Trichuris Trichiura Research Articles

Soil-transmitted helminthiases, particularly trichuriasis, affect over 500 million people, mostly in low- and middle-income countries. Traditional diagnostics fail to distinguish between Trichuris species, obscuring transmission patterns and treatment outcomes. Using nanopore-based full-length ITS2 rDNA sequencing, we analyzed 687 samples from Côte d'Ivoire, Laos, Tanzania, and Uganda, confirming the phylogenetic placement of two genetically distinct Trichuris species infecting humans, Trichuris trichiura and the recently described Trichuris incognita. The two Trichuris species reveal divergent geographic patterns and alsopresence in non-human primates, suggesting complex host-parasite dynamics. Within-country genetic variation indicates local adaptation and cryptic population structure. Importantly, we demonstrate that ITS2 fragment length is a robust, cost-effective diagnostic marker for differentiating T. incognita and T. trichiura, offering a practical alternative to sequencing for resource-limited settings. These findings expose the hidden complexity of Trichurisspp. infections and highlight the urgent need to update diagnostic and control strategies to account for overlooked species diversity in endemic regions.

Trichuris trichiura remains a major global public health concern, particularly in low-resource settings where standard anthelmintic regimens are limited. This study evaluated the diagnostic performance of real-time PCR (qPCR) compared to the Kato-Katz (KK) method in assessing the efficacy of a fixed-dose combination (FDC) of albendazole and ivermectin versus albendazole for the treatment of T. trichiura . The study was embedded within the ALIVE clinical trial (NCT05124691), a phase 2/3 trial conducted in Kenya, Mozambique, and Ethiopia. Stool samples were collected at baseline and 21 ± 7 days post-treatment, with KK performed on fresh samples and qPCR on ethanol-preserved aliquots. In total 534 participants were selected based on positive KK and qPCR at baseline and complete data post-treatment. The primary endpoint was cure rate (CR) by KK and qPCR; secondary endpoints included egg reduction rate (ERR) and cycle threshold (Ct) value incrementation rate (CtIR). Additionally, machine learning algorithms were used to predict infection intensity from qPCR Ct-values and demographic variables. qPCR confirmed the superior efficacy of FDC compared to albendazole as previously shown by KK, but discrepancies were observed in CRs between qPCR and KK, particularly lower qPCR CRs for FDC×1 and FDC×3. Concordance between stool egg counts and Ct-value decreased post-treatment, likely due to reduced KK sensitivity in low-intensity infections. ERR and CtIR showed parallel patterns of efficacy across treatment arms. Machine learning models showed good performance for predicting baseline infection intensity. While not interchangeable, qPCR complements KK and enhances the precision of drug efficacy evaluation in helminth clinical trials.

Trichuris trichiura, a soil-transmitted helminth (STH), infection is highly prevalent in children and, if not treated, can cause adverse health consequences. Microscopy using the Kato-Katz method is the mainstay of STH diagnosis in most settings but has low sensitivity. This study aims to quantify prevalence and examine risk factors of trichuriasis among children in a malaria-endemic area. The study recruited 181 children aged <5 years old from a household survey conducted in 16 villages in Timika, Papua, Indonesia, from April to July 2013. Clinical and laboratory data were collected, and stool samples were analysed later using quantitative PCR (qPCR). The prevalence of T. trichiura infections was 13.8% (25/181; 95%CI, 9.1-19.7) by Kato-Katz microscopy examination and 31.5% (57/181; 95%CI, 24.8-38.8) by qPCR analysis, increasing the prevalence by 17.7% (p = 0.0001). Children aged >3 years old had a 3 times increased risk of having trichuriasis compared to younger ones (aOR 3.29 [95%CI, 1.42-7.63], p = 0.006). Children with Hb ≤ 10 g/dL were 2 times more likely to have trichuriasis compared to those with Hb > 10 g/dL, (OR 2.46 [95%CI, 1.14-5.31], p = 0.020). Malaria prevalence was 9.9% (18/181; 95%CI, 6-15.3). Coinfections with malaria increased the risk of anaemia (OR 11.7 [95%CI, 2.0-67.0], p = 0.004. No apparent association was found between trichuriasis and undernutrition (wasting and stunting). The prevalence of trichuriasis in under-five children is underestimated and together with malaria, the infections are associated with anaemia. Public health strategy should include STH prevention targeted to young children living in malaria-endemic areas.

Cockroaches pose significant public health problem due to their ability to mechanically transmit human intestinal parasites and other disease-causing micro-organisms. Hence this study was carried out to assess the prevalence and distribution of intestinal parasites associated with cockroaches in Anambra State, Nigeria. Cockroaches were trapped live, using sterile jars baited with pieces of bread soaked in a small amount of beer for 12 consecutive months. The upper portions (inside) of the jars were smeared with a light layer of petroleum jelly (Vaseline®) to hinder the cockroaches from escaping. The collected cockroaches were examined for the presence of human intestinal parasites through established parasitological procedures. Overall, 2110 cockroaches (Periplaneta americana, 1498 {70.9%}, Blattella germanica, 277 {13.1%} and Blatta orientalis 335 {15.9%}) were caught from three different sites in the study area. Cockroach abundance and distribution varied with site of collection; the occurrence 1 was significantly higher statistically (P&lt; 0.05) in cockroaches collected from market 911 (43.2%) and residence 652 (30.9%) than hospital 330 (15.9%) and restaurants 217 (10.3%). Parasite species identified and their prevalence were as follows: Entamoeba histolytica 92 (25.8%), Giardia lamblia 50 (14.0%), Ascaris lumbricoides 103 (25.8%), Trichuris trichiura 18 (5.0%), hookworms 25 (7.0%), Enterobius vermicularis 32 (9.0%) and Taenia spp. 37 (10.4%). More parasites were isolated from external surface 211 (59.1%) than in the gut 146 (40.9%). Findings ofthis study indicate a relatively high infectivity rate in the cockroaches. Since this research detected this high rate of intestinal parasites in the cockroaches, their role in disease transmission cannot be over emphasized. Hence, there is need to raise awareness on the need for improved hygiene and sanitation in the state.

Street foods offer affordable, nutritious, and accessible food options for many urban residents in developing countries. Most university students in Bangladesh rely on street foods due to their appealing appearance. However, these foods are often prepared and served under poor hygienic conditions, making them potential sources of parasitic contamination and faeco-oral disease transmission. Considering the increasing demand for these food items among students, a study was carried out on 50 food samples comprising three types of foods: tamarind water of snacks (27 samples), fruit juices (16 samples), and sliced fruits (7 samples), and 50 corresponding fecal samples from vendors of Dhaka University Campus to assess the parasitic contamination in street foods. Food vendors were also asked to fill a questionnaire on their socio-economic and demographic profile and hygienic practices. It was found that 46 (92%) food samples were contaminated with 6 different types of parasites (Blastocystis hominis, Cystoisospora belli, Hymenolepis diminuta, Hymenolepis nana, Ascaris lumbricoides, and Trichuris trichiura); their prevalence ranged between 4% and 48%. Besides, 92% of vendors were infected with 7 different parasites; the highest prevalence was observed for B. hominis (66%). Out of 4 identified parasites in food and corresponding stool samples, B. hominis (40%) was the most prevalent parasite, followed by C. belli (32%), A. lumbricoides (26%), and H. nana (2%). Fisher’s exact tests revealed that there was a significant association between the presence of B. hominis (p=0.002) and C. belli (p=0.001) in stool and its presence in food. We also found a significant association (at 5% significant level) between the presence of C. belli in food and the water sterilization practice of the food vendors (p-value=0.03). The study shows the serious health risks resulting from poor hygiene practices. So, we need to take immediate action to mitigate the significant public health risks, particularly those who consume street food in the area. Bangladesh J. Zool. 53(2): 201-208, 2025

Helminthiasis is a disease caused by parasitic worms that infect the human body. Transmission can occur through contaminated food and water, as well as through skin penetration via soil as the intermediate medium. Soil-Transmitted Helminths (STH) are a group of parasitic worms transmitted through soil and can cause infections, particularly among populatihons with poor hygiene, including waste collectors. This study aims to describe the findings of STH egg examinations from fecal and nail samples using the flotation method among waste collectors. Samples were collected using purposive sampling from waste collectors at TPS 3R Padangsambian based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. This descriptive study employed a qualitative approach. Data analysis was conducted descriptively, and the examination results were presented in tables and narratively explained using univariate analysis to illustrate the frequency and percentage distribution of each research variable. A total of 11 respondents participated in the examination. Fecal and nail specimens were analyzed using the flotation method at the Parasitology and Mycology Laboratory of STIKES Wira Medika Bali. The results showed that 6 fecal samples (54.6%) were positive for STH eggs, while 5 samples (45.5%) were negative. In nail samples, 1 sample (9.1%) tested positive and 10 samples (90.9%) were negative. The identified worm species included Ascaris lumbricoides and Trichuris trichiura. Examination of fecal samples was found to be more effective than nail samples; however, nail examination can serve as an additional detection method for individuals at high risk of STH exposure.

BackgroundIntestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) remain a major public health concern in low-income settings where sanitation and hygiene are inadequate. Schoolchildren are among the most vulnerable groups, yet limited data exist on the prevalence and determinants of IPIs in Afghanistan. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of IPIs and identify associated factors among schoolchildren in Jalalabad city.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted between May and October 2023 among 603 students aged 6–15 years from eight randomly selected schools in Jalalabad. Stool samples were examined using direct microscopy and the formalin–ether concentration technique. Demographic and behavioral data were collected using structured questionnaires. Logistic regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with IPIs.ResultsThe prevalence of IPIs was 48.8% (294/603). The most frequently detected parasites were Giardia lamblia (35.8%), Entamoeba histolytica (34.3%), Hymenolepis nana (22.5%), Ascaris lumbricoides (5.3%), Enterobius vermicularis (1.8%), and Trichuris trichiura (0.3%). Multivariable analysis identified significant associations with older age (13–15 years) (AOR: 3.22; 95% CI: 1.70–6.10), frequent street food consumption (AOR: 2.45; 95% CI: 1.30–4.58), poor handwashing after toilet use (AOR: 5.37; 95% CI: 2.34–12.31), poor handwashing before eating (AOR: 6.65; 95% CI: 3.89–11.37), never washing hands upon returning home (AOR: 4.52; 95% CI: 2.66–7.67), consumption of unwashed raw vegetables and fruits (AOR: 28.83; 95% CI: 5.50–151.03), and poor nail hygiene (AOR: 5.11; 95% CI: 2.16–12.11).ConclusionsNearly half of the schoolchildren in Jalalabad were infected with intestinal parasites, indicating a substantial public health burden. Targeted interventions—including hygiene education, improved sanitation, and regular school-based deworming programs—are urgently needed to reduce the risk of infection in this population.

Human gastrointestinal nematodes (GINs) infect at least one billion people, mostly children, with five billion people at risk of infection. Reduced and low efficacy of currently used anthelmintics, e.g., benzimidazoles against Trichuris trichiura whipworms, urges new anthelmintics to control these parasites. We previously discovered two human pan-PIM kinase inhibitors, CX-6258 and SGI-1776, with potent antihelmintic activity against GINs. Here, structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies were conducted to identify SGI-1776 analogs with improved cross-clade adulticidal activity (Ancylostoma ceylanicum hookworms and Trichuris muris whipworms). We further identified a new chemical series from 15 (imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide) and novel derivatives from it. Differential cuticle permeability, quantified by the amount of bioaccumulated drugs, explained some unexpected observations regarding activity and correlated with their physicochemical properties. The compounds' physical properties were significantly predictive of their activity. 15 and 51 were the most potent against whipworm and showed decreased and no activity against human PIM kinases, suggesting increased selectivity against the GIN counterparts. The unexpected SAR of compound 15 can be explained by computational modeling. We demonstrate the efficacy of optimized compound 50 as a new oral anthelmintic, which demonstrated better gut restriction properties and significantly reduced the fecundity of T. muris whipworm adults in infected mice. We also report our findings on physicochemical properties and gut restriction ADME parameters that are essential for further lead optimization.

Malaria and soil-transmitted helminths (STHs) infections continue to be public health burden in Cameroon. This study investigates the prevalence, severity and impact of Malaria and soil-transmitted helminth infections on haemoglobin levels among armed forces in the North West and South West Regions of Cameroon. This cross-sectional study enrolled 812 male participants in the military camps of the North West and South West regions of Cameroon. Questionnaire survey was used to document participants demographic and clinical data. Venous blood was collected and used for testing malaria parasitaemia by microscopy as well as measurement of haemoglobin (Hb) levels using an Hb metre. Also, the direct smear method and Kato-Katz technique were used to detect intestinal parasites amongst the participants. The study identified two Plasmodium species, Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax, with an overall prevalence of 13.6%. Equally, Loa loa microfilaria was identified during the study with a prevalence of 0.2% (2/812). Five intestinal helminthic species were also identified, including Ascaris lumbricoides, Trichuris trichiura, hookworms, Schistosoma mansoni, and Schistosoma intercalatum. Two intestinal protozoan species, Entamoebacoli and Entamoeba histolytica were recorded. The overall prevalence of intestinal parasites was 22.8%. Plasmodium falciparum was the most prevalent parasite with 86.6% of infected participants having mild malaria. The parasitic density was significant across age groups. Malaria parasites, Trichuris trichiura and Schistosoma mansoni significantly affected the mean Hb concentration level. Malaria and intestinal helminths remain public health issues in Cameroon, affecting haemoglobin levels. Asymptomatic malaria and intestinal helminthic carriers are transmission agents, necessitating government consideration to eradicate or limit transmission rates.

Cecal Trichuris trichiura infection discovered by colonoscopy.

BackgroundIn Guinea, N’Zérékoré region has historically been endemic for both Schistosoma mansoni and S. haematobium. Following eight years of mass treatment with praziquantel to treat schistosomiasis, as part of a multi-country project, the country was selected to pilot the Schistosomiasis Practical and Precision Assessment (SPPA) approach. The SPPA pilot was conducted in five health districts in the forest region. The main objectives were to determine the current infection status and treatment strategy for each health sub-district and to evaluate the feasibility of the SPPA approach.Methodology/Principal findingsA cross-sectional study among children aged 10–14 years of age was conducted. In each health district, a systematic sample of 15 schools were selected with 32 school children selected randomly from each. Stool and urine samples were collected from each child. Two Kato-Katz slides were examined for S. mansoni and soil transmitted helminthiasis (STH) and one urine filtration slide and one hemastix for S. haematobium infections and microhaematuria, respectively.Of the 2400 children targeted for inclusion, 2325 provided samples (96.9%). The combined prevalence of Schistosoma species across the five health districts was 66.4%. S. mansoni had a high prevalence of 66.1% with four health districts above 50%. S. haematobium had a low prevalence of 4.3%. The overall prevalence of any combined STH (Ascaris lumbricoides, Trichuris trichiura or hookworm) was 11.7%. Sex, age and contact with a freshwater body during the last week before the survey, were not statistically significant in their association with schistosomiasis.ConclusionThe results of the SPPA indicate that schistosomiasis remains homogeneously high across all five health districts. Consequently, it is recommended to maintain annual treatment in each sub-health district, and to extend treatment to whole communities aged two years of age and over, while strengthening critical cross-sectoral interventions such as behaviour change and environmental management.

In Guinea, N'Zérékoré region has historically been endemic for both Schistosoma mansoni and S. haematobium. Following eight years of mass treatment with praziquantel to treat schistosomiasis, as part of a multi-country project, the country was selected to pilot the Schistosomiasis Practical and Precision Assessment (SPPA) approach. The SPPA pilot was conducted in five health districts in the forest region. The main objectives were to determine the current infection status and treatment strategy for each health sub-district and to evaluate the feasibility of the SPPA approach. A cross-sectional study among children aged 10-14 years of age was conducted. In each health district, a systematic sample of 15 schools were selected with 32 school children selected randomly from each. Stool and urine samples were collected from each child. Two Kato-Katz slides were examined for S. mansoni and soil transmitted helminthiasis (STH) and one urine filtration slide and one hemastix for S. haematobium infections and microhaematuria, respectively. Of the 2400 children targeted for inclusion, 2325 provided samples (96.9%). The combined prevalence of Schistosoma species across the five health districts was 66.4%. S. mansoni had a high prevalence of 66.1% with four health districts above 50%. S. haematobium had a low prevalence of 4.3%. The overall prevalence of any combined STH (Ascaris lumbricoides, Trichuris trichiura or hookworm) was 11.7%. Sex, age and contact with a freshwater body during the last week before the survey, were not statistically significant in their association with schistosomiasis. The results of the SPPA indicate that schistosomiasis remains homogeneously high across all five health districts. Consequently, it is recommended to maintain annual treatment in each sub-health district, and to extend treatment to whole communities aged two years of age and over, while strengthening critical cross-sectoral interventions such as behaviour change and environmental management.

Background. Intestinal parasitic infections are a global problem in humans, especially in developing countries. Indonesia has an intestinal parasitic infection prevalence rate of 45-65%. Intestinal parasitic infections are caused by helminths, namely Ascaris lumbricoides, Hookworms, Trichuris trichiura, and protozoa. The mode of transmission is ingestion of eggs or other infective forms. Nails are the body part that transmits infective forms of intestinal parasites orally. Scavengers work to sort garbage and have contact with the ground with a high risk of intestinal parasite infection. Objective. To determine the relationship between nail hygiene and the incidence of intestinal parasitic infections in waste pickers at Terjun landfill. Methods. Observational analytic research design with cross sectional method. Primary data was obtained from 121 waste pickers by interviewing based on questionnaires, collecting nails and feces in Terjun Village, Medan Marelan District. Samples were examined using a light microscope with 100x and 400x magnification at the Parasitology Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine, University of North Sumatra. Results. Four intestinal parasites were found in the nails and 18 intestinal parasites in the feces of scavengers. There were 95 people (78.5%) with healthy nails and 74 people (66.8%) with poor hand hygiene. Conclusion. There is a relationship between hand hygiene and nail health with a p value of 0.000. There is a relationship between nail hygiene and infection

Background: Soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections—caused by Ascaris lumbricoides, Trichuris trichiura, and hookworms—affect over 1.5 billion people worldwide. These infections exacerbate undernutrition through blood loss, nutrient malabsorption, and impaired appetite. Objectives: To evaluate the relationship between STH infections and nutritional deficits, including anaemia, micronutrient deficiencies, growth impairments, and cognitive outcomes, and assess the effectiveness of deworming interventions. Methods: Literature search in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and EMBASE (2007–2023). Data synthesized narratively; a meta-analysis performed for haemoglobin outcomes. Results: 19 studies included. Hookworm infection strongly associated with iron-deficiency anaemia (pooled mean difference: −0.78 g/dL). Other helminths contributed to reduced micronutrient levels, stunting, and poor cognitive outcomes. Nutritional recovery observed when deworming combined with supplementation and sanitation. Conclusion: STH infections significantly contribute to nutritional deficits, particularly among children. Sustainable control requires integrated deworming, nutrition, sanitation, and education.

Ivermectin-albendazole combination versus ivermectin or albendazole alone in soil transmitted helminthiasis: An updated systematic review and meta-analysis.

5 Soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections remain a significant global health concern due to their high prevalence in many areas and ease of transmission via the fecal-oral route. To control and enhance the declining helminth infection rate in children, Indonesia initiated a nationwide mass drug administration (MDA) in 2017, encompassing rural areas such as Southwest Sumba (SWS). Nevertheless, the prevalence of STH in SWS remained at 54% by 2021. Children are particularly susceptible owing to frequent exposure to helminth-egg-contaminated environments, which may lead to nutrient deficiencies. Therefore, we sought to assess STH prevalence in this post-MDA period and to investigate the impact of STH infection on anemia, nutritional status, and hygiene practices among preschool-aged children (PAC) and schoolaged children (SAC) in Hameli Ate and Homba Karipit Villages, North Kodi District. A total of 223 stool samples were examined using the Kato-Katz technique, revealing an overall STH prevalence of 58.3%, with the majority of children exhibiting light infections (Ascaris lumbricoides: 37.7%; Trichuris trichiura: 26.5%). Infection rates were notably higher in younger SAC (26.6%; 34/128) and older SAC (40%; 10/25) compared to PAC (21.1%; 8/38) groups. Despite this, 67.9% of the children had normal nutritional status, and 61.5% were found to be non-anemic. There was a significant correlation between maternal education and STH infections (OR = 0.4; 95%CI = 0.2-0.79; p = 0.016). A highly educated mother would improve children's hygiene, subsequently contribute to the reduction of infection severity and enhance the child's health. Altogether, our findings indicate the high burden of STH infection on children in this rural area. Thus, this study emphasize the importance of the re-evaluation of the MDA program and improvement of hygiene facilities, such as clean water and sanitation, to mitigate disease risk and promote children's health.

A parasitological study was conducted on wastewater passing through the Boribana collector, located in the commune of Attecoube (District of Abidjan, CotedIvoire), to assess its helminth egg load. Samples were collected from November 2015 to May 2016 at four sites distributed along the collector. The analysis identified fourteen (14) helminth taxa belonging to three classes: Nematodes (7 taxa), Trematodes (4 taxa) and Cestodes (3 taxa). Nematodes were found to be the most diverse. The most frequently detected species were Ascaris lumbricoides, Trichuris trichiura and Taenia sp., with Ascaris lumbricoides also being the most abundant species. The average helminth egg concentration ranged from 9.53 eggs/L (station D) to 146.15 eggs/L (site A). A peak in parasite load was observed during the local rainy season, suggesting a significant seasonal influence on parasitic contamination of wastewater.

Helminthiases remain a significant global health concern, affecting both the Global South and increasingly the Global North. In Slovakia, intestinal parasitic infections impact marginalised populations, particularly the population of Roma inhabitants, who often face inadequate housing, poor sanitation, and limited access to clean water. This study examines the prevalence of intestinal parasites in the “Hungry Valleys”, an economically challenged region of eastern Slovakia, with a higher number of Roma inhabitants. A total of 3816 stool samples were analysed using sedimentation methods, revealing an overall positivity rate of 5.06%. The highest prevalence was found among Roma inhabitants, with 23 times higher chance for infection than non-Roma inhabitants, rural residents, and children under 18. The most common parasites were Ascaris lumbricoides and Trichuris trichiura. Statistical analyses revealed strong associations between infection rates and factors such as density of the population of Roma inhabitants and inadequate access to water. Risk maps created in QGIS identified areas of high transmission. These findings highlight the urgent need for targeted public health interventions, especially in vulnerable Roma communities. Integrating spatial analysis with epidemiological data can guide more effective prevention efforts. Addressing structural inequalities is key to reducing the burden of parasitic diseases in marginalised populations.

This study investigated the role of cockroaches, Periplaneta americana, and Blattella germanica species as mechanical vector hosts for intestinal parasites in Sana'a City, Yemen, from May to August 2022. Three hundred sixty-five cockroach samples were systematically collected from various sites, including markets, garbage disposal areas, and butcher shops in designated regions. These samples were accurately examined for parasites on their external surfaces. Out of the 365 samples, 198 (54.24%) were infected with a variety of parasites, including protozoa, eggs, and larvae of nematodes. This investigation revealed the presence of nine distinct parasite species on the external surfaces of cockroaches, including three species of protozoan cysts and six species of helminths. Specifically, the identified parasites were Entamoeba coli (69, 60%), Entamoeba histolytica/dispar (61, 58%), Giardia lamblia (56, 53%), Ascaris lumbricoides (45, 31%), Hymenolepis nana (42, 35%), Enterobius vermicularis (23, 17%), hookworm (9, 6%), Trichuris trichiura (7, 3%), and Strongyloides stercoralis (2, 1%) of P. americana and B. germanica. The dominant parasite among the samples was E. coli (69, 60.%), whereas S. stercoralis (2, 1%) exhibited the lowest prevalence among the cockroaches collected. Noqum and Assafi'yah zones showed the highest numbers of infected cockroaches, with 71% and 63%, respectively, while the lowest numbers were obtained from Al-Kuwait Hospital (5%). To improve understanding in this area, further investigations would be required to isolate and identify parasites from diverse cockroach specimens' internal (digestive tract) and external surfaces.

Efficacy and safety of ascending doses of orodispersible ivermectin co-administered with albendazole for Trichuris trichiura infections in preschool-aged children in Tanzania: a single-blind, randomised, controlled, dose-ranging, phase 2 trial.