protozoa and helminths are the most common parasites in the Franceville environment. This study reinforces the importance of routine examination of diarrheic stool samples for the diagnostic of intestinal parasites. Further analyses are required to better understand the local epidemiology and risk factors associated with the transmission of intestinal parasites in Franceville, Gabon.Keyswordsdiarrhea, children, intestinal parasitic infections, molecular diagnostic, Franceville, Gabon.

FREQUENCY OF INTESTINAL PARASITIC INFECTIONS AMONG SCHOOLCHILDREN IN IBB CITY-YEMEN

Objectives: Intestinal parasitic infections are widely distributed and remain one of the most health problems in Yemen. This is a cross-sectional study aimed to determine the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection and associated factors among schoolchildren in Ibb City, Yemen.&#x0D; Methods: A total of 300 stool samples were collected from schoolchildren between January to April 2018 and examined by direct smear and formalin ether concentration techniques.&#x0D; Results: The result showed that 62.7% were positive for intestinal parasites, with a higher frequency of single than multiple infections (85.1 vs. 14.36%, respectively). Also, 85.64% were infected by protozoa whereas 14.36% infected by helminths. The prevalence of infection was 61.70% for Entameba histolytica, 23.94% for Giardia lamblia, 7.45% for Ascaris lumbricoides, 4.3% for Hymenolepis nana, and 2.61% for Enterobius vermicularis. Moreover, the highest prevalence of E. histolytica, G. lamblia, and A. lumbricoides was within group aged 9-12 years. H. nana was between age groups of 9-12 and 13-16 years while E. vermicularis was found among 5-8 and 9-12 years. In addition, females were 69% infected significantly higher than males 54.55%. Besides, the various signs and symptoms associated with intestinal infections have been documented.&#x0D; Conclusion: High prevalence of intestinal infection was documented among schoolchildren drinking from cistern water, poor hygiene practices, poor food sanitation, non-swimming, and non-previously treated for Schistosoma parasite. High frequency of intestinal parasitic infection between schoolchildren in the study area requires more effort to implement the appropriate programmers that warrant to control and prevention the prevalence of intestinal parasitosis.&#x0D; Peer Review History: &#x0D; Received 1 March 2019; Revised 7 April; Accepted 3 May, Available online 15 May 2020&#x0D; UJPR follows the most transparent and toughest ‘Advanced OPEN peer review’ system. The identity of the authors and, reviewers will be known to each other. This transparent process will help to eradicate any possible malicious/purposeful interference by any person (publishing staff, reviewer, editor, author, etc) during peer review. As a result of this unique system, all reviewers will get their due recognition and respect, once their names are published in the papers. We expect that, by publishing peer review reports with published papers, will be helpful to many authors for drafting their article according to the specifications. Auhors will remove any error of their article and they will improve their article(s) according to the previous reports displayed with published article(s). The main purpose of it is ‘to improve the quality of a candidate manuscript’. Our reviewers check the ‘strength and weakness of a manuscript honestly’. There will increase in the perfection, and transparency.&#x0D; Received file &#x0D; &#x0D; Average Peer review marks at initial stage: 6.0/10&#x0D; Average Peer review marks at publication stage: 8.0/10&#x0D; Reviewer(s) detail:&#x0D; Name: Dr. Hassan A.H. Al-Shamahy&#x0D; Affiliation: Sana'a University, Yemen&#x0D; E-mail: shmahe@yemen.net.ye&#x0D; &#x0D; Name: Hebatallaha A Moustafa&#x0D; Affiliation: Ain Shams University, Egypt&#x0D; E-mail: anasweety2003@yahoo.com&#x0D; Comments of reviewer(s): &#x0D; &#x0D; Similar Articles:&#x0D; COCCIDIAN INTESTINAL PARASITES AMONG CHILDREN IN AL-TORBAH CITY IN YEMEN: IN COUNTRY WITH HIGH INCIDENCE OF MALNUTRITION

Prevalence of Intestinal Parasitic Infections and Associated Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene Risk Factors among School Children in Mwea Irrigation Scheme, Kirinyaga County, Kenya.

School children bear a significant burden of intestinal parasitic infections. Because they spend most of their time at home and school, it is necessary to identify the key water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) factors associated with these infections in both environments. This was a cross-sectional survey conducted in Mwea West, Kirinyaga County. 180 primary school children aged 8–14 years were randomly selected from three schools (Mianya, Mbui Njeru, and Mukou primary schools). Questionnaires and checklists were administered and single stool samples were collected. Stool samples were microscopically examined for Schistosoma mansoni, soil-transmitted helminths, and protozoan infections. Data on WASH were obtained at home and school. The factors significantly associated with S. mansoni and intestinal protozoa infections in the school children were determined using univariable and multivariable logistic regression models reporting the odds ratio at 95% confidence intervals. The overall prevalence of S. mansoni and intestinal protozoa infections was 70.5% (95% CI: 59.1–84.3) and 32.7% (95% CI: 26.8–40.1), respectively. Only one case of STH (A. lumbricoides) was identified. The prevalence of coinfections of S. mansoni and intestinal protozoa infections was 22.8% (95% CI: 19.2–27.1). An increased prevalence of S. mansoni infection was associated with children above 12 years (aOR = 3.19, p=0.015), those in Mianya primary (aOR = 1.23, p=0.001), those in Mukou primary (aOR = 3.19, p=0.001), and reported behavior of wearing shoes at home (aOR = 1.67, p=0.010). However, handwashing behavior after defecation at home (aOR = 0.39, p=0.001) was protective against S. mansoni infection. For any protozoan infection, male children had increased odds of infection (aOR = 2.41, p=0.001) while use of wiping material (aOR = 0.55, p=0.019) and water contact (aOR = 0.32, p=0.001) was protective against intestinal protozoa infections. Infections with S. mansoni and any protozoa and their coinfection were present. Findings revealed that several hygiene factors were protective against infections while other were risk factors. Therefore, deworming should be complemented with behavior education on hygienic habits.

Prevalence and risk factors of intestinal parasites among primary school children in Shashamane town, southern Ethiopia

Background: In spite of mass drug administration, in Ethiopia, a significant number of school children infected had an intestinal parasite infection. Investigating factors associated with the prevalence of intestinal parasite infection among school children is indispensable to design appropriate preventive strategies. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of intestinal parasite infection and associated factors among school children in Melka Essa primary school, Shashamane town South Ethiopia. Methods: A school–based cross–sectional study was employed in south Ethiopia from June 19–30, 2019. Three hundred thirty–three school children were included using a systematic sampling technique. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and stool–specimen examination for intestinal parasites. Stool samples were collected and processed by direct wet mount and formol–ether concentration techniques for microscopic detection of intestinal parasites. Descriptive statistics were computed. Binary and multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify factors associated with intestinal parasites. Results: The overall prevalence for at least one intestinal parasite infection was 19.7% (95%CI: 15.3–24.5). Hymenolepsis nana (36.2%), Ascaris lumbricoides (24.1%), Entamoeba histolytica/dispar (12.1%), Giardia lamblia (12.1%), Tinea species (12.1%), and Enterobius Vermicularis (3.4%) were identified. Walking with barefoot [AOR=3.63, 95% CI =1.63– 8.07] and having untrimmed fingernails [AOR=1.95, 95% CI=1.05–3.62] were associated with the presence of intestinal parasite infections. Conclusions: Overall, every fifth of the student was infected by intestinal parasites in the present study. Walking with barefoot and having untrimmed fingernails were independent predictors for intestinal parasite infections. Thus, there is a need for consistent health education related to personal hygiene along with routine mass drug administration in the study area.

Intestinal Parasitic Infections and Eosinophilia: A Cross-sectional Study among Primary School-aged Children in Medan, Indonesia

Background:Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) anditsimplication, such as malnutrition, growth stunting, anemia, and concentration impairment, still become a global burden. The primary immune cell that firstly involved in counteracting parasitic invasion is eosinophil. Therefore, higher levels of eosinophils could be suspected of havinga parasitic infection.Objective: Our study aimed to revealthe prevalence of IPIs and its correlation with eosinophilia.Material and Methods: The study was located in two different public primary schools,Public Primary School 060925 Harjosari 1, Amplas, Medan, Indonesia and Public Primary School 101747 Hamparan Perak, Deli Serdang, Indonesia which enrolled 132 primary school children aged 8-12 years graded III-VI, consisting of 22 males and 110 females,who had met the inclusion criteria between May and October 2016. Parasitology examination was carried out at the Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Sumatera Utara using Kato-Katz, Lugol, trichrome, and modified acid-fast stain.Results: The study found intestinal protozoa infections were the most common IPIs in the population, Giardia lamblia as the most prevalent species (37.1%), while hookworm with the fewest findings (2.8%). Additionally, the statistical analysis proved a significant correlation between IPIs and eosinophilia (p-value 0.021; 95% CI 1.13-5.58).Conclusion: eosinophilia patients with profound clinical manifestation should be further assessed to be considered for the administration of anti-parasitic medication.International Journal of Human and Health Sciences Vol. 04 No. 04 October’20 Page : 277-281

Community Health Impacts of the Trident Copper Mine Project in Northwestern Zambia: Results from Repeated Cross-Sectional Surveys.

The application of a health impact assessment (HIA) for a large-scale copper mining project in rural Zambia triggered the long-term monitoring and evaluation of determinants of health and health outcomes in communities living in proximity to the mine. Three consecutive cross-sectional surveys were conducted at intervals of four years; thus, at baseline (2011), four (2015) and eight (2019) years into the project’s development. Using the same field and laboratory procedures, the surveys allowed for determining changes in health indicators at the household level, in young children (<5 years), school attendees (9–14 years) and women (15–49 years). Results were compared between communities considered impacted by the project and communities outside the project area (comparison communities). The prevalence of Plasmodium falciparum infection increased in both the impacted and comparison communities between 2011 and 2019 but remained consistently lower in the impacted communities. Stunting in children < 5 years and the prevalence of intestinal parasite infections in children aged 9–14 years mostly decreased. In women of reproductive age, selected health indicators (i.e., anaemia, syphilis, underweight and place of delivery) either remained stable or improved. Impacted communities generally showed better health outcomes than comparison communities, suggesting that the health interventions implemented by the project as a consequence of the HIA have mitigated potential negative effects and enhanced positive effects. Caution is indicated to avoid promotion of health inequalities within and beyond the project area.

Prevalence of Intestinal Parasites among Rural Inhabitants of Fouman, Guilan Province, Northern Iran with Emphasis on Strongyloides stercoralis

Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) are among the most important etiologies of gastrointestinal disorders in developing countries. The present study was performed to determine the prevalence of IPIs in rural inhabitants of Fouman, northern Iran. Overall, 31 villages were randomly selected during 2015-2016. Stool samples were collected from 1500 inhabitants aged 2-87. The samples were examined by direct wet smear, formalin ethyl-acetate concentration and agar plate culture. Trichrome staining and modified acid-fast staining were used as confirmatory tests for intestinal amoeba and flagellates and cryptosporidium spp., respectively. Data were analyzed with Chi-Square and Fisher exact tests using SPSS. 8.06% of participants were positive for at least one intestinal parasite. The prevalence of mixed parasitic infections was 0.87%. The most prevalent IPIs were caused by Trichostrongylus spp. (3.13%), followed by Strongyloides stercoralis (1.5%), Giardia lamblia (1.3%), and Entamoeba coli (1.0%), Blastocystis hominis (0.86%), E. histolytica/dispar (0.53%), Endolimax nana (0.26%), Iodamoeba butschlii (0.13%), Trichuris trichiura (0.07%), Enterobius vermicularis (0.07%), Hook worm (0.07%) and E. hartmani (0.07%). Statistically, the prevalence of IPIs showed significant differences regarding the age groups, education status, occupation (P<0.001), and the habit of eating raw vegetables (P<0.007), whereas, the differences were insignificant with regard to sex (P=0.924) and water supply (P=0.088). The prevalence of IPIs, especially soil-transmitted helminthes (STHs) has sharply decreased in northern Iran. Excluding Trichostrongylus spp. and S. stercoralis, other intestinal parasites only produce a marginal and unnoticeable health problem in this area, today.

Prevalence of Intestinal Parasitic Infections and Associated Risk Factors among the First-Cycle Primary Schoolchildren in Sasiga District, Southwest Ethiopia.

Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) have been major public health burdens in low-income countries like Ethiopia. Studies in different areas of Ethiopia have shown a high prevalence of IPIs in poor families. A similar study has not been conducted in Sasiga District given that the area is possibly at high-risk of IPIs due to the prevailing risk factors. This study is aimed at assessing the prevalence of IPIs and associated risk factors among schoolchildren in Sasiga District, southwest Ethiopia. A school-based cross-sectional study was conducted from December 2018 to March 2019 to estimate the prevalence of IPIs and associated risk factors among the study participants. A total of 383 children were selected using resident-type and grade-level stratified systematic random sampling technique. Stool samples were examined microscopically using direct wet mount and formal-ether concentration techniques. A structured questionnaire was used to get information on the associated risk factors. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20 and p value of ≤0.05 was taken as statistically significant. The overall prevalence of IPIs among the children was 62.4% (239/383). Single, double, and triple infections were 49.9%, 10.7%, and 1.83%, respectively. Residence, family income, place of defecation, source of drinking water, shoe-wearing habit, handwashing habit after toilet use, ways of waste disposal, and cleanliness of fingernail were the most important predictors of IPIs (p < 0.05). Ascaris lumbricoides (22.7% (87/383)) and hookworms (20.6% (79/383)) were the most prevalent parasites, followed by Entamoeba histolytica (8.1%), Trichuris trichiura (7.6%), Giardia intestinalis (6.5%), Hymenolepis nana (5.7%), and Schistosoma mansoni (4.4%), in that order. Sasiga District primary schoolchildren are likely at a high burden of IPIs. Intensive health education on personal hygiene and environmental sanitation is needed.

Assessment of the prevalence of intestinal parasite infections among patients at the Laboratory of Department of Biology and Medical Parasitology of the Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin in the years 1983–2012

Abstract Introduction: Intestinal parasitoses are among the most common parasitic diseases in Poland. The aim of this study was to assess their prevalence in patients of the Laboratory of the Department of Biology and Medical Parasitology (LDBMP) of the Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin (PMU) in the years 1983–2012. Materials and methods: The analysis concerned the results of parasitological surveys conducted between 1983–2012 in 9760 patients. Parasitological diagnosis was performed by standard faecal examination method (direct swab) and/or perianal swab. Results: During the study period, 486 cases of infection with intestinal parasites were recorded. The mean prevalence of intestinal parasites was 4.98%, and the percentage of infected patients ranged from 8.8% in 1993 to 0% in 2002. The most frequently detected parasitic species were: Entamoeba coli (1.52%), Giardia lamblia (0.95%), Blastocystis spp. (0.89%), Enterobius vermicularis (0.79%), and Taenia saginata (0.36%). In the period 2003–2012 the most prevalent parasites were Blastocystis spp., E. coli, and E. vermicularis. An increase in the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections from 2009–2012 was associated with an increase in the prevalence of Blastocystis spp. Conclusions: The prevalence of intestinal parasites among the patients of the LDBMP in the years 1983–2012 was lower in comparison with other Polish regions. The high prevalence of 2 protozoan species – potentially pathogenic Blastocystis spp. and non-pathogenic E. coli – among intestinal parasites detected in the years 2003–2012 may indicate improvement in the epidemio-logical situation regarding intestinal parasitoses in patients of the LDBMP in comparison to the 1980s and 1990s.