Prevalence Of Intestinal Parasitic Infections Research Articles

Prevalence of intestinal parasites among Sarki ethnic group of Pala Rural Municipality, Baglung, Nepal.

Intestinal parasitic infections are among the major public and socioeconomic concerns that have adversely affected the well-being of the poor in developing countries. This research work aimed to inspect the prevalence of gastro-intestinal (GI) among Sarki ethnic group of Pala Rural Municipality, Baglung, Nepal. Total 498 stool samples collected in dry, screw capped clean plastic vails and studied for the presence of parasites using direct smear method as well as by concentration method. Overall parasite positive rate was found to be 31.32% (156/498). The prevalence of single infection was higher than double infection among Sarki ethnic group. There were no significant differences in prevalence of parasites among different age-groups, sexes and villages. Positive rate was considerably higher in females (47.5%; 38/80) compared with males (32.5%; 26/80) (P<0.05). Altogether six genera of parasites were encountered. Of them, Trichuris trichura (53.20%; 264/498) was the most prevalent parasite followed by Ascaris lumbricoides (33.97%; 169/498), Entamoeba coli (4.49%; 22/498), Taenia sp. (3.21%; 16/498), Strongyloides stercoralis (2.56%; 13/498) and Hymenolepis nana (2.56%; 13/498). Remarkable prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection was indicated by the present study carried out among Sarki ethnic group of Pala Rural Municipality, Baglung district of Nepal.

Prevalence of Intestinal Parasitic Infection in children among age of 6 to 12 years in rural area of Bareilly District: Cross Sectional Study

Background: In India overall prevalence rate of intestinal parasitic infection ranges from 12.5% to 66% with varying prevalence rate for individual parasite. About 50% of the urban population and 68% of the rural population in India is affected. Aim: Prevalence of Intestinal Parasitic Infection in children among age of 6 to 12 years in rural area of Bareilly District Material and Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted using multistage random sampling technique in rural area of Bareilly District, Uttar Pradesh, India, from November 2016 – October 2017. Result: Among 248 children, the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infestation in 6-12 years of aged children was found to be 33.90%. Conclusion: This study revealed high prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection among 6-12 years of age children in Rural Area of Bareilly District.

Intestinal parasitic infections and associated factors among people living with HIV/AIDS in Ethiopia: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BackgroundIntestinal parasitic infections are major public health problems throughout the world, particularly in people living with HIV/AIDS. People living with HIV/AIDS are vulnerable groups for a variety of diseases, hence they are easily affected by opportunistic and non-opportunistic intestinal parasites due to the weakening of their immunity. Therefore, this study aimed to estimate the pooled prevalence and factors associated with intestinal parasitic infections among people living with HIV/AIDS in Ethiopia.MethodsArticles were identified through search engines in the online electronic databases PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, HINARI, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, Google Scholar, and reference lists of previous studies following the PRISMA Protocol. Studies conducted between 2003 and 2020 with English language were included in this study. This review included papers with having high-quality NOS scores. Meta-analysis was computed using STATA version 11 software. Heterogeneity was assessed using the Cochrane Q-test and I2 test statistics. Subgroup and sensitivity analysis was employed with evidence of heterogeneity. Publication bias was determined using the funnel plot and Egger’s regression test statistic.ResultsThis study included a total of twenty-two cross-sectional studies with 5,833 study participants. The mean age of the study participants was 35 years old. The pooled prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection among people living with HIV/AIDS in Ethiopia was 39.15% (95%CI: 32.34, 45.95). The pooled prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections among people living with HIV/AIDS who had taking ART and who had not to start ART was found to be 28.27% (95%CI 22.47, 34.06) and 41.63% (95%CI: 28.75, 54.52) respectively. Unavailability of latrine (AOR: 4.87, (95% CI: 2.39, 9.92)), CD4+ T cell count <200cells/μl ((AOR: 3.53, (95%CI: 1.98, 6.27)), and having a history of diarrhea (AOR: 4.79 (95%CI: 1.53, 14.99) were factors significantly associated with intestinal parasitic infections.ConclusionIn this study, the overall pooled prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections among HIV/AIDS patients in Ethiopia was relatively high. CD4+ T-cell count <200cells/μl, unavailability of a latrine, and history of diarrhea were significantly associated with intestinal parasitic infections. Therefore, the policymakers and health care professionals could give special attention to the presence of latrines, early detection and treatment of intestinal parasitic infections, and early initiation of ART drugs.

Intestinal parasitic infections in a population ofBaAka Pygmies inhabiting the Congo Basin inthe Central African Republic.

Pygmy tribes inhabit tropical environment of Central Africa. After expulsion from their original habitat by the Bantu people, they settled in a local forest ecosystem where they live with very low sanitary standards. Their actual morbidity remains unknown. The aim of the study was to analyze the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections in BaAka Pygmies inhabiting the Congo Basin in the Central African Republic. The study was conducted in 2015, and involved a group of 950 Pygmies living inthe Sangha-Mbaere and Lobaye prefectures. Single stool samples were collected from study participants, fixed in 10% formalin, transported from Africa to Europe, and analyzed by light microscopy using 5 different diagnostic methods (direct smear, decantation with distilled water, Fülleborne's flotation, Kato-Miura thick smear, DiaSyS/PARASYS system sedimentation) at the Military Institute of Medicine in Warsaw, Poland. Microscopic examination revealed infections with 14 different species of intestinal nematodes, cestodes, trematodes and protozoa. According to the study findings, 90.5% of BaAka Pygmies were found to be infected with intestinal parasites, and 70.8% had mixed infections. Most of the pathogenic intestinal parasites were nematodes (85.0%), with Asrcaris lumbricoides (29.8%), hookworm (29.4%) and Trichuris trichiura (10.7%) being predominant. Poor sanitation, limited the high prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections in the community of Pygmies. The negative test results may prove the effectiveness of periodic deworming campaigns chich, implemented by non-governmental organizations, are voluntary with respect to the informed consent principle.

Prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections and associated risk factors among children attending a tertiary care hospital

Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) are one of the major causes of morbidity in the developing world. This hospital-based prospective study was undertaken to estimate the prevalence rates of IPIs and to assess the risk factors associated with these infections in children attending a paediatric hospital. Seven hundred and five patients were analysed for IPIs and associated risk factors from April 2018 to March 2019. Information on the associated risk factors was obtained from a structured questionnaire protocol. Microscopic examination of stool samples was done by direct slide smear and after the formol-ether concentration technique. The overall prevalence of IPIs was 20.9%. In the age group, 5-9 years, the prevalence of parasitic infection (27.4%) was high. Among the intestinal parasites detected helminths and protozoans were 60.8% and 39.1% respectively. Among the helminths, Ascaris lumbricoides (20.5%) was most prevalent followed by Trichuris trichiura (18.1%) while among the protozoa Giardia intestinalis (18.7%) was most prevalent, followed by Entamoeba spp. (8.4%). Among the positive samples, the single parasite was detected in 87.8% while dual parasites were detected in 12.2% stool samples. Univariate analysis showed age, drinking water from an open well, a habit of open defecation, illiteracy and living in a rural area to be associated with a high risk of IPIs (P&lt;0.05). Multivariate logistic regression revealed a significant association of intestinal parasitic infections with age (0-5years) and (10-14 years) and drinking water from an open well. Identifying and rectifying risk factors by creating awareness are needed to prevent community spread. Periodic deworming programmes should be implemented successfully in the community.

Prevalence Of Intestinal Parasitic Infections Among Egyptian Children With Chronic Kidney Diseases In Zagazig University Childrenʼs Hospital

Prevalence Of Intestinal Parasitic Infections Among Egyptian Children With Chronic Kidney Diseases In Zagazig University Childrenʼs Hospital

Prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection in school children in Bijapur, Karnataka

Intestinal parasitic infections continue to be a major health problem in children in developing countries. The present study attempted to assess the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections in primary school children aged 8-13 years in a primary school. It was a cross-sectional study including 58 primary school children, out of which 35 were boys and 23 were females. Out of the 58 subjects examined 6 (11%) had intestinal parasite infection. The prevalence of infection was maximum in the age group of 10-11 years, followed by almost equal prevalence in age group of 8-9 years and 12-13 years. Among the parasites, the prevalence of ascaris lumbricoides was highest (83%), followed by hymenolepsis nana (16%). The prevalence of parasitic infestation was seen higher in those who consumed untreated water, and, in those who had open sanitary habits. Health education regarding hygienic practices in the school at primary levels can have significant effect in prevention of intestinal parasites infection among the children. Keywords: Parasitic infection, Open sanitation, Treated water, Ascaris.

Prevalence of the common intestinal parasitic infections and predisposing factors among the asymptomatic primary school children in Finoteselam town, West Gojam Zone, Amhara region (Ethiopia).

Background: Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) have been still quite common in developing countries including Ethiopia, particularly in children with low socio-economic and poor living conditions. Previous studies in Ethiopia have shown high burden of intestinal parasitic infections among the primary school children. The effective prevention and control of parasitic infections require research work based on the identification of intestinal parasites including associated predisposing factors. Objective: The aim of the present study was to investigate the prevalence of common intestinal parasitic infections and predisposing factors among the asymptomatic primary school children. Methods: A school based cross- sectional study was conducted from September, 2019- January, 2020 and a total of 422 asymptomatic primary school children were involved in the study. Specimens of the stool samples were examined using the standard parasite and ova method. Direct microscopy using saline and iodine wet mount preparation was used to examine the presence of eggs and larvae of helminthes and trophozoites and cysts of protozoan parasites and formalin ether concentration method was used for quality assurance. Structured questionnaires were also used to collect quantitative data on socio-demographic characteristics and predisposing factors. Analysis of the data was made manually using the thematic framework method including descriptive statistics. Results: Among the 422 students (aged 5-14 years) participated in the study, 245(58%) were positive for one or more intestinal parasites. Of the total infected participants, 192(45.5%) were single infections and 53(12.6%) were double infections identified. Seven types of intestinal parasitic infections were identified in the present study. The most prevalent parasite was Giardia lamblia 95(22.5%) followed by hook worm 58(13.7%). Age groups 5-9 years old were more infected, 173 (70.6%) than age groups 10-14 years old 72(29.4%). This result also showed parasitic infections were associated with predisposing factors related to infectious cycles. Concluding Remarks and Recommendations: The present study revealed that there was a high prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection among students in the targeted primary schools. Therefore, all stakeholders should give attention to raise awareness about the prevention and control mechanisms of intestinal parasitic infections. Moreover, the health services of the local government should develop a habit of mass public health education and deworming intervention to improve the level of parasitic infection and environmental hygiene in the study area.

The Prevalence of Intestinal Parasites and Their Associated Factors among Diabetes Mellitus Patients at the University of Gondar Referral Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia.

Background Worldwide, more than one-sixth of the population is infected by intestinal parasites, of which the majority live in developing countries. On the other hand, the prevalence of diabetes mellitus has been increasing over recent decades in developing countries. Patients with diabetes mellitus encountered impaired immunity and suffer from the consequences of infection particularly intestinal parasitic infection. Objective This study is aimed at assessing the prevalence of intestinal parasites and associated factors among diabetes mellitus patients at the University of Gondar Referral Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia. Methods and Materials An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted at the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Referral Hospital from February 15 to March 30, 2018. A total of 234 diabetes mellitus patients were enrolled. A systematic random sampling technique was used to select study participants. Sociodemographic and clinical data were collected using a semistructured questionnaire. A 5-gram stool sample was collected to identify parasitic infection using a direct wet mount and formal-ether concentration technique. Data was entered and analyzed by using SPSS version 20. A p value of ≤0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Result In the current study, the overall prevalence of intestinal parasite infection among diabetics was 45 (19.2%). The parasites identified in this study were Ascaris lumbricoides 15 (6.41%), Entamoeba histolytica/dispar 9 (3.85%), Hookworm 9 (3.85%), Schistosoma mansoni 7 (3%), Enterobius vermicularis 3 (1.3%), and Giardia lamblia 2 (0.9%). Poor educational background (AOR = 3.62; 95% CI (1.038, 12.65); p = 0.043), poor hygiene and sanitation (AOR = 4.67; 95% CI (1.82, 12.07); p = 0.001), and inappropriate latrine usage (AOR = 5.41; 95% CI (1.43, 20.56); p = 0.013) were significantly associated with the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection among diabetes mellitus patients. Conclusion The overall prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection among diabetes mellitus patients was relatively high. There should be continued prevention, control, and management of intestinal parasitic infection in such a study population.

Intestinal parasitic infections and its trends: a 5-year findings from a tertiary care centre, Puducherry, South India.

Intestinal parasitic infection (IPI) constitute a global health burden causing clinical morbidity in 450 million people. Many of these are women of reproductive age and children in developing countries. Mass deworming programmes with improvement in lifestyle are likely to reduce the intensity and prevalence of infection over the years. Hence, we aimed to assess the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections among patients in a tertiary healthcare setting and to examine its time trends. A descriptive cross-sectional study was done using routinely collected data in a tertiary care hospital in South India. Details of examination of stool samples for the presence of intestinal helminth and protozoan ova/cysts, over the period of 5years (2014-2019) were extracted from laboratory register and hospital information system. The presence of intestinal parasitic infection was determined by stool microscopy (direct wet mount and concentration techniques). Of the total 3267 stool samples, 303 (9.3%) had at least one parasite; 3.9% (93/3267) with helminths and 2.5% (81/3267) Entamoeba and multi-parasitism was seen in 0.14%. Stool samples from more than 18years age had high positivity rate than others. Majority of the helminth infections were caused by Ascaris (57%) followed by hookworm (42%). Initially IPI which was 10.9% in 2014 declined to 10% in 2016 and attained a peak of 12.4% in 2017 then decreased to 6.7% in 2018. Nearly one out of ten patients had a parasitic infection. Prevalence surveys in the community followed by strengthening the deworming procedures will reduce the burden of IPIs.

Intestinal parasitic infections among hemodialysis Sudanese patients.

Background: Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) can result in high morbidity and mortality, particularly in immunocompromised patients. Intestinal parasitic infections rate among hemodialysis Sudanese patients studied infrequently. Our paper aimed to examine and determine the prevalence of intestinal parasites among hemodialysis Sudanese patients. Methods: Stool samples were collected from Sudanese patients at a hemodialysis center in Kosti city, White Nile state, Sudan. All stool samples were examined to detect the type of parasites and determine the prevalence using the formol-ether concentration technique and Modified Zeihl Neelsen (ZN) stain technique. Results: The overall prevalence of Intestinal parasitic infections among hemodialysis using the formol-ether concentration technique and Modified Zeihl Neelsen (ZN) stain technique was (28.6%) and (44.6%) respectively. The total prevalence of parasites detected by formol-ether concentration technique; Giardia lamblia (46.9%), Entamoeba histolytica (12.5%), Entamoeba coli (40.6%), and by modified ZN staining technique; Cryptosporidium species (28%) and Isospora belli (8%). The prevalence of IPIs was higher among males than females (74 vs. 26%, respectively; P>0.05) Conclusions: Studying the prevalence of IPIs among hemodialysis Sudanese patients, may predict their health status and lead to better diagnosis and treatment. Health education and personal hygiene were recommended to reduce the transmission of parasitic diseases. This is a first descriptive study of IPIs among hemodialysis in the area of study.

Prevalence of Intestinal Parasitic Infestation among Pre-school Children in Skardu, Pakistan

Background: World Health Organization (WHO) reports that around 270 million pre-school children and over six hundred million school children are likely to be infested with one or more types of the intestinal worms. The helminthic infestations are indicators of the low socioeconomic status, lack of education, lack of good hygienic conditions and inaccessibility to potable water. Our study aimed to estimate prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections among 1 to 5 years old children residing in the district Skardu of Gilgit Baltistan, Pakistan. Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional study was carried out on pre-school children of the district Skardu from August 2016 to January 2017. A sample of 300 children was obtained using non-probability convenience sampling technique. Demographical data was obtained through the structured questionnaire. The stool sample was collected and examined for intestinal parasites. The data was analysed using SPSS. Results: The prevalent intestinal helminths were found to be Ascaris Lumbricoides, Cryptosporidium , Hymenolepis Nana and Giardia with proportion of 22.33% , 14.0% , 9.3% and 8.0% respectively in our study population. 85% children of the sample belonged to low or lower middle socio-economic (SE) groups; correspondingly, increased prevalence of intestinal helminthic infestation was noted in the same SE groups. Conclusion: A high prevalence of these parasitic infections have been found in the children in Sakardu, which increases with age as the children start eating by themselves.

Intestinal parasitic infection among foreign housemaids in northwestern Saudi Arabia: A cross-sectional study.

Owing to Saudi Arabia's high-income economy many Saudi families hire foreign housemaids. However, since the housemaids are potential carriers of intestinal parasites, hiring them increases the risk of transmission to the Saudi community. In this context, this study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections in foreign housemaids in northwestern Saudi Arabia. Using direct wet mount and concentration by flotation, the stool samples of 169 housemaids were examined, and eleven parasite species, six helminths and five protozoans, were detected. The overall prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection was 20.11% (34/169). Twelve cases were infected with one intestinal helminth, 12 were infected with one intestinal protozoan, and 10 had polyparasitism. The most common intestinal parasites were Cryptosporidium spp. (n=10), hookworms (n=7), and T. Trichiura (n=7). The findings highlight that intestinal parasites present an important public health concern for foreign housemaids in Saudi Arabia. More vigilance is thus required, and periodic follow-up should be exercised throughout foreign housemaids' stay in the country.

Intestinal parasites among humans and their livestock animals in a rural community in Gharbia governorate, Egypt

Our objective was to study the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections among humans and their contact livestock animals in a rural community in Gharbia governorate, Egypt. The collected human and livestock animal fecal samples were examined by formol ether sedimentation technique and modified Ziehl-Neelsen stain. Human samples were further examined by the Kato-Katz technique. The total prevalence of intestinal parasites in humans was 52.3%; 7.3% helminths and 45% protozoa. Regarding animals, 29% of livestock animals had protozoan parasites and no helminths were detected. Results revealed that risk factors including drinking tap water and attendance of nurseries, affected the rate of parasitic infection among humans. The infection rate of protozoa was significantly higher among humans (1.5 times) as compared to animals.

Global prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections and associated risk factors in pregnant women: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) during pregnancy, if left untreated, can cause adverse effects for the mothers, foetuses and newborns. However, limited information is available about the global status of IPIs in pregnant women. Here we undertook a meta-analysis to estimate the global prevalence of IPIs and associated risk factors in pregnant women. We searched the PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar databases for relevant studies that were published between 1 January 1987 and 30 December 2019. A random effects meta-analysis model was used to estimate the pooled prevalence, odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). A total of 114 studies comprising 98342 pregnant women across 35 countries were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis. Among IPIs identified from pregnant women, three helminth infections (hookworm 19% [95% CI 15 to 23], Ascaris lumbricoides 17% [95% CI 13 to 21] and Trichuris trichiura 11% [95% CI 7 to 16]) and three protozoan infections (Blastocystis sp. 21% [95% CI 4 to 46], Entamoeba histolytica/dispar 9% [95% CI 3 to 19] and Giardia sp. 8% [95% CI 4 to 13]) were identified as the most prevalent intestinal parasites. Moreover, we found that there was a significant association between IPIs with increased risk of anaemia in pregnant women (OR 2.65 [95% CI 2.08 to 3.37]). The prevalence of IPIs was slightly higher in geophagic pregnant women compared with controls, but this was not significant (OR 1.22 [95% CI 0.87 to 1.71]). According to species, the pooled OR of A. lumbricoides infection had a significantly higher risk in geophagic pregnant women compared with controls (OR 2.66 [95% CI 1.37 to 5.16]). There was a positive relationship between the high prevalence of IPIs in pregnant women living in rural areas compared with urban residents (OR 3.36 [95% CI 1.57 to 7.19]). The current review revealed a relatively high prevalence of IPIs in pregnant women, especially in some low- and middle-income countries. These results suggest a need for improved prevention and control efforts to reduce the health risks to pregnant women.

Intestinal Parasitic Infections among HIV-Infected Patients on Antiretroviral Therapy Attending Debretabor General Hospital, Northern Ethiopia: A Cross-Sectional Study.

BackgroundParasitic infections are known causes of morbidity among HIV-infected patients with low CD4+ counts who are on antiretroviral therapy (ART), mainly as a result of immuno suppression. This study aimed to assess the extent of intestinal parasitic infection and related risk factors among HIV-infected patients attending ART clinic at Debretabor General Hospital, Northern Ethiopia.MethodsA health facility–based cross-sectional study was conducted on 383 HIV-infected patients attending the ART clinic of Debretabor General Hospital, northern Ethiopia from December 2018 to March 2019. An interview-based structured questionnaire was used to gather sociodemographic and risk-factor data. About 5 g fresh stool and 4 mL venous blood were collected from each patient, then transported and tested in accordance with laboratory-standard operating procedures. Data obtained were entered into SPSS version 22.0 and analyzed. P<0.05 with 95% CI was considered statistically significant.ResultsThe overall prevalence of intestinal parasites was 25.3%, with 18% and 23.8% by direct wet-mount and formol ether–concentration technique, respectively. Eight (2.1%) patients were infected by multiple parasites using the concentration technique. Ascaris lumbricoides was the most frequently identified parasite (n=23, 25.3%). Parasitic infection was significantly higher among illiterates (P=0.011), patients with CD4 count <200 cells/mm3 (P<0.001), and those who did not have a toilet in their home (P=0.049) than their counterparts.ConclusionRelatively higher prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection was found among HIV/AIDS patients. The distribution of intestinal parasites was greatly affected by illiteracy, reduced CD4+ counts, and absence of a toilet. Therefore, HIV/AIDS patients with low CD4+ counts should be diagnosed consistently for intestinal parasites with routine stool examinations, and awareness creation should be advocated to be included as an essential component of ART-monitoring strategies for improved patient care.

Prevalence and Determinants of Intestinal Parasitic Infections among Pregnant Women Receiving Antenatal Care in Kasoa Polyclinic, Ghana.

Background Intestinal parasitic infections affect pregnant women worldwide. The infection has been implicated in causing life-threatening conditions in both gravid women and their developing foetus. Sub-Saharan Africa is known to harbor the greatest proportion of intestinal parasitic infections largely due to socioeconomic and environmental factors. In Kasoa, Southern Ghana, there is paucity of data on the prevalence and associated factors of intestinal parasitic infections among pregnant women. Objective The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections and associated factors among pregnant women attending antenatal care in Kasoa Polyclinic. Methods A hospital based analytical cross-sectional study was carried out among three hundred (300) conveniently sampled pregnant women receiving antenatal care services at the Kasoa Polyclinic. Structured questionnaires were administered to the study participants to assess sociodemographic and other possible factors. Stool samples were collected from each pregnant woman and examined for the presence of intestinal parasites by microscopy using direct wet mount as well as formol-ether sedimentation techniques. Results Overall prevalence of intestinal parasites was 14.3% (95% CI 11–19%). Entamoeba histolytica (5.0%) was the most predominant parasite species identified followed by Ascaris lumbricoides (4.3%), Giardia lamblia (2.3%), Trichuris trichiura (1.3%), Schistosoma mansoni (0.3%), Hookworm (0.3%), Hymenolepis nana (0.3%), and Isospora belli (0.3%). Age > 30 years (AOR = 0.17, 95% CI = 0.06–0.48; p=0.001), multigravidity (AOR = 0.43, 95% CI = 0.19–0.97; p=0.043), and 2nd and 3rd trimesters (AOR = 4.73, 95% CI = 1.36–16.49; p=0.015) were independently associated with intestinal parasitic infections among pregnant women. Conclusions A prevalence of 14.3% pregnant women compared to previous studies in Ghana is relatively low. It however suggests that intestinal parasitic infection is still a problem. The major factors noted were age, gravidity, and gestational age. Routine stool examination and provision of public health education are recommended to prevent infection of pregnant mothers and their unborn babies.

Mass Investigation on Intestinal Parasite Infection in Masjed Soleyman, Iran, 2010-2017: A Large Population Survey

Background and Aims: Globally, intestinal parasitic infections are a significant risk to human health. These infections may cause many health problems for humans, such as reduced growth, especially in children. This study, epidemiologically, aims to investigate the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections which are collected from three medical centers in the city of Masjed Soleyman located in the southwest of Iran from 2010 to 2017. Materials and Methods: In this retrospective study, documented data of three medical center’s laboratories in Masjed Soleyman were collected through the years 2010 to 2017. In these medical centers, conventional parasitology methods such as direct observation are employed for detection, and other techniques have been practiced in required cases. Results: Out of 45829 patients, 9.7% of the patients were infected by the intestinal parasites. Statistical analysis has revealed that there is a significant relationship between the rate of infection and sex and season. Conclusions: Considering the obtained data, the incidence of protozoan parasites is more than worm infections. Despite increased levels of public health, parasitic infections that are transmitted directly are still found in the community. The air temperature, sex, environmental pollution, and lifestyle are effective factors in increasing or decreasing these infections.

The Distribution of Intestinal Parasites in Patients Presenting to a University Hospital in Istanbul: A Seven-year Retrospective Analysis

The purpose of this study was to determine the intestinal parasite distributions in patients who applied to the Parasitology Laboratory of Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, Cerrahpaşa Medical Faculty, by evaluating the parasites retrospectively. Normal saline and stool lugol were applied for direct examination of stool samples that were sent for parasite examination; cellophane band samples were evaluated microscopically. The samples suspected to have protozoa were evaluated using modified acid fast and trichrome staining methods. We evaluated the parasitological examination results of patients who applied to our laboratory between January 2012 and December 2018. A total of 2.96% of the 20,948 patients who applied had parasites in their faeces. Blastocystis spp. was detected at the highest rate (63.23%), followed by Giardia intestinalis (17.26%), Enterobius vermicularis (12.58%), Taenia saginata (2.42%), Cryptosporidium spp. (1.94%) and Entamoeba histolytica/dispar (1.45%). Although the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections has decreased when compared to previous years, it still remains important. For this reason, solving infrastructure problems, providing information on personal hygiene and sanitation rules are among the most important tasks needed to reduce the prevalence of intestinal parasites.

Intestinal Parasitoses among Chepang and Musahar Community People of Makwanpur and Nawalparasi Districts of Nepal.

Intestinal parasitosis is one of the commonly perceived serious problems often observed in children leading to high mortality. The objective of the study was to identify the intestinal parasites and study their prevalence in the two mostly disadvantaged communities (Musahar and Chepang) of Nepal. This was a cross-sectional study conducted in the Musahar and Chepang communities of Nepal from April to October 2019. A total of 205 random stool samples were collected in dry, clean and screw-capped plastic containers and mixed with 2.5% potassium dichromate solution. A pre-structured questionnaire was used to collect data on predisposing factors. The laboratory examination of the stool samples was done by direct microscopy and further confirmed by concentration methods (formalin ether sedimentation technique and flotation technique using Sheather's sugar solution), and modified acid-fast staining. Detection of eggs of Enterobius vermicularis was done by cellophane tape method. The overall prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection was found to be 36.6%, with a similar prevalence in the Chepangs (39.8%) and in the Musahars (33.3%) (P > 0.05). The most predominant helminth was Ascaris lumbricoides (15.6%), while the most prevalent protozoan was Entamoeba histolytica/dispar (5.4%). The study also assessed a significant association between the prevalence of parasites with socio-demographic factors, types of drinking water consumption and sanitation habits of the people (P < 0.05). The findings of the study suggest a need for formulating effective preventive and control strategies against intestinal parasitic infections along with the continuity of mass deworming program.