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Eskandari S, Rashidimehr A, Mohammadi-Nasrabadi F, Mortazavi Moghadam FAS, Esfarjani F. Fresh Leafy Vegetables and Parasitic Contamination: Practical Solutions. Foodborne Pathog Dis 2024. [PMID: 38625020 DOI: 10.1089/fpd.2023.0148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/17/2024] Open
Abstract
This study aimed at investigating the parasitic contamination of fresh leafy vegetables in Tehran, Iran, during 2020-2021. A cross-sectional study was conducted and 180 fresh leafy vegetables (including leek, watercress, mint, spring onion, radish, basil, parsley, lettuce, and spinach) were collected randomly in the five regions of Tehran, Iran. Each 200-g sample was soaked with tap water containing detergent, and the obtained sediment was centrifuged and examined for parasitic stages using a light microscope. The overall rate of parasitic contamination was 19.4%, with Trichostrongylus and Toxocara eggs being the most prevalent parasites (3.9%) and the highest rate of parasitic contamination was observed in spinach (40%), whereas no contamination was found in spring onions. Except for radish, other vegetable samples had multiple parasitic infections. Due to the contamination of vegetables, it is necessary to have a suitable method to reduce the parasites. Consequently, policymakers should safeguard public health by consistently monitoring contaminants in food and prioritizing education and research on methods to mitigate their presence in the food chain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soheyl Eskandari
- Department of Food Science, School of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Food and Drug Laboratory Research Center, Tehran, Iran
| | - Azadeh Rashidimehr
- Department of Microbiology and Food Hygiene, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Lorestan University, Khorramabad, Lorestan, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Mohammadi-Nasrabadi
- Department of Food and Nutrition Policy and Planning Research, National Nutrition and Food Technology Research Institute, Faculty of Nutrition Sciences and Food Technology, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Faiza Al-Sadat Mortazavi Moghadam
- Department of Food and Nutrition Policy and Planning Research, National Nutrition and Food Technology Research Institute, Faculty of Nutrition Sciences and Food Technology, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Esfarjani
- Department of Food and Nutrition Policy and Planning Research, National Nutrition and Food Technology Research Institute, Faculty of Nutrition Sciences and Food Technology, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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2
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El Safadi D, Osman M, Hanna A, Hajar I, Kassem II, Khalife S, Dabboussi F, Hamze M. Parasitic Contamination of Fresh Leafy Green Vegetables Sold in Northern Lebanon. Pathogens 2023; 12:1014. [PMID: 37623974 PMCID: PMC10459145 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12081014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Contaminated, raw or undercooked vegetables can transmit parasitic infections. Here, we investigated parasitic contamination of leafy green vegetables sold in local markets in the Tripoli district, Lebanon, during two consecutive autumn seasons (2020-2021). The study involved the microscopic examination of 300 samples of five different types of vegetables (60 samples per type) and used standardized qualitative parasitological techniques for some protozoa and helminths. The results showed that 16.7% (95% interval for p: 12.6%, 21.4%) (50/300) of the vegetable samples were contaminated with at least one parasite. The most frequently detected parasite was Blastocystis spp. (8.7%; 26/300); this was followed in frequency by Ascaris spp. (3.7%; 11/300). Among the different vegetable types, lettuce (23.3%; 14/60) was the most contaminated, while arugula was the least contaminated (11.7%; 7/60). The statistical analysis did not reveal any significant association between the prevalence of parasitic contamination and the investigated risk factors, which included collection date, vegetable type, market storage status, and wetness of vegetables at the time of purchase (p > 0.05). The high prevalence of parasitic contamination also suggested the potential presence of other microbial pathogens. These findings are important because leafy green vegetables are preferentially and heavily consumed raw in Lebanon. Thus, implementing effective measures that target the farm-to-fork continuum is recommended in order to reduce the spread of intestinal pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dima El Safadi
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool L7 8XZ, UK;
- Laboratoire Microbiology, Santé et Environnement, Doctoral School of Sciences and Technology, Faculty of Public Health, Lebanese University, Tripoli 1300, Lebanon; (A.H.); (I.H.); (F.D.); (M.H.)
| | - Marwan Osman
- Cornell Atkinson Center for Sustainability, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
- Department of Public and Ecosystem Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Angel Hanna
- Laboratoire Microbiology, Santé et Environnement, Doctoral School of Sciences and Technology, Faculty of Public Health, Lebanese University, Tripoli 1300, Lebanon; (A.H.); (I.H.); (F.D.); (M.H.)
| | - Iman Hajar
- Laboratoire Microbiology, Santé et Environnement, Doctoral School of Sciences and Technology, Faculty of Public Health, Lebanese University, Tripoli 1300, Lebanon; (A.H.); (I.H.); (F.D.); (M.H.)
| | - Issmat I. Kassem
- Center for Food Safety, Department of Food Science and Technology, University of Georgia, Griffin, GA 30223, USA;
| | - Sara Khalife
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Beirut Arab University, Tripoli 1300, Lebanon;
| | - Fouad Dabboussi
- Laboratoire Microbiology, Santé et Environnement, Doctoral School of Sciences and Technology, Faculty of Public Health, Lebanese University, Tripoli 1300, Lebanon; (A.H.); (I.H.); (F.D.); (M.H.)
| | - Monzer Hamze
- Laboratoire Microbiology, Santé et Environnement, Doctoral School of Sciences and Technology, Faculty of Public Health, Lebanese University, Tripoli 1300, Lebanon; (A.H.); (I.H.); (F.D.); (M.H.)
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3
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Pathogenic parasites in vegetables in the Middle East and North Africa: Occurrence of Ascaris eggs and Giardia cysts, and epidemiological implications. Food Control 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodcont.2022.109323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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4
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Global prevalence of intestinal protozoan contamination in vegetables and fruits: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Food Control 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodcont.2021.108656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
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Luqman M, Awan MUF, Muhammad S, Daud S, Yousafzai A, Arooj F. Microbial pollution in inland recreational freshwaters of Quetta, Pakistan: an initial report. JOURNAL OF WATER AND HEALTH 2022; 20:575-588. [PMID: 35350009 DOI: 10.2166/wh.2022.291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Parasitic contamination of surface waters, especially recreational waters, is a serious problem for under-developed nations like Pakistan, where numerous outbreaks of parasitic diseases are reported each year. In the current study, parasitic presence in two surface waters (Hanna Lake and Wali-Tangi Dam) of Quetta was monitored quarterly for 1 year. The methodology involved the pre-concentration of the water samples and the subsequent preparation for the microscopic search of parasites. Physico-chemical and bacteriological variables were also studied. Wet staining, modified Trichrome staining, and modified acid-fast staining methods were used to identify various parasitic forms (cysts, oocysts, eggs, trophozoites). Collectively 11 parasitic elements (10 in Lake and 8 in Dam) belonging to 10 species were recorded, many of which are potential human pathogens. The species identified include Trichomonas sp., Isospora sp., Balantidium coli, Cryptosporidium sp., Entamoeba spp., amoebas, Microsporidium sp., Endolimax nana, Ascaris lumbricoides, and Giardia spp. Parasitic contamination remained persistent in both locations throughout the year independent of physico-chemical parameters (temperature, EC, pH, turbidity, and DO) and bacterial concentration of water. Reliance on bacterial presence for monitoring of recreational waters can be a risk for tourists. Entamoeba spp. and A. lumbricoides may be used for surface water monitoring in these waters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Luqman
- Department of Environment Sciences, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Outfall Road, Lahore, Pakistan E-mail:
| | | | - Sohaib Muhammad
- Department of Botany, Government College University, Kachehry Road, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Shakeela Daud
- Department of Biotechnology, BUITEMS, Baleli Road, Quetta, Pakistan
| | - Asma Yousafzai
- Department of Biotechnology, BUITEMS, Baleli Road, Quetta, Pakistan
| | - Fariha Arooj
- Department of Environment Sciences, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Outfall Road, Lahore, Pakistan E-mail:
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Ysea MAV, Umaña MC, Fuentes SP, Campos IV, Carmona MC. Standardization of molecular techniques for the detection and characterization of intestinal protozoa and other pathogens in humans. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2022; 28:e20210099. [PMID: 35574288 PMCID: PMC9084511 DOI: 10.1590/1678-9199-jvatitd-2021-0099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Idalia Valerio Campos
- University of Medical Sciences, Costa Rica; University of Medical Sciences, Costa Rica
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7
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Suleiman Mohammed A, Abd Alla A, Galander A, Elfaki T, Ibrahim Hashim A, N. Altayb H. Frequency of parasitic infections in Arachishypogaea L (groundnuts), Citrulluslanatus seeds (watermelon seeds), and Ziziphusspina-christi (nabag) sold by street vendors in Khartoum State, Sudan: a cross-sectional study. F1000Res 2021; 10:586. [PMID: 35284061 PMCID: PMC8886169 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.53682.3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Plant products, including seeds are an important source of vitamins, minerals, proteins, and energy. This study aimed to assess parasitic contaminations in roasted groundnuts, nabag, and tasali (watermelon seeds) sold by street vendors in Khartoum State, Sudan. Methods: The frequency of parasitic contaminations among all crop products was detected by washing the plants with saline, and then conducting an examination using a formal ether concentration technique (FECT), followed by a saturated sugar floatation technique. Results: The detected parasites belonged to two species: Entamoeba histolytica (33.3%) and Giardia lamblia (15.6%). No helminthic parasites were detected. Mixed contamination of the mentioned parasites was also observed (11.1%). The most contaminated crop was nabag, followed by groundnut, and finally tasali. Conclusion: No relation was established between the positivity of samples for parasites and crop type, Khartoum State city, or seller sex. FECT was more sensitive than the saturated sugar floatation technique as a detection method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arwa Suleiman Mohammed
- Parasitology and Medical Entomology, Sudan University of Science and Technology, Khartoum, Khartoum, 11111, Sudan
| | - Ahmed Abd Alla
- Parasitology and Medical Entomology, Sudan University of Science and Technology, Khartoum, Khartoum, 11111, Sudan
| | - Ahmed Galander
- Parasitology and Medical Entomology, Sudan University of Science and Technology, Khartoum, Khartoum, 11111, Sudan
| | - Tayseer Elfaki
- Parasitology and Medical Entomology, Sudan University of Science and Technology, Khartoum, Khartoum, 11111, Sudan
| | - Ahmed Ibrahim Hashim
- Microbiology, Sudan University of Science and Technology, Khartoum, Khartoum, 11111, Sudan
| | - Hisham N. Altayb
- Biochemistry, College of science, King Abdulaziz University,, King Abdulaziz University, Gedda, Gedda, Saudi Arabia
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8
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Bahramian B, Afshari A, Kiani B, Sani MA, Hashemi M. The prevalence of foodborne parasites in raw vegetables in Iran: a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH SCIENCE & ENGINEERING 2021; 19:2027-2045. [PMID: 34900321 PMCID: PMC8617144 DOI: 10.1007/s40201-021-00714-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/10/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Foodborne parasites in raw vegetables could cause parasitic infections in humans. An effective approach to the reduction of pathogenic microorganisms in vegetables involves identifying the main sources of contamination and the ecology of the involved microorganisms. This review aimed to evaluate the prevalence of foodborne parasites in raw vegetables in Iran. According to the reviewed studies, the prevalence rate of Ascaris spp., Giardia spp., Toxocara spp., Fasciola, Trichuris, Cryptosporidium, Dicrocoeliasis, Taenia spp., and Entamoeba histolytica was 6 % (95 % CI: 5-8 %), 6 % (95 % CI: 5-7 %), 6 % (95 % CI: 4-7 %), 2 % (95 % CI: 1-2 %), 1 % (95 % CI: 1-2 %), 10 % (95 % CI: 6-15 %), 2 % (95 % CI: 1-3 %), 5 % (95 % CI: 4-6 %), and 3 % (95 % CI: 2-4 %), respectively. According to the standard deviation map, Ilam province was one of the high-risk areas in terms of food-borne parasites in raw vegetables (3 SD < prevalence < 4 SD). Given the key role of raw vegetables in human parasitic contamination, governments must implement more stringent programs for effective wastewater treatment, preventing domestic and wild animals from entering farms, not using human and animal manure on farms, using ready-to-eat packaged vegetables, food safety training for households, implementation of GMP and HACCP in the factory vegetable packaging are required in this regard, especially in the high-risk areas of Iran, such as Ilam province. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40201-021-00714-w.
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Affiliation(s)
- Behnam Bahramian
- Medical Toxicology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Asma Afshari
- Medical Toxicology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Behzad Kiani
- Department of Medical Informatics, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mahmood Alizadeh Sani
- Division of Food Safety and Hygiene, Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hashemi
- Medical Toxicology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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9
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Suleiman Mohammed A, Abd Alla A, Galander A, Elfaki T, Ibrahim Hashim A, N. Altayb H. Frequency of parasitic infections in Arachishypogaea L (groundnuts), Citrulluslanatus seeds (watermelon seeds), and Ziziphusspina-christi (nabag) sold by street vendors in Khartoum State, Sudan: a cross-sectional study. F1000Res 2021; 10:586. [PMID: 35284061 PMCID: PMC8886169 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.53682.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 09/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Plant products, including seeds are an important source of vitamins, minerals, proteins, and energy. This study aimed to assess parasitic contaminations in roasted groundnuts, nabag, and tasali (watermelon seeds) sold by street vendors in Khartoum State, Sudan. Methods: The frequency of parasitic contaminations among all crop products was detected by washing the plants with saline, and then conducting an examination using a formal ether concentration technique (FECT), followed by a saturated sugar floatation technique. Results: The detected parasites belonged to two species: Entamoeba histolytica (33.3%) and Giardia lamblia (15.6%). No helminthic parasites were detected. Mixed contamination of the mentioned parasites was also observed (11.1%). The most contaminated crop was nabag, followed by groundnut, and finally tasali. Conclusion: No relation was established between the positivity of samples for parasites and crop type, Khartoum State city, or seller sex. FECT was more sensitive than the saturated sugar floatation technique as a detection method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arwa Suleiman Mohammed
- Parasitology and Medical Entomology, Sudan University of Science and Technology, Khartoum, Khartoum, 11111, Sudan
| | - Ahmed Abd Alla
- Parasitology and Medical Entomology, Sudan University of Science and Technology, Khartoum, Khartoum, 11111, Sudan
| | - Ahmed Galander
- Parasitology and Medical Entomology, Sudan University of Science and Technology, Khartoum, Khartoum, 11111, Sudan
| | - Tayseer Elfaki
- Parasitology and Medical Entomology, Sudan University of Science and Technology, Khartoum, Khartoum, 11111, Sudan
| | - Ahmed Ibrahim Hashim
- Microbiology, Sudan University of Science and Technology, Khartoum, Khartoum, 11111, Sudan
| | - Hisham N. Altayb
- Biochemistry, College of science, King Abdulaziz University,, King Abdulaziz University, Gedda, Gedda, Saudi Arabia
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10
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Borhani M, Fathi S, Darabi E, Jalousian F, Simsek S, Ahmed H, Kesik HK, Hosseini SH, Romig T, Harandi MF, Mobedi I. Echinococcoses in Iran, Turkey, and Pakistan: Old Diseases in the New Millennium. Clin Microbiol Rev 2021; 34:e0029020. [PMID: 34076492 PMCID: PMC8262809 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00290-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Echinococcosis is considered a cosmopolitan zoonosis caused by different species of small taeniid tapeworms of the genus Echinococcus and is regarded as a neglected zoonosis. Cystic and alveolar echinococcoses are endemic diseases of Tibetan, Pamir, and Iranian plateaus. All of the countries within the Iranian plateau are affected by echinococcosis. Pakistan, Turkey, and Iran are the three most populous countries of the region, in which echinococcosis is highly endemic. The three neighboring countries share strong cultural and socioeconomic ties. The present study aimed to provide a broad review of the status of cystic and alveolar echinococcosis, summarizing the current knowledge about geographical distribution, molecular epidemiology, and transmission dynamics of Echinococcus granulosus sensu lato and Echinococcus multilocularis in this region. Additionally, we aimed to understand disease burden and risk factors as basic requirements for establishing a surveillance system and planning prevention and control programs. A considerable body of information is available on different aspects of echinococcosis in this region; however, several information and research gaps need to be filled before planning control programs. None of the countries in the region have an elaborate echinococcosis control program. Effective control programs require multi/intersectoral coordination within a One Health approach with a long-term political and administrative commitment and enhanced international collaboration among the three countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehdi Borhani
- Research Center for Hydatid Disease in Iran, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Saeid Fathi
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Enayat Darabi
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Jalousian
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sami Simsek
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Firat, Elazig, Turkey
| | - Haroon Ahmed
- Department of Biosciences, COMSATS University Islamabad (CUI), Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Harun Kaya Kesik
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bingol, Bingol, Turkey
| | - Seyed Hossein Hosseini
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Thomas Romig
- Parasitology Unit, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Majid Fasihi Harandi
- Research Center for Hydatid Disease in Iran, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Iraj Mobedi
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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11
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Hajipour N, Soltani M, Ketzis J, Hassanzadeh P. Zoonotic parasitic organisms on vegetables: Impact of production system characteristics on presence, prevalence on vegetables in northwestern Iran and washing methods for removal. Food Microbiol 2021; 95:103704. [PMID: 33397622 DOI: 10.1016/j.fm.2020.103704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2020] [Revised: 11/26/2020] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Fresh vegetables are essential components of a healthy and nutritious diet, but if consumed raw without proper washing and/or disinfection, can be important agents of transmission of enteric pathogens. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of zoonotic parasites on vegetables freshly harvested and "ready to eat" vegetables from greengrocers and markets in northwestern Iran. In addition, the effect of cropping system and season on contamination levels were assessed as well as the efficacy of washing procedures to remove parasites from the vegetables. A total of 2757 samples composed of field (n = 1, 600) and "ready to eat" (n = 1157) vegetables were analyzed. Vegetables included leek, parsley, basil, coriander, savory, mint, lettuce, cabbage, radish, dill, spinach, mushroom, carrot, tomato, cucumber and pumpkin. Normal physiological saline washings from 200 g samples were processed using standard parasitological techniques and examined microscopically. A total of 53.14% of vegetable samples obtained from different fields and 18.23% of "ready to eat" vegetables purchased from greengrocers and markets were contaminated with different parasitic organisms including; Entamoeba coli cysts, Giardia intestinalis cysts, Cryptosporidium parvum oocysts, Fasciola hepatica eggs, Dicrocoelium dendriticum eggs, Taenia spp. eggs, Hymenolepis nana eggs, Ancylostoma spp. eggs, Toxocara cati eggs, Toxocara canis eggs, Strongyloides stercoralis larvae, and Ascaris lumbricoides eggs. In both field and "ready to eat" vegetables, the highest parasitic contamination was observed in lettuce with a rate of 91.1% and 55.44%, respectively. The most common parasitic organism was Fasciola hepatica. A seasonal difference in contamination with parasitic organisms was found for field and "ready to eat" vegetables (P < 0.05). There was a significant difference in the recovery of parasitic organisms depending on the washing method with water and dishwashing liquid being the least effective. Proper washing of vegetables is imperative for a healthy diet as the results of this study showed the presence of zoonotic parasites from field and ready to eat vegetables in Iran.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nasser Hajipour
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Maryam Soltani
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran
| | - Jennifer Ketzis
- Biomedical Sciences, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Basseterre, St Kitts, USA.
| | - Parviz Hassanzadeh
- Department of Food Hygiene and Aquatic, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
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12
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Nazarbeigy M, Halajian A, Amadi A. Checklist of digenean trematodes of Iran. VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY- REGIONAL STUDIES AND REPORTS 2021; 24:100571. [PMID: 34024387 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2021.100571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Revised: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/07/2022]
Abstract
Digeneans are an important class of trematodes which infect variety of animals ranging from vertebrates (mainly final hosts) to invertebrates (mainly as intermediate hosts). Additionally, some of these parasites are zoonotic and one health importance. Diversity of digeneans in Iran and reports of several zoonotic cases show the importance of these parasites in this country. This is the checklist of digenean parasites reported from Iran representing a total of 118 species, from 105 genera, 43 families, 21 subfamilies, and 3 orders that are reported from 139 species of different hosts including humans. Some of the most important final number of families, genera, and species reported in Iran fauna include: Fasciolidae, Genus: Fasciola, Fasciola gigantica, Fasciola hepatica, Family: Dicrocoeliidae, Genus: Dicrocoelium, Dicrocoelium dendriticum, Family: Diplostomidae, Genus: Diplostomum, Diplostomum spathaceum, Family: Heterophyidae, Genus: Haplorchis, Haplorchis taichui, Family: Notocotylidae, Genus: Notocotylu, Notocotylus aegyptiacus, Family: Bucephalidae, Genus: Rhipidocotyle, Rhipidocotyle illense.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Nazarbeigy
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Ilam University, Ilam, Iran.
| | - Ali Halajian
- Research and Administration, University of Limpopo, Sovenga 0727, South Africa
| | - Amin Amadi
- Department of Veterinary School of Veterinary Medicine, Ardakan University, Yazd, Iran
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13
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Jansen F, Dorny P, Gabriël S, Dermauw V, Johansen MV, Trevisan C. The survival and dispersal of Taenia eggs in the environment: what are the implications for transmission? A systematic review. Parasit Vectors 2021; 14:88. [PMID: 33514421 PMCID: PMC7845101 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-021-04589-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Taenia spp. are responsible for a substantial health and economic burden in affected populations. Knowledge of the fate of the eggs of Taenia spp. in the environment and of other factors facilitating the transmission of eggs to intermediate hosts is important for the control/elimination of infections caused by Taenia spp. The aim of this systematic review was to summarize current knowledge of the factors influencing the survival and dispersal of Taenia spp. eggs in the environment. Publications retrieved from international databases were systematically reviewed. Of the 1465 papers initially identified, data were ultimately extracted from 93 papers. The results of this systematic review indicate that survival is favoured at moderate temperatures (0–20 °C). Humidity seems to affect the survival of Taenia spp. eggs more than temperature. Under field circumstances, Taenia spp. eggs have been found to survive for up to 1 year. Taenia spp. eggs are commonly found on vegetables (0.9–30%) and in soil and water samples (0–43%), with their presence posing a risk to the consumer. Invertebrates may act as transport hosts, transferring the infection to an intermediate host, but the importance of this route of transmission is still open to question. Wastewater treatment systems are not capable of entirely eliminating Taenia spp. eggs. Access to surface water and the use of sewage sludge as fertilizer on pastures are important risk factors for bovine cysticercosis. Although information on the survival and spread of Taenia spp. eggs is available, in general the data retrieved and reviewed in this article were old, focused on very specific geographical regions and may not be relevant for other areas or not specific for different Taenia spp. Furthermore, it is unknown whether egg survival differs according to Taenia sp. Future studies are necessary to identify sustainable methods to identify and inactivate parasite eggs in the environment and reduce their spread. ![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Famke Jansen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, 155 Nationalestraat, 2000, Antwerp, Belgium.
| | - Pierre Dorny
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, 155 Nationalestraat, 2000, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Sarah Gabriël
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, 133 Salisburylaan, 9820, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Veronique Dermauw
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, 155 Nationalestraat, 2000, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Maria Vang Johansen
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 100 Dyrlægevej, 1870, Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Chiara Trevisan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, 155 Nationalestraat, 2000, Antwerp, Belgium
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Javanmard E, Mirsamadi ES, Olfatifar M, Ghasemi E, Saki F, Mirjalali H, Zali MR, Karanis P. Prevalence of Cryptosporidium and Giardia in vegetables in Iran: a nineteen-years meta-analysis review. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH SCIENCE & ENGINEERING 2020; 18:1629-1641. [PMID: 33312667 PMCID: PMC7721826 DOI: 10.1007/s40201-020-00493-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2019] [Accepted: 06/08/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Cryptosporidium and Giardia are two major protozoa reported from vegetables and environment. The prevalence of these parasites supposes to be different regarding the climate zones. This review aimed to evaluate the prevalence of Cryptosporidium and Giardia in vegetables according to the major climate zones in Iran. The results showed pooled prevalence 7% (95% CI: 2%, 14%) and 4% (95% CI: 3%, 6%) for Cryptosporidium spp., and Giardia spp., respectively. The prevalence of Giardia spp. in mountain, desert and semi-desert, and Mediterranean regions was 4% (95% CI: 2%, 6%), 5% (95% CI: 3%, 8%) and 7% (95% CI: 1%, 18%), respectively. Cryptosporidium spp. was reported 8% (95% CI: 0%, 65%), 6% (95% CI: 0%, 18%) and 4% (95% CI: 0%, 77%) from mountain, desert and semi-desert, and Mediterranean climate zones, respectively. This review suggests the higher prevalence of Giardia and Cryptosporidium in Mediterranean and mountain regions, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ehsan Javanmard
- Foodborne and Waterborne Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Elnaz Sadat Mirsamadi
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Meysam Olfatifar
- Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Erfan Ghasemi
- Department of Biostatistics, Faculty of Paramedical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Saki
- Department of Geography, Faculty of Teacher Education, Farhangian University, Alborz, Iran
| | - Hamed Mirjalali
- Foodborne and Waterborne Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Zali
- Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Panagiotis Karanis
- Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Department of Basic and Clinical Sciences, Nicosia University Medical School, 2408 Nicosia, Cyprus
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15
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Goudarzi F, Mohtasebi S, Teimouri A, Yimam Y, Heydarian P, Salehi Sangani G, Abbaszadeh Afshar MJ. A systematic review and meta-analysis of Hymenolepis nana in human and rodent hosts in Iran: A remaining public health concern. Comp Immunol Microbiol Infect Dis 2020; 74:101580. [PMID: 33260017 DOI: 10.1016/j.cimid.2020.101580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2020] [Revised: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Hymenolepis nana, as a neglected zoonotic helminth, naturally occurs in both humans and rodents. Herein, a systematic review and meta-analysis was carried out to estimate pooled prevalence of H. nana infection among human and rodent hosts for the first time in Iran. PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Embase databases (English articles) and SID and Magiran databases (Persian articles) were systematically searched for relevant studies published from inception till May 24, 2020. Chi2 and I2 index were used to assess the heterogeneity of the included studies. Publication bias was assessed using Egger's intercept and visual inspection of the funnel plot. Pooled prevalence was estimated using random-effects model with 95 % confidence interval (CI) and depicted as a forest plot. STATA software was used for analysis. The overall pooled prevalence estimate of H. nana in humans included 1.2 % (95 % CI = 1.0-1.4%). Subgroup analysis revealed 2.2 % (95 % CI = 1.8-2.6%) and 0.5 % (95 % CI = 0.3 to 0.8 %) of H. nana infection among school children and food handlers, respectively. In terms of rodent hosts, the overall pooled prevalence of H. nana infection included 13 % (95 % CI = 9.3-16.6%). Subgroup analysis revealed the highest rate of the infection was in Rattus spp. (19.6 %; 95 % CI = 10.6-28.6%), a genus with synanthropic behavior. It seems, despite the advancement in sanitation infrastructure and hygiene status, the H. nana infection compares to other helminthic diseases remains a challenging public health problem in Iran.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Goudarzi
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sina Mohtasebi
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Aref Teimouri
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Yonas Yimam
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Woldia University, Woldia, Ethiopia
| | - Peyman Heydarian
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Ghodratollah Salehi Sangani
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mohammad Javad Abbaszadeh Afshar
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Jiroft University of Medical Sciences, Jiroft, Iran.
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Li J, Wang Z, Karim MR, Zhang L. Detection of human intestinal protozoan parasites in vegetables and fruits: a review. Parasit Vectors 2020; 13:380. [PMID: 32727529 PMCID: PMC7392835 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-020-04255-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Accepted: 07/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Diarrheal diseases caused by intestinal protozoan parasites are a major food-borne public health problem across the world. Vegetables and fruits provide important nutrients and minerals, but are also common sources of some food-borne human pathogenic microorganisms. The contamination of raw vegetables and fruits with human pathogenic parasites are now a global public health threat, despite the health benefits of these foods in non-pharmacological prophylaxes against diseases. A large number of reports have documented the contamination of vegetables or fruits with human pathogenic microorganisms. In this paper, we reviewed the contamination and detection methods of human pathogenic intestinal protozoans that are frequently recovered from raw vegetables and fruits. The protozoan parasites include Cryptosporidium spp., Giardia duodenalis, Cyclospora cayetanensis, Entamoeba spp., Toxoplasma gondii, Balantioides coli, Blastocystis sp., Cystoisospora belli and Enterocytozoon bieneusi. The risk factors involved in the contamination of vegetables and fruits with parasites are also assessed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junqiang Li
- Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450046 China
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046 China
| | - Zhenzhen Wang
- Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450046 China
| | - Md Robiul Karim
- Department of Medicine, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural University, Gazipur, 1706 Bangladesh
| | - Longxian Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046 China
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El Bakri A, Hussein NM, Ibrahim ZA, Hasan H, AbuOdeh R. Intestinal Parasite Detection in Assorted Vegetables in the United Arab Emirates. Oman Med J 2020; 35:e128. [PMID: 32550016 PMCID: PMC7276944 DOI: 10.5001/omj.2020.46] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2019] [Accepted: 10/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Consuming raw vegetables presents a considerable risk to the public and is the chief mode of transmission of intestinal parasites. We sought to assess the degree of parasitic contaminations on selected vegetables in the UAE. Methods A total of 218 fresh vegetable samples were collected randomly from different farms and local supermarkets between February 2017 and January 2018. After washing and centrifugation, the sediment was examined microscopically for parasitic forms. Results Protozoa cysts and helminths eggs were detected in 15.1% (33/218) of samples. The most detected parasites were Entamoeba complex (E. histolytica/E. dispar/E. moshkovskii) (30.3%), Entamoeba coli (18.2%), Trichuris trichiura (12.1%), Strongyloides stercoralis (12.1%), Ascaris lumbricoides egg (9.1%), Endolimax nana cyst and Enterobius vermicularis egg (6.1% each), and Giardia lamblia and Hymenolepis nana (3.0% each). We found no significant association between the vegetable type and the parasite occurrence (p > 0.050). Moreover, parasite incidence was independent of the vegetable type (p > 0.050). Conclusions The study highlights the potential of raw produce serving as a major source of foodborne disease outbreaks and its role in the transmission of intestinal parasitic infections. Public education on the safe handling of raw vegetables is recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali El Bakri
- Medical Laboratory Sciences Department, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, UAE
| | - Nabila M Hussein
- Medical Laboratory Sciences Department, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, UAE
| | - Zeinab Abdallah Ibrahim
- Medical Laboratory Sciences Department, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, UAE
| | - Hayder Hasan
- Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics Department, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, UAE
| | - Raed AbuOdeh
- Medical Laboratory Sciences Department, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, UAE
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Detection methods and prevalence of transmission stages of Toxoplasma gondii, Giardia duodenalis and Cryptosporidium spp. in fresh vegetables: a review. Parasitology 2020; 147:516-532. [PMID: 31965956 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182020000086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
One of the ways of human parasitic infection is the accidental ingestion of vegetables contaminated with parasites, which represents a major human health hazard. This non-exhaustive review aims to evaluate studies carried out on five types of vegetables (lettuce, parsley, coriander, carrot and radish) since 2000, particularly the methods used for recovery, concentration, detection and identification of protozoan parasites such as Toxoplasma gondii, Giardia duodenalis and Cryptosporidium spp., and the results of each work. Various studies have determined the presence of pathogenic parasites in fresh vegetables with different rates; this variation in rate depends particularly on the detection method used which is related to each parasite and each vegetable type. The variation in parasitic prevalence in food could be due to different factors such as the geographical location, the size of analysed samples and the methods used for parasite detection.
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do Nascimento Ramos IC, Ramos RAN, Giannelli A, Lima VFS, Cringoli G, Rinaldi L, de Carvalho GA, Alves LC. An Additional Asset for the FLOTAC Technique: Detection of Gastrointestinal Parasites in Vegetables. Acta Parasitol 2019; 64:423-425. [PMID: 31069644 DOI: 10.2478/s11686-019-00059-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2018] [Accepted: 03/29/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Gastrointestinal parasites are considered amongst the most important threats to veterinary and human health worldwide. The transmission of these parasitic diseases usually involves the accidental ingestion of oocysts, cysts, eggs, and larvae, whose detection is generally achieved by classical coproparasitological methods, based on sedimentation and/or flotation techniques. These procedures might be inefficient or display a low sensitivity when performed on food matrices. This study aimed to assess the value of the FLOTAC technique for the detection of different parasitic stages of gastrointestinal parasites of domestic animals in fresh lettuce. MATERIAL AND METHODS Samples (n = 100) were purchased from public markets located in the metropolitan region of Recife (Brazil). RESULTS A total of 79% scored positive for eggs and/or cysts of gastrointestinal parasites. Protozoa and nematodes were detected in 32% (32/100) and 64% (64/100) of samples, respectively, with cysts of the genus Entamoeba (32%) and eggs of nematodes of the order Strongylida (30%) being the most frequently diagnosed. CONCLUSIONS The findings herein reported demonstrate that the FLOTAC technique can be successfully applied for recovering food-borne parasites of medical and veterinary concern in food matrices.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rafael Antonio Nascimento Ramos
- Academic Unit of Garanhuns, Federal Rural University of Pernambuco, Av. Bom Pastor, s/n, Boa Vista, Garanhuns, Pernambuco, CEP 55292-270, Brazil.
| | | | | | - Giuseppe Cringoli
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Laura Rinaldi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Gílcia Aparecida de Carvalho
- Academic Unit of Garanhuns, Federal Rural University of Pernambuco, Av. Bom Pastor, s/n, Boa Vista, Garanhuns, Pernambuco, CEP 55292-270, Brazil
| | - Leucio Câmara Alves
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal Rural University of Pernambuco, Recife, Brazil
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21
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Bekele F, Shumbej T. Fruit and vegetable contamination with medically important helminths and protozoans in Tarcha town, Dawuro zone, South West Ethiopia. Res Rep Trop Med 2019; 10:19-23. [PMID: 31118867 PMCID: PMC6503341 DOI: 10.2147/rrtm.s205250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2019] [Accepted: 03/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Fresh vegetables supply the body with essential supplements. The consumption of raw vegetables and fruits are among the ways for transmission of intestinal parasitic organisms to human beings. This study was aimed at detecting the parasitic contamination in fresh vegetables sold at the central open-aired market of Tarcha town, Ethiopia. Methods: A total of 270 fresh vegetables and fruit samples were collected from the main market of Tarcha town during August 1, 2017–August 22, 2017. The samples were microscopically examined for detection of medically important parasites after washing with 500 mL normal saline and 24-hr sedimentation of the washing solution followed by centrifuging at 2000 g for 5 mins. After centrifugation, the supernatant was decanted leaving the sediment. Finally, the sediment was examined under a light microscope for protozoans and helminths worms. Results: Of the 270 fresh vegetable and fruit samples, 115 (42.6%) were found positive for intestinal parasites. A high level of contamination in fresh vegetable and fruit samples was recorded in cabbage 71.1% (32/45) while tomato was the least contaminated 24.4% (11/45). The identified medically important parasites were Entamoeba histolytica/dispar, Giardia intestinalis, Ascaris lumbricoides, Hymenolepis nana, Toxocara spp, Hymenolepis diminuta, and Cystoisospora belli. The most predominant parasite encountered was Ascaris lumbricoides (16.7%) whereas Cystoisospora belli (2.6%) the least detected. All of the vegetables and fruits that were contaminated were with more than one parasite species. A statistically significant association between the type of vegetables and the presence of parasites was also observed (p=0.002). Conclusion: This study has shown that fruits and vegetables which are sold in the study area are highly contaminated with medically important parasites. Fruits and vegetables sold in the study area may play a role in the transmission of intestinal parasitic infections to humans. Effective and comprehensive prevention measures should be taken to ensure food safety. Relevant bodies should work on addressing the issue of high rate of vegetable and fruit contamination in the study area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fitsum Bekele
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wolkite University, Wolkite, Ethiopia
| | - Teha Shumbej
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wolkite University, Wolkite, Ethiopia
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22
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Maldonade IR, Ginani VC, Riquette RFR, Gurgel-Gonçalves R, Mendes VS, Machado ER. Good manufacturing practices of minimally processed vegetables reduce contamination with pathogenic microorganisms. Rev Inst Med Trop Sao Paulo 2019; 61:e14. [PMID: 30785568 PMCID: PMC6376928 DOI: 10.1590/s1678-9946201961014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2018] [Accepted: 12/19/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Consumption of ready-to-eat (RTE) vegetables is quick, easy and healthy, especially when eaten without cooking. However, they might be a source of foodborne pathogenic microorganisms. The objective of this study was to evaluate the microbiological and parasitological contamination of fresh RTE vegetables produced in agroindustries in the Federal District of Brazil (FD), and to correlate contamination with good manufacturing practices (GMP). One hundred and three samples of RTE vegetables were collected from six agroindustries for microbiology and parasitology analyses and correlate with GMP; 54 samples were collected from three hypermarkets for parasitological evaluation. None of the samples analyzed were positive for Salmonella sp. and for thermotolerant coliforms, but they were contaminated with total coliforms. All analyzed samples were contaminated with at least one species of enteroparasistes or commensals, which were identified as Ascaris sp., Balantidium coli, Entamoeba histolytica/dispar, Hookworm, Strongyloides sp., Trichuris sp., Entamoeba sp., eggs and larvae of Nematoda, insects and fungi. Agroindustries that adopted GMP showed less contamination with helminths. RTE vegetables sold in hypermarkets of the FD are unfit for human consumption. It is important to guide farmers in the FD on the need to adopt good practices in the production and processing of vegetables to reduce the microbial contamination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iriani Rodrigues Maldonade
- Empresa Brasileira de Pesquisa Agropecuária, Laboratório de Ciência e Tecnologia de Alimentos, Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
| | - Verônica Cortez Ginani
- Universidade de Brasília, Faculdade de Ciências da Saúde, Departamento de Nutrição, Laboratório de Higiene dos Alimentos, Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
| | - Roberta Figueiredo Resende Riquette
- Universidade de Brasília, Faculdade de Ciências da Saúde, Departamento de Nutrição, Laboratório de Higiene dos Alimentos, Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo Gurgel-Gonçalves
- Universidade de Brasília, Faculdade de Medicina, Laboratório de Parasitologia Médica e Biologia de Vetores, Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
| | | | - Eleuza Rodrigues Machado
- Universidade de Brasília, Faculdade de Medicina, Laboratório de Parasitologia Médica e Biologia de Vetores, Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil.,Universidade Kroton, Faculdade Anhanguera de Taguatinga, Taguatinga, Distrito Federal, Brazil
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Punsawad C, Phasuk N, Thongtup K, Nagavirochana S, Viriyavejakul P. Prevalence of parasitic contamination of raw vegetables in Nakhon Si Thammarat province, southern Thailand. BMC Public Health 2019; 19:34. [PMID: 30621643 PMCID: PMC6323832 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-018-6358-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2018] [Accepted: 12/21/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections are major public health problems in poor and developing countries that require fecal contamination of the environment for transmission. The consumption of raw vegetables without proper washing is one of the main routes of intestinal parasite acquisition. Therefore, this study was designed to detect the prevalence of intestinal parasitic contamination in commonly consumed raw vegetables sold in three central open-air markets in Nakhon Si Thammarat province, southern Thailand. Methods A total of 265 fresh vegetable samples consisting of peppermint, lettuce, coriander, leek, gotu kola, celery, Chinese cabbage, culantro, Thai basil, and Chinese morning glory were purchased from three central open-air markets in the Mueang, Thasala and Sichon districts from December 2016 to March 2017. Each sample was washed with physiological saline, shaken for 15 min, and then allowed to sediment. Finally, sedimentation was performed via the sedimentation concentration technique and examined using light microscopy for the detection of pathogenic parasites. Results The overall prevalence of parasitic contamination was 35.1% (93/265). The most predominant parasite was hookworms (42.9%), followed by Strongyloides stercoralis (10.6%), Trichuris trichiura (2.6%), Ascaris lumbricoides (2.6%), and Toxocara spp. (2.6%). The highest level of contamination was found in celery, with a prevalence rate of 63.3% (19/30), while the lowest contamination level was found in Chinese morning glory, with a prevalence rate of 2.0% (2/30). The prevalence of intestinal parasite contamination in Mueang district (51.5%) was significantly higher than that in Thasala district (17.9%) and Sichon district (30.6%) (P < 0.001). Conclusion The results of the present study demonstrate that consumption of vegetables with parasite contamination in this area represents a potential route for the transmission of parasitic infection, particularly hookworm infection. Therefore, it is necessary for health authorities to educate consumers about the proper washing of vegetables prior to consumption. Preventive methods such as wearing gloves and washing hands after handling vegetables should also be advocated to sellers who are at risk of acquiring STH infections via skin penetration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuchard Punsawad
- School of Medicine, Walailak University, 222 Thasala district, Nakhon Si Thammarat, 80161, Thailand. .,Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Research Institute for Health Sciences, Walailak University, 222 Thasala district, Nakhon Si Thammarat, 80161, Thailand.
| | - Nonthapan Phasuk
- School of Medicine, Walailak University, 222 Thasala district, Nakhon Si Thammarat, 80161, Thailand.,Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Research Institute for Health Sciences, Walailak University, 222 Thasala district, Nakhon Si Thammarat, 80161, Thailand
| | - Kanjana Thongtup
- School of Medicine, Walailak University, 222 Thasala district, Nakhon Si Thammarat, 80161, Thailand
| | - Surasak Nagavirochana
- School of Medicine, Walailak University, 222 Thasala district, Nakhon Si Thammarat, 80161, Thailand
| | - Parnpen Viriyavejakul
- Department of Tropical Pathology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10400, Thailand
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Ryan U, Hijjawi N, Feng Y, Xiao L. Giardia: an under-reported foodborne parasite. Int J Parasitol 2018; 49:1-11. [PMID: 30391227 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2018.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2018] [Revised: 07/23/2018] [Accepted: 07/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Foodborne zoonotic pathogens are a serious public health issue and result in significant global economic losses. Despite their importance to public health, epidemiological data on foodborne diseases including giardiasis caused by the enteric parasite, Giardia duodenalis, are lacking. This parasite is estimated to cause ∼28.2 million cases of diarrhoea each year due to contamination of food, but very few foodborne outbreaks have been documented due to the limitations of current detection as well as surveillance methods. The current method for the recovery of Giardia cysts from food matrices using immunomagnetic separation requires further standardisation and cost reduction before it can be widely used. It also should incorporate downstream molecular procedures for genotyping, and traceback and viability analyses. Foodborne giardiasis can be potentially controlled through improvements in national disease surveillance systems and the establishment of Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point interventions across the food chain. Studies are needed to assess the true prevalence and public health impact of foodborne giardiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Una Ryan
- School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Vector- and Water-Borne Pathogen Research Group, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia 6150, Australia.
| | - Nawal Hijjawi
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, The Hashemite University PO Box 150459, Zarqa 13115, Jordan
| | - Yaoyu Feng
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Lihua Xiao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
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Alvarez Rojas CA, Mathis A, Deplazes P. Assessing the Contamination of Food and the Environment With Taenia and Echinococcus Eggs and Their Zoonotic Transmission. CURRENT CLINICAL MICROBIOLOGY REPORTS 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s40588-018-0091-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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26
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de Lucio A, Bailo B, Aguilera M, Cardona GA, Fernández-Crespo JC, Carmena D. No molecular epidemiological evidence supporting household transmission of zoonotic Giardia duodenalis and Cryptosporidium spp. from pet dogs and cats in the province of Álava, Northern Spain. Acta Trop 2017; 170:48-56. [PMID: 28235458 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2017.02.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2016] [Revised: 02/09/2017] [Accepted: 02/16/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The role of pet dogs and cats as suitable source of human infections by the diarrheagenic protozoan parasites Giardia duodenalis and Cryptosporidium spp. has been a topic of intense debate for long time and still remains a largely unsolved problem. In this cross-sectional molecular epidemiological survey we attempted to investigate whether zoonotic (or zooanthroponotic) disease transmission was occurring among humans and domestic dogs and cats sharing the same spatial and temporal setting in both rural and urban areas of the province of Álava, Northern Spain. A total of 268 (including 179 human, 55 canine, and 34 feline) individual faecal specimens were obtained from 63 family households during February-March and November-December 2014. Detection of G. duodenalis cysts and Cryptosporidium spp. oocysts was achieved by direct fluorescence microscopy (DFAT) and PCR-based methods targeting the small subunit (SSU) ribosomal RNA gene of the parasites. Giardia-positive isolates were subsequently sub-genotyped at the glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH) and β-giardin (BG) genes. Overall, G. duodenalis infections were identified in 3.4% (6/179) of humans, 29% (16/55) of dogs, and 5.9% (2/34) of cats, respectively. Cryptosporidium spp. infections were detected in 1.1% (2/179) of humans, 5.5% (3/55) of dogs, and 8.8% (3/34) of cats, respectively. Simultaneous infections in human and canine/feline hosts by G. duodenalis or Cryptosporidium spp. were only demonstrated in a single household in which a cat and its owner tested positive for Cryptosporidium by DFAT, but this result could not be confirmed by SSU-PCR. Infections were homogeneously distributed among the studied human or animal populations irrespectively of their sex, age group, or geographical region of origin. Inadequate washing of raw vegetables and fruits was the only risk factor significantly associated to a higher likelihood of having human giardiosis/cryptosporidiosis. Molecular characterization of G. duodenalis isolates revealed the presence of sub-assemblage BIV in a single human isolate. All dog (n=3) and cat (n=2) isolates successfully genotyped were assigned to canine- and feline-specific assemblages C and F, respectively. No mixed assemblage or sub-assemblage infections could be demonstrated. Regarding Cryptosporidium, C. canis was found infecting dogs (n=2), and C. felis a single cat. Attempts to amplify and characterize Cryptosporidium human isolates failed repeatedly. Our results suggest that pet dogs and cats do not seem to play a significant role as suitable reservoirs of human giardiosis or cryptosporidiosis in the province of Álava. We conclude, therefore, that zoonotic transmission of giardiosis or cryptosporidiosis among pet dogs and cats and their owners in this geographical region is very likely a rare event.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aida de Lucio
- Parasitology Service, National Centre for Microbiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Ctra. Majadahonda-Pozuelo Km 2, 28220 Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Begoña Bailo
- Parasitology Service, National Centre for Microbiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Ctra. Majadahonda-Pozuelo Km 2, 28220 Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - María Aguilera
- Parasitology Service, National Centre for Microbiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Ctra. Majadahonda-Pozuelo Km 2, 28220 Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Guillermo A Cardona
- Livestock Laboratory, Regional Government of Álava, Ctra. de Azua 4, 01520 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - Juan C Fernández-Crespo
- Sub-Direction of Public Health of Álava, Department of Health, Basque Government, Avda. Santiago 11, 01002 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - David Carmena
- Parasitology Service, National Centre for Microbiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Ctra. Majadahonda-Pozuelo Km 2, 28220 Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain.
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The Prevalence of Parasitic Contamination of Vegetables Consumed in Malayer City, West of Iran, in 2014. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017. [DOI: 10.5812/ajcmi.42380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Bekele F, Tefera T, Biresaw G, Yohannes T. Parasitic contamination of raw vegetables and fruits collected from selected local markets in Arba Minch town, Southern Ethiopia. Infect Dis Poverty 2017; 6:19. [PMID: 28264707 PMCID: PMC5340032 DOI: 10.1186/s40249-016-0226-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2016] [Accepted: 12/20/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background One way that people get infected with intestinal parasites is through the consumption of contaminated vegetables and fruits. This study aimed at determining the prevalence and predictors of parasitic contamination of fruits and vegetables collected from four local markets in Arba Minch town, Southern Ethiopia. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted from 1 to 21 September 2014 to determine the level of parasitic contamination of fruits and vegetables sold in Arba Minch town. A total of 360 samples of different types of fruits and vegetables were soaked in physiological saline, followed by vigorous shaking with the aid of a mechanical shaker for 15 minutes and then examined using the sedimentation concentration technique. Results Out of the 360 samples examined, 196 (54.4%) were contaminated with at least one type of parasite. Ascaris lumbricoides (20.83%) was the most frequently detected parasite and Isospora belli (3.06%) was the least frequently detected one. It was also observed that decreased parasitic contamination was significantly associated with washing the products before displaying it for selling (P < 0.001). Conclusions The findings of this study provide evidence that there is a potentially high risk of acquiring parasitic infections from the consumption of raw vegetables and fruits in Arba Minch, Ethiopia. The authors believe that an effort should be made by the relevant bodies to reduce the rate of contamination of products with medically important parasites by educating the vendors and the community. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s40249-016-0226-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fitsum Bekele
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences and Medicine, Wolaita Sodo University, P.O. Box 138, Wolaita Sodo, Ethiopia.
| | - Tamirat Tefera
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences and Pathology, College of Public Health and Medical Sciences, Jimma University, P.O. Box 378, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Gelila Biresaw
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Health Sciences and Medicine Arba Minch University, P.O. Box 21, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
| | - Tsegaye Yohannes
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Health Sciences and Medicine Arba Minch University, P.O. Box 21, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
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Lass A, Szostakowska B, Myjak P, Korzeniewski K. Fresh fruits, vegetables and mushrooms as transmission vehicles for Echinococcus multilocularis in highly endemic areas of Poland: reply to concerns. Parasitol Res 2016; 115:3637-42. [PMID: 27249964 PMCID: PMC4980413 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-016-5149-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2016] [Accepted: 05/20/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Echinococcus multilocularis is a tapeworm that may cause alveolar echinococcosis (AE), one of the most dangerous parasitic zoonoses. As in the case of other foodborne diseases, unwashed fruits and vegetables, contaminated with dispersed forms of E. multilocularis, may serve as an important transmission route for this parasite. In this article, we reply to the incorrect interpretation of results of our study concerning the detection of E. multilocularis DNA in fresh fruit, vegetable and mushroom samples collected from the highly endemic areas of the Warmia-Masuria Province, Poland, to dispel any doubts. The accusations formulated by the commentators concerning our paper are unfounded; moreover, these commentators demand information which was beyond the purview of our study. Making generalisations and drawing far-reaching conclusions from our work is also unjustified. The majority of positive samples were found in only a few hyperendemic communities; this information corresponds with the highest number of both infected foxes and AE cases in humans recorded in this area. Our findings indicate that E. multilocularis is present in the environment and may create a potential risk for the inhabitants. These people should simply be informed to wash fruits and vegetables before eating. No additional far-reaching conclusions should be drawn from our data. We believe these commentators needlessly misinterpreted our results and disseminated misleading information. Nevertheless, we would like to encourage any readers simply to contact us if any aspects of our study are unclear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Lass
- Department of Tropical Parasitology, Institute of Maritime and Tropical Medicine in Gdynia, Medical University of Gdansk, 9b Powstania Styczniowego Str., 81-519, Gdynia, Poland.
| | - Beata Szostakowska
- Department of Tropical Parasitology, Institute of Maritime and Tropical Medicine in Gdynia, Medical University of Gdansk, 9b Powstania Styczniowego Str., 81-519, Gdynia, Poland
| | - Przemysław Myjak
- Department of Tropical Parasitology, Institute of Maritime and Tropical Medicine in Gdynia, Medical University of Gdansk, 9b Powstania Styczniowego Str., 81-519, Gdynia, Poland
| | - Krzysztof Korzeniewski
- Epidemiology and Tropical Medicine Department in Gdynia, Military Institute of Medicine in Warsaw, Grudzińskiego St. 4, 81-103, Gdynia, Poland
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Simultaneous detection of the protozoan parasites Toxoplasma, Cryptosporidium and Giardia in food matrices and their persistence on basil leaves. Food Microbiol 2016; 57:36-44. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fm.2016.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2015] [Revised: 01/06/2016] [Accepted: 01/09/2016] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Matini M, Shamsi-Ehsan T, Maghsood AH. The Parasitic Contamination of Farm Vegetables in Asadabad City, West of Iran, in 2014. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.17795/ajcmi-32474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Matini
- Students Research Center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, IR Iran
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, IR Iran
| | - Tayebeh Shamsi-Ehsan
- Students Research Center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, IR Iran
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, IR Iran
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Elyana FN, Al-Mekhlafi HM, Ithoi I, Abdulsalam AM, Dawaki S, Nasr NA, Atroosh WM, Abd-Basher MH, Al-Areeqi MA, Sady H, Subramaniam LR, Anuar TS, Lau YL, Moktar N, Surin J. A tale of two communities: intestinal polyparasitism among Orang Asli and Malay communities in rural Terengganu, Malaysia. Parasit Vectors 2016; 9:398. [PMID: 27422533 PMCID: PMC4947346 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-016-1678-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2016] [Accepted: 07/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) are still major health problems in many developing countries including Malaysia, particularly in the poor and socioeconomically deprived rural and remote communities in Peninsular Malaysia. This study was conducted to determine the prevalence of IPIs and to identify the key factors associated with intestinal polyparasitism as well as to evaluate the knowledge, attitude and practices (KAP) on IPIs among rural Orang Asli and Malay communities in Terengganu, Malaysia. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among 340 participants (165 Orang Asli and 175 Malay) aged ≤ 15 years from the Hulu Terengganu and Kemaman districts of Terengganu. Faecal samples were examined for the presence of intestinal parasites by using direct smear, formalin-ether sedimentation, trichrome stain, modified Ziehl Neelsen stain, in vitro cultivation in Jones’ medium, Kato Katz and Harada Mori techniques. Demographic, socioeconomic, environmental and behavioural information of the participants and their KAP for IPIs were collected by using a pre-tested questionnaire. Results Overall, 149 (90.3 %) Orang Asli and 43 (24.6 %) Malay children were infected by at least one parasite species. The overall prevalences of intestinal polyparasitism among the Orang Asli and Malay were 68.5 % (113/165) and 14.3 % (25/175), respectively. Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that using unsafe water supply as a source for drinking water, the presence of domestic animals, not wearing shoes when outside, not washing vegetables before consumption, not washing hands after playing with soil, indiscriminate defecation and the low level of mother’s education were the key risk factors for intestinal polyparasitism among the Orang Asli, while working mothers and the presence of domestic animals were the risk factors among the Malay children. Almost all the Malays were well aware about the IPIs while Orang Asli respondents had a poor level of related awareness. Conclusions This study demonstrates that IPIs are highly prevalent in rural Terengganu, Malaysia. Community awareness about IPIs was found to be imperative in protecting Malay children from these infections. An integrated control programme for the prevention and control of IPIs is highly recommended for these communities, with a special emphasis on the Orang Asli population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatin Nur Elyana
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Hesham M Al-Mekhlafi
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. .,Endemic and Tropical Diseases Unit, Medical Research Center, Jazan University, Jazan, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. .,Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sana'a University, Sana'a, Yemen.
| | - Init Ithoi
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Awatif M Abdulsalam
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Salwa Dawaki
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Nabil A Nasr
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Wahib M Atroosh
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Mohamad Hafiz Abd-Basher
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Mona A Al-Areeqi
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Hany Sady
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Lahvanya R Subramaniam
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Tengku Shahrul Anuar
- Integrative Pharmacogenomics Institute, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Puncak Alam Campus, 42300, Selangor, Malaysia.,Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Puncak Alam Campus, 42300, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Yee Ling Lau
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Norhayati Moktar
- Department of Parasitology and Medical Entomology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre, Jalan Yaacob Latif, 56000, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Johari Surin
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.,Centre for Research and Innovation, Taylor's University, Subang Jaya, 47500, Selangor, Malaysia
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Matosinhos FC, Valenzuela VC, Silveira JA, Rabelo EM. Standardization of a method for the detection of helminth eggs and larvae in lettuce. Parasitol Res 2016; 115:1827-34. [PMID: 26786833 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-016-4922-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2015] [Accepted: 01/11/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Despite reports that food-borne parasitic infections have been increasing worldwide, the methodologies employed to detect food contamination by helminths are still largely based on methodologies used to detect these pathogens in feces and water. This study sought to improve the diagnosis of parasitic contaminants in lettuce by standardizing a method for detecting helminth eggs and larvae and estimating their percentage of recovery. Sanitized lettuces were artificially contaminated with different amounts of Ascaris suum and hookworm eggs and larvae. To standardize the method, we tested liquid extractors, vegetable washing steps, and spontaneous sedimentation times. Higher percentages of egg and larvae recovery were obtained using 1 M glycine as the liquid extractor, manual shaking for 3 min and 2 h of sedimentation. Five different levels of artificial contamination (ten replicates each; n = 50) were tested using these standardized conditions, yielding an average recovery of 62.6 % (±20.2), 51.9 % (±20.0), and 50.0 % (±27.3) for A. suum eggs, hookworm eggs, and larvae, respectively. Tests were performed with a different matrix to evaluate the performance of the method. Furthermore, collaborative analytical studies performed by different laboratories produced satisfactory results. The method for the identification of helminth eggs and larvae proposed in this study proved to be simpler and more efficient than previously published procedures, thereby demonstrating its potential contribution to health surveillance and epidemiological studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- F C Matosinhos
- Serviço de Microscopia de Produtos do Instituto Otávio Magalhães da Fundação Ezequiel Dias, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - V C Valenzuela
- Serviço de Microscopia de Produtos do Instituto Otávio Magalhães da Fundação Ezequiel Dias, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - J A Silveira
- Departamento de Parasitologia - Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Avenida Antônio Carlos, 6627, CEP 31270-901, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - E M Rabelo
- Departamento de Parasitologia - Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Avenida Antônio Carlos, 6627, CEP 31270-901, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.
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Mohamed MA, Siddig EE, Elaagip AH, Edris AMM, Nasr AA. Parasitic contamination of fresh vegetables sold at central markets in Khartoum state, Sudan. Ann Clin Microbiol Antimicrob 2016; 15:17. [PMID: 26968696 PMCID: PMC4788893 DOI: 10.1186/s12941-016-0133-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2015] [Accepted: 03/03/2016] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Fresh vegetables are considered as vital nutrients of a healthy diet as they supply the body with essential supplements. The consumption of raw vegetables is the main way for transmission of intestinal parasitic organisms. This study was aimed at detecting the parasitic contamination in fresh vegetables sold in two central open-aired markets in Khartoum state, Sudan. Methods In this prospective cross-sectional study, a total of 260 fresh vegetable samples and 50 water samples used to sprinkle vegetable(s) were collected from two central open-aired markets (namely; Elshaabi and Central markets) during November 2011 to May 2012. The samples were microscopically examined for detection of parasitic life forms using standardized parasitological techniques for protozoans and helminthes worms. Results Of the 260 fresh vegetable samples, 35 (13.5 %) were microscopically positive for intestinal parasites whereas 7/50 (14 %) of water samples used to sprinkle vegetable(s) were found positives. Remarkably, high level of contamination in fresh vegetable samples was recorded in lettuce (Lactuca sativa) 36.4 % (4/11) while cayenne pepper (Capsicum annuum) and cucumber (Cucumis sativus) were not contaminated. The identified protozoans and helminthes were Entamoeba histolytica/dispar, Entamoeba coli, Giardia lamblia, Ascaris lumbricoides, Strongyloides stercoralis, T. trichiura and hookworms. The most predominant parasite encountered was E. histolytica/dispar (42.9 %) whereas both T. trichiura and A. lumbricoides (2.9 %) were the least detected parasites. None of the fresh vegetables had single parasitic contamination. The highest percentages found in water samples used to sprinkle vegetable(s) was for Strongyloides larvae 60 % (3/5). It is worth-mentioned that the rate of contamination in Elshaabi market was higher compared with Central market. However, there was no significant correlation between the type of vegetables and existence of parasites in both markets and a high significant relationship was observed between the type of parasite and total prevalence in fresh vegetables (p = 0.000). Conclusion The study has identified a moderate rate of fresh vegetables contaminated with protozoan and helminthes. Contaminated fresh vegetables in central markets of Khartoum state may play a significant role in transmission of intestinal parasitic infections to humans, and the water used by greengrocers to sprinkle vegetable(s) can be implicated in vegetable contamination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona Ali Mohamed
- Department of Parasitology and Medical Entomology, Faculty of Medical Laboratory Sciences, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan. .,Nile College, Khartoum, Sudan.
| | - Emmanuel Edwar Siddig
- Department of Histopathology and Cytology, Faculty of Medical Laboratory Sciences, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Arwa Hassan Elaagip
- Department of Parasitology and Medical Entomology, Faculty of Medical Laboratory Sciences, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Ali Mahmoud Mohammed Edris
- Department of Histopathology and Cytology, Faculty of Medical Laboratory Sciences, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Awad Ahmed Nasr
- Department of Parasitology and Medical Entomology, Faculty of Medical Laboratory Sciences, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan
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Fallah AA, Makhtumi Y, Pirali-Kheirabadi K. Seasonal study of parasitic contamination in fresh salad vegetables marketed in Shahrekord, Iran. Food Control 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodcont.2015.08.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Parasitic contamination of commonly consumed fresh leafy vegetables in benha, egypt. J Parasitol Res 2014; 2014:613960. [PMID: 25024845 PMCID: PMC4084512 DOI: 10.1155/2014/613960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2014] [Revised: 04/24/2014] [Accepted: 05/27/2014] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
This study evaluated the degree of parasitic contamination of vegetables which are commercialized and consumed fresh in Benha, Egypt. It included 530 vegetables: lettuce, watercress, parsley, green onion, and leek. Vegetables were collected randomly from markets within Benha. Samples were washed in saline, and the resulting washing solution was filtered and centrifuged to concentrate the parasitic stages. Sediments and supernatants were examined by iodine and modified Ziehl-Neelsen stained smears. Intestinal parasites were detected in 157/530 (29.6%) samples. Giardia lamblia cysts were the most prevalent parasite (8.8%) followed by Entamoeba spp. cysts (6.8%), Enterobius vermicularis eggs (4.9%), various helminth larvae (3.6%), Hymenolepis nana eggs (2.8%), Hymenolepis diminuta eggs (2.1%), and Ascaris lumbricoides eggs (0.6%). The highest contaminated vegetable was lettuce (45.5%) followed by watercress (41.3%), parsley (34.3%), green onion (16.5%), and leek (10.7%). These results indicate a significant seasonal variation (P < 0.05), with highest prevalence in summer (49%) and the lowest in winter (10.8%). These findings provide evidence for the high risk of acquiring parasitic infection from the consumption of raw vegetables in Benha, Egypt. Effective measures are necessary to reduce parasitic contamination of vegetables.
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Ezatpour B, Chegeni AS, Abdollahpour F, Aazami M, Alirezaei M. Prevalence of parasitic contamination of raw vegetables in Khorramabad, Iran. Food Control 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodcont.2013.03.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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Soares Magalhães RJ, Fançony C, Gamboa D, Langa AJ, Sousa-Figueiredo JC, Clements ACA, Vaz Nery S. Extending helminth control beyond STH and schistosomiasis: the case of human hymenolepiasis. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2013; 7:e2321. [PMID: 24205412 PMCID: PMC3812097 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0002321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo J. Soares Magalhães
- University of Queensland, Infectious Disease Epidemiology Unit, School of Population Health, Herston, Queensland, Australia
- * E-mail:
| | - Cláudia Fançony
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde em Angola, Caxito, Rua Direita do Caxito, Hospital Provincial do Bengo, Caxito, Angola
| | - Dina Gamboa
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde em Angola, Caxito, Rua Direita do Caxito, Hospital Provincial do Bengo, Caxito, Angola
| | - António J. Langa
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde em Angola, Caxito, Rua Direita do Caxito, Hospital Provincial do Bengo, Caxito, Angola
| | - José Carlos Sousa-Figueiredo
- Disease Control Strategy Group, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Archie C. A. Clements
- University of Queensland, Infectious Disease Epidemiology Unit, School of Population Health, Herston, Queensland, Australia
| | - Susana Vaz Nery
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde em Angola, Caxito, Rua Direita do Caxito, Hospital Provincial do Bengo, Caxito, Angola
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Ebrahimzadeh A, Jamshidi A, Mohammadi S. The Parasitic Contamination of Raw Vegetables Consumed in Zahedan, Iran. HEALTH SCOPE 2013. [DOI: 10.17795/jhealthscope-8209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Molecular epidemiology of amoebiasis in Malaysia: highlighting the different risk factors of Entamoeba histolytica and Entamoeba dispar infections among Orang Asli communities. Int J Parasitol 2012; 42:1165-75. [PMID: 23123168 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2012.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2012] [Revised: 10/04/2012] [Accepted: 10/05/2012] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Currently, species-specific information on Entamoeba infections is unavailable in Malaysia and is restricted worldwide due to the re-description of pathogenic Entamoeba histolytica and non-pathogenic Entamoeba dispar and Entamoeba moshkovskii. Therefore, this cross-sectional study was conducted to provide the first known documented data on the true prevalence of these three species in western Malaysia using a molecular method. Another aim of this study was to determine the association of potential risk factors associated with each Entamoeba sp. A total of 500 stool samples from three Orang Asli tribes were randomly collected. The overall prevalence of E. histolytica, E. dispar and E. moshkovskii determined by microscopy was 18.6% (93/500). Molecular analysis revealed that while most Entamoeba-positive individuals were infected with E. dispar (13.4%), followed by E. histolytica (3.2%) and E. moshkovskii (1.0%), the present findings show low prevalence rates of mixed infections with E. histolytica and E. dispar (2%), E. dispar and E. moshkovskii (1.2%) and association infections of E. histolytica, E. dispar and E. moshkovskii (0.4%). Logistical regression analysis indicates that the dynamics of the transmission of the three Entamoeba spp. was different. Of six statistically significant variables observed in the univariate analysis, three were retained as significant risk factors for E. histolytica infection in the logistical regression model. These factors were (i) not washing hands after playing with soil or gardening (Odds ratio (OR)=4.7; 95% confidence level (CI)=1.38, 16.14; P=0.013), (ii) indiscriminate defecation in the river or bush (OR=5.7; 95% CI=1.46, 21.95; P=0.012) and (iii) close contact with domestic animals (OR=5.4; 95% CI=1.36, 2.51; P=0.017). However, subjects with family members who were infected with E. histolytica/E. dispar/E. moshkovskii (OR=3.8; 95 CI=2.11, 6.86; P<0.001) and those who consumed raw vegetables (OR=1.8; 95% CI=1.01, 3.23; P=0.047) were more likely to be infected with E. dispar. On the other hand, no associated factor was identified with E. moshkovskii infection. Nevertheless, diarrhoea (P=0.002) and other gastroenteritis symptoms (P<0.001) were only associated with E. histolytica infection. The present study provides new insight into the distribution and risk factors of E. histolytica, E. dispar and E. moshkovskii infections among Orang Asli communities in Malaysia. Identifying the different risk factors of E. histolytica and E. dispar infections will help in the planning specific strategies in the control and prevention of each infection in the communities. Moreover, it emphasises the need for molecular methods to determine the species-specific prevalence of Entamoeba spp.
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Shahrul Anuar T, M. Al-Mekhlafi H, Abdul Ghani MK, Osman E, Mohd Yasin A, Nordin A, Nor Azreen S, Md Salleh F, Ghazali N, Bernadus M, Moktar N. Prevalence and risk factors associated with Entamoeba histolytica/dispar/moshkovskii infection among three Orang Asli ethnic groups in Malaysia. PLoS One 2012; 7:e48165. [PMID: 23133561 PMCID: PMC3485054 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0048165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2012] [Accepted: 09/21/2012] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Entamoeba histolytica/Entamoeba dispar/Entamoeba moshkovskii infection is still prevalent in rural Malaysia especially among Orang Asli communities. Currently, information on prevalence of this infection among different ethnic groups of Orang Asli is unavailable in Malaysia. To contribute to a better comprehension of the epidemiology of this infection, a cross-sectional study aimed at providing the first documented data on the prevalence and risk factors associated with E. histolytica/E. dispar/E. moshkovskii infection was carried out among three Orang Asli ethnic groups (Proto-Malay, Negrito, and Senoi) in selected villages in Negeri Sembilan, Perak, and Pahang states, Malaysia. METHODS/FINDINGS Faecal samples were examined by formalin-ether sedimentation and trichrome staining techniques. Of 500 individuals, 8.7% (13/150) of Proto-Malay, 29.5% (41/139) of Negrito, and 18.5% (39/211) of Senoi were positive for E. histolytica/E. dispar/E. moshkovskii, respectively. The prevalence of this infection showed an age-dependency relationship, with higher rates observed among those aged less than 15 years in all ethnic groups studied. Multivariate analysis confirmed that not washing hands after playing with soils or gardening and presence of other family members infected with E. histolytica/E. dispar/E. moshkovskii were significant risk factors of infection among all ethnic groups. However, eating with hands, the consumption of raw vegetables, and close contact with domestic animals were identified as significant risk factors in Senoi. CONCLUSIONS Essentially, the findings highlighted that E. histolytica/E. dispar/E. moshkovskii parasites are still prevalent in Malaysia. Further studies using molecular approaches to distinguish the morphologically identical species of pathogenic, E. histolytica from the non-pathogenic, E. dispar and E. moshkovskii are needed. The establishment of such data will be beneficial for the public health authorities in the planning and implementation of specific prevention and control strategies of this infection in different Orang Asli ethnic groups in Malaysia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tengku Shahrul Anuar
- Department of Parasitology and Medical Entomology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Hesham M. Al-Mekhlafi
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Mohamed Kamel Abdul Ghani
- Programme of Biomedical Sciences, School of Diagnostic and Applied Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Emelia Osman
- Department of Parasitology and Medical Entomology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Azlin Mohd Yasin
- Department of Parasitology and Medical Entomology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Anisah Nordin
- Department of Parasitology and Medical Entomology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Siti Nor Azreen
- Department of Parasitology and Medical Entomology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Fatmah Md Salleh
- Department of Parasitology and Medical Entomology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Nuraffini Ghazali
- Department of Parasitology and Medical Entomology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Mekadina Bernadus
- Department of Parasitology and Medical Entomology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Norhayati Moktar
- Department of Parasitology and Medical Entomology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- * E-mail:
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Prevalence of parasitic contamination in vegetables used for raw consumption in Shahrekord, Iran: Influence of season and washing procedure. Food Control 2012. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodcont.2011.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Pham Duc P, Nguyen-Viet H, Hattendorf J, Zinsstag J, Dac Cam P, Odermatt P. Risk factors for Entamoeba histolytica infection in an agricultural community in Hanam province, Vietnam. Parasit Vectors 2011; 4:102. [PMID: 21663665 PMCID: PMC3141740 DOI: 10.1186/1756-3305-4-102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2011] [Accepted: 06/10/2011] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Entamoeba histolytica is an important protozoan intestinal infection in resource-poor settings, including Vietnam. The study objective was to assess risk factors of E. histolytica infection in a community in Vietnam, where wastewater and human excreta are used in agriculture. A case-control study was conducted among residents of Hanam province, Northern Vietnam. Cases (n = 46) infected with E. histolytica and non-infected controls (n = 138) were identified in a cross-sectional survey among 794 randomly selected individuals and matched for age, sex and place of residence. Potential risk factors including exposure to human and animal excreta and household wastewater were assessed with a questionnaire. RESULTS People from households with an average socio-economic status had a much higher risk of E. histolytica infection (odds ratio [OR]=4.3, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.3-14.0) compared with those from households with a good socioeconomic status. Those individuals who never or rarely used soap for hand washing had a 3.4 times higher risk for infection (OR=3.4, 95% CI: 1.1-10.0), compared to those who used always soap. In contrast, none of the factors related to use of human or animal excreta was statistically significant associated with E. histolytica infection. People having close contact with domestic animals presented a greater risk of E. histolytica infection (OR = 5.9, 95% CI: 1.8-19.0) than those without animal contact. E. histolytica infection was not associated with direct contact with Nhue river water, pond water and household's sanitary conditions, type of latrine or water source used. CONCLUSIONS Our study suggests that in settings where human and animal excreta and Nhue River water are intensively used in agriculture, socio-economic and personal hygiene factors determine infection with E. histolytica, rather than exposure to human and animal excreta in agricultural activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phuc Pham Duc
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, PO Box CH-4002, Basel, Switzerland.
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