Community awareness of intestinal parasites and the prevalence of infection among community members of rural Abaye Deneba area, Ethiopia

Knowledge, attitude and practice towards intestinal schistosomiasis among school-aged children and adults in Amhara Regional State, northwest Ethiopia. A cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Schistosoma mansoni causes intestinal schistosomiasis (SCH) in all regions of Ethiopia. Despite many years of mass treatment, the prevalence has not dropped significantly. The reduction of SCH transmission demands the integration of deworming with safe water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) activities. Adequate knowledge and a positive attitude towards SCH are critical to practicing those interventions. However, data on the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) level in school and community settings is limited in Ethiopia.

METHODS

School and community-based cross-sectional studies were conducted from February to June 2023 among 634 school-aged children (SAC) and 558 adults. A pre-tested questionnaire was used to collect socio-demographic and KAP data. Records were entered and analyzed using SPSS software version 21. Correct responses for each of the KAP questions were scored as one, while incorrect or 'I don't know' responses were scored as zero. Good knowledge, a positive attitude and good practice were declared if percentage scores were ≥ 80%, ≥ 90% and ≥ 75%, respectively.

RESULTS

Only 229 (19.2%) respondents, comprising 91 (14.4%) SAC and 138 (24.7%) adults, had ever heard of SCH. Adults, males, and urban residents had higher awareness level compared to their respective counterparts (p < 0.05). Only 28.4% of aware respondents knew that swimming or bathing in freshwater is a risk factor for schistosoma infection; 10.9% knew the etiologic agent; and 14.4% mentioned at least one sign and symptom associated with SCH. The majority (97.8%) of the respondents were willing to take therapeutic drugs, but only 37.6% believed that SCH is a serious disease. Regarding risky practices, 89.5% practiced swimming or bathing in freshwater, and 25.3% had no access to piped water. Among the aware respondents, only 18 (7.9%) had good knowledge, while 30 (13.1%) had a positive attitude towards SCH. Ninety-nine (43.2%) respondents had good Schistosoma infection prevention practices.

CONCLUSIONS

The knowledge, attitude, and preventive practice level towards schistosomiasis are low in the study area. Therefore, strengthening school and community-based health education, along with mass drug administration (MDA), WASH, and a vector control program, is recommended for preventing SCH.

Hygiene practices and factors influencing intestinal parasites among food handlers in the province of Belgarn, Saudi Arabia

Background

This study aimed to evaluate the association between socio-demographic status, and hygienic habits among food handlers with intestinal parasitic infections.

Methods

It was a cross-sectional study in which 112 participants were recruited, from Belgarn province of Saudi Arabia. The descriptive analysis was used to evaluate demographic data and categorical variables. The association between sociodemographic characteristics and Relative Risk regression analysis was performed for each investigated factor. p-value of <0.05, was assumed to be statistically significant.

Results

One hundred and twelve food handlers with a mean age of 33.5 ± 9.2 years were included in this study. The food handlers were from 15 different countries (11 Asians and four Africans). The majority of the food handlers were cooks (87, 77.7%), and waiters and dish washers (24, 21.4%). Among them, 106 (94.6%) used uniforms, and gloves at work. In hand washing practices, 104 (92.9%) wash their hands with soap before handling and preparing food and eight (7.1%) wash without soap, 98 (87.5%) wash with soap before meals and 14 (12.5%) wash without soap, 105 (93.8%) wash with soap after visiting toilets and seven (6.2%) wash without soap. Twenty-five (42.3%) of infected food handlers are not used to trim their fingernails. Intestinal infection was observed in 59 (52.68%) participants with mean age (32.5 ± 8.1 years) for infected participants.

Conclusion

In this study, food handlers had a high prevalence of intestinal parasites. Although some of the food handlers had a high level of education, the infection with intestinal parasites was detected. In addition to regular screening for intestinal parasites among food handlers, there is a need for educational programs on proper hygiene habits, modes of transmission and prevention of the infection.

Mono-Parasitic and Poly-Parasitic Intestinal Infections among Children Aged 36-45 Months in East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia

The prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection remains high in developing countries, especially because of geographic and socio-demographic factors. This study aimed to evaluate intestinal parasitic infection, as well as its risk factors, among children aged 36-45 months in a rural area (North Kodi) and an urban area (Kupang) of East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia. Anthropometry, socio-demographic factors and personal hygiene practices were assessed. A total of 214 children participated in the study, and 200 stool samples were collected for intestinal parasite examination. Approximately 30.5% (61/200) of the children were infected with one or more intestinal parasites (67.2%; 41/61 being mono-parasitic infections and 32.8%; 20/61 being poly-parasitic infections). A total of 85 intestinal parasites were detected, consisting of 35.3% (30/85) protozoa and 64.7% (55/85) helminths. The predominant protozoa were Giardia lamblia (43%; 13/30) and Blastocystis spp. (33.3%; 10/30), whereas the predominant helminths were Trichuris trichiura (50.9%; 28/55) and Ascaris lumbricoides (43.6%; 24/55). Moreover, intestinal parasitic infection was associated with rural area (OR 4.5; 95%CI 2.3-8.6); the absence of treatment with deworming drugs (OR 2.56; 95%CI 1.3-5.0); sanitation facilities without a septic tank (OR 4.3; 95%CI 2.1-8.5); unclean water as a source of drinking water (OR 4.67; 95%CI 2.4-9.4); no handwashing practice after defecation (OR 3.2; 95%CI 1.4-7.3); and stunted children (OR 4.4; 95%CI 2.3-8.3). In conclusion, poly-parasitic infections were common in this study. Poor personal hygiene practice and sanitation factors contributed to the high prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection in 36-45-month-old children in East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia.

Household caregivers' knowledge and control of helminthiasis in preschool children in a rural community of Enugu state, Nigeria

Helminthiasis causes iron deficiency anemia, pica, growth, and mental retardation in children. Deworming exercises are being included as part of various interventional programs to reduce the disease burden. However, the success or failure of such activities in terms of household caregivers' knowledge and practice of deworming is not usually adequately evaluated, thus this study. This was a cross-sectional descriptive study carried out in the rural community of Enugu State, Nigeria. Pretested semi-structured interviewer-administered questionnaire was used. Inferential statistics, χ² test, and t-test were also used in the analysis for categorical and continuous variables, respectively. A total of 294 preschool children and 250 caregivers were studied. Among the caregivers, 212 (71.9%) had good knowledge and 149 (50.5%) had good practice of deworming. There was a statistically significant association between the age of respondents and knowledge score (χ²  = 6.471, p = 0.039) and between the educational level of respondents and practice score (χ²  = 30.632, p < 0.001). Most respondents in the rural community had a good knowledge of worm infestation and only half had good practice of deworming. Also, there was a significant difference between the age of respondents and knowledge of helminthiasis and between the educational level of respondents and deworming activities of respondents.

Prevalence of Intestinal Parasites and Schistosoma mansoni and Associated Factors among Fishermen at Lake Tana, Northwest Ethiopia

Background

Intestinal parasites and Schistosoma mansoni infections adversely affect the health of humans in the world especially in sub-Saharan African countries including Ethiopia. Fishermen who spend most of their time in water bodies are supposed to be at high risk of schistosomiasis and other water-born parasites. However, the magnitude of these parasitic infections and their determinant factors are not well addressed.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted at Lake Tana among 388 fishermen from March to May 2021. Questionnaire data was collected through face to face interview. Stool sample from each participant was processed by the Kato-Katz and spontaneous tube sedimentation techniques. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26.

Results

One hundred sixty four (42.3%) and 88 (22.7%) participants were infected by intestinal parasites and Schistosoma mansoni, respectively. One hundred twenty two (31.4%) and 42 (10.8%) participants were infected by soil-transmitted helminths and intestinal protozoa, respectively. Attending only primary school (AOR = 2.02, p = 0.014) or being illiterate (AOR = 2.54, p = 0.004) and not washing hands before meal (AOR = 2.23, p = 0.007) were significantly associated with intestinal parasitic infections. Illiterate educational status (AOR = 2.37, p = 0.022), fishing by bargee (AOR = 2.43, p = 0.005), fishing ≥4 days per week (AOR = 2.27, p = 0.029), swimming habit (AOR = 3.03, p = 0.030), and participation in irrigation (AOR = 3.09, p ≤ 0.001) predispose fishermen to S. mansoni infection.

Conclusion

Intestinal parasites and S. mansoni infections are highly prevalent among fishermen at Lake Tana basin. Low education level and frequent water contact predispose fishermen for intestinal parasites and S. mansoni. Therefore, health education to fishermen on intestinal parasites and S. mansoni infection and regular deworming should be advocated.

A systematic review and meta-analysis on prevalence and distribution of Taenia and Echinococcus infections in Ethiopia

Background

Tapeworm infections are among the tropical neglected parasitic diseases endemically occurring in Ethiopia. This systematic review and meta-analysis aims at estimating the pooled prevalence and distribution of Taenia and Echinococcus infections in humans and animals from reports from Ethiopia.

Methods

The systematic search was conducted in four bibliographic databases (PubMed, Google Scholar, Africa Journal Online and Science Direct). Additional data were retrieved from grey literature. Studies that met the inclusion criteria were considered for the systematic review and meta-analysis. The meta-analysis was conducted using MetaXL add-in for Microsoft Excel. Heterogeneity and inconsistency were evaluated using Cochran’s Q and I² statistics, respectively.

Results

The study provides a country-based database of Taenia and Echinococcus infections consisting of 311 datasets from 201 publications which were mostly abattoir surveys; of these, 251 datasets were subjected to meta-analysis. Most of the studies were from Oromia (32.8%) followed by Amhara (22.9%) regional states. The pooled prevalence of cystic echinococcosis in intermediate and accidental hosts was calculated as 22% (95% CI 18–26%) and high study variability (Q = 24,420.65, I² = 100%, P = 0.000). Moreover, a pooled prevalence of Echinococcus infections in final hosts was calculated as 33% (95% CI 20–48%) and low study variability (Q = 17.24, I² = 65%, P = 0.001). Similarly, study subjects (human, cattle, sheep, goat and wolf) were infected by Taenia spp. with pooled prevalence of 3% (95% CI 2–4%) and moderate study variability (Q = 279.07, I² = 89, P = 0.000). Meanwhile, the pooled prevalence of Taenia hydatigena, T. ovis and T. multiceps infections in intermediate hosts were calculated as 38%, 14% and 5%, respectively. The random effect meta-analysis of bovine cysticercosis showed a pooled prevalence of 7% (95% CI 5–9%) and high study variability was of (Q = 4458.76; I² = 99%, P = 0.000). Significant differences in prevalence of Taenia and Echinococcus infections between study sites or different livestock origins have been reported.

Conclusion

The study evidenced a comprehensive dataset on the prevalence and distribution of Taenia and Echinococcus infections at different interfaces by regions and hosts and hence can aid in the design of more effective control strategies.

Graphical Abstract

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13071-021-04925-w.

Prevalence of intestinal parasite infections and associated risk factors among patients of Jimma health center requested for stool examination, Jimma, Ethiopia

BACKGROUND

Intestinal parasitic infections are still a serious public health problem in poor and developing countries like Ethiopia. Local epidemiological data is crucial to design and monitor prevention and control strategies. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of intestinal parasite infections and associated risk factors among patients requested for stool examination at Jimma health center, Southwest, Ethiopia.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted among a total of 384 patients in Jimma health center, Southwest, Ethiopia. Stool samples were collected and examined using direct wet-mount and formal-ether concentration techniques. Data were analyzed using the Chi-Square (X2) test and SPPS Version 24 and P Value<0.05 was considered for statistically significance.

RESULTS

The overall prevalence of intestinal parasite infections was found to be 79(20.6%). The infection rate was slightly higher in females 261(68%) than in males 123(32%). Eight types of intestinal parasites were identified and the highest prevalence was Giardia lamblia 25(6.5%) followed by A. lumbricoides 22(5.7%). Single parasitic infection was found among 67(17.4%) of the patients and double infection was 12(3.1%). Shoe wearing habits, Status of fingernail, Handwashing before a meal and after defecation, Source of water for bathing and drinking were significant factors(p<0.05) for intestinal parasitic infection.

CONCLUSION

A relatively low prevalence of intestinal parasite infections was observed among patients of Jimma health center requested for the stool examination.

Enteroparasitism in Hard-to-Reach Community Dwellers: A Cross-Sectional Study in Ga West Municipality in Ghana

Ga West Municipality in Ghana is predominantly rural with about forty-eight hard-to-reach communities. Several infectious diseases such as Buruli ulcer, tuberculosis, yaws, schistosomiasis, and malaria are prevalent in the municipality. However, the prevalence and characteristics of enteroparasites in the municipality are unknown. Therefore, this cross-sectional study determined the prevalence of enteroparasites in these hard-to-reach communities. Samples were collected from five communities, namely, Opah, Otuaplem, Dedeman, Onyansana, and Manchie. A total of 538 stool samples were collected from the community dwellers. Each sample was examined with eosin-saline wet preparation and formol-ether concentration technique. Body mass index, haemoglobin, and albumin concentrations were used to assess nutritional status. Seven different parasite species were identified in 178 community dwellers (33.1% prevalence (95% CI: 0.29–0.37)). The individual prevalence of the identified parasites was Schistosoma mansoni (13.4%), Entamoeba histolytica (7.2%), Ascaris lumbricoides (6.9%), Giardia lamblia (5.0%), hookworm (4.8%), Strongyloides stercoralis (4.8%), and Balantidium coli (1.6%). Among the 178 parasitized individuals, 68.0% were singly infected while 31.5% had dual parasitism. Significantly higher infections were associated with Onyansana dwellers (p = 0.019), participants aged 16–20 years (p = 0.006), unmarried participants (p < 0.001), those without formal education (p = 0.044), and crop farmers (p = 0.044). However, among the Akan tribe (p = 0.015), Christians (p = 0.03), and participants with higher incomes (p = 0.012), infections were found to be lower. Compared to monoparasitism, dual parasitism was significantly associated with underweight (17.8 vs. 20.3 kg/m²), anaemia (7.7 vs. 9.8 g/dL), and malnutrition (27.6 vs. 31.9 g/L of albumin concentration). These findings underscore the fact that the Ga West Municipality is heavily burdened with different species of enteroparasites. Therefore, education on personal hygiene to reduce parasitic infections must be intensified while implementing regular mass deworming exercise in the municipality.

Prevalence and pattern of waterborne parasitic infections in eastern Africa: A systematic scoping review

Waterborne parasitic diseases form one of common and important public health and economic problems in low- and middle-income countries, though little is known on the burden and patterns of these diseases in most regions. This systematic scoping review informs on the prevalence and pattern of waterborne parasitic infections in eastern Africa from 1st of January 1941 to 31st of December 2019. The review found limited number of published studies on waterborne parasitic diseases, though 13 of the 15 studied countries in eastern Africa provided one or more published report(s) totalling 47 reports. Focus of studies was mainly on schistosomiasis where 44.8% of the 47 retrieved studies reported it. Other frequently reported diseases were giardiasis (23.4% of reports), soil-transmitted helminths (23.4%) and amoebiasis (21.3%). Rarely reported diseases were malaria, cryptosporidiosis, isosporiasis, dracunculiasis and trichomoniasis. Based on parasitological examinations, schistosomiasis prevalence ranged from 17 to 33% in Burundi, 1.9 to 73.9% in Ethiopia, 2.1 to 18% in Kenya, 7.2 to 88.6% in Uganda, 22.9 to 86.3% in Tanzania, 27.2 to 65.8% in Somalia, 15 to >50% in Mauritius, 2.4% in Eritrea and 5.0 to 93.7% in Madagascar. Amoebiasis prevalence was 4.6–15,3% (Ethiopia), 5.9–58.3% (Kenya), 54.5% (Rwanda), 0.7–2.7% (Sudan), 19.93% (Uganda) and 4.5–5.0% (Seychelles). Giardiasis prevalence was 0.6–55.0% (Ethiopia), 16.6% (Kenya), 3.6% (Rwanda), 21.1% (Sudan), 40.7% (Uganda), 45.0% (Eritrea) and 3.3–6.0% (Seychelles). Soil-transmitted helminths prevalence was 41.7–52.4% (Ethiopia), 32.4–40.7% (Kenya), 9997 cases (Rwanda), 85.0% (Somalia), 4.7% (Madagascar) and 1.1–84% (Seychelles), Ascaris lumbricoides, Trichuris trichiura and hookworms were the most common helminths detected. Malaria prevalence was 2.9–4.31% (Ethiopia), an annual episode of 9 million people (Sudan), 13.0% (Tanzania), 146 hospital cases (Madagascar), 1.4–2.0% (Seychelles) and <5.0% in Djibouti. It is also observed that >50% of the populations in eastern Africa region lack improved drinking water sources or sanitation facilities. This may account for the observed high prevalence of the diseases. The author also suggests likely underestimation of the prevalence as most waterborne parasitic diseases are neglected and cases likely only recorded and left unpublished in health facilities. Thus for a thorough mapping of burdens of these diseases, grey literature, including hospital records must be reviewed while interventions focusing on improved water and sanitation are likely to reduce the burden considerably.

Predictors Associated With Knowledge and Practice of Helminthic Infection Prevention Among Rural School-Aged Children's Parents in Bangladesh: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Parasitic infection has become a major public health concern in light of its increasing prevalence in developing countries, particularly in rural settings. Helminthic infections disproportionately affect children, and therefore appropriate parental knowledge and practical approaches to transmission prevention are essential. The objective of this study was to evaluate the level of knowledge and implementation measures aimed at preventing helminthic infection among rural school-aged children's parents in Bangladesh.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among the parents of 449 rural school-aged children residing in 17 villages of the Cumilla district in Bangladesh. Participants completed the survey examining socio-demographic variables as well as questions regarding knowledge and practice of helminthic infection prevention (HIP).

Results: Local knowledge about children's HIP was inadequate among their parents (81.5%). Furthermore, actual implementation of HIP measures was poor (42.1%). Knowledge of HIP was significantly associated with parental religion, education, occupation, number of family members, family income, housing conditions, and sanitation system. In addition, practice of HIP was significantly associated with the aforementioned factors, as well as with water source and knowledge of HIP.

Conclusion: Lack of concern about parasitic infection among children's parents and their untoward effects on children's health is pervasive in rural parental settings, along with ignorance on helminthic transmission and its prevention. Public education programs aimed at addressing these glaring HIP awareness deficits are needed in Bangladesh.

Identification of risk areas and practices for Taenia saginata taeniosis/cysticercosis in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Bovine cysticercosis (BCC) is an infection of cattle with the metacestode stage of Taenia saginata, the beef tapeworm, which causes taeniosis in humans. BCC is responsible for considerable economic losses in the meat sector worldwide. This systematic review and meta-analysis summarizes the prevalence, risk factors and treatment efforts made so far on T. saginata infections in Ethiopia, providing a detailed analysis of different factors influencing the varying prevalence estimates in Ethiopia to gain more insight into the occurrence and risk factors of T. saginata taeniosis and cysticercosis to date.

Methods

A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted on data collected from published and grey literature accessed through an electronic database and manual search.

Results

The literature search resulted in 776 outputs of which 132 conformed to the predefined criteria. The average zonal prevalence of meat inspection-based BCC ranged from 2% in Buno-Bedele to 24.6% in Sidama zone. The pooled prevalence of BCC was influenced by the number of muscle/organs inspected, ranging from 3.4% (95% CI: 1.7–5.1%) using fewer predilection sites to 19.4% (95% CI: 13.3–25.4%) using inspection of a maximum number of predilection sites. None of the tested variables were significantly associated with BCC. Questionnaire-based taeniosis ranged between 19.0% in Halaba special woreda to 70.0% in Gedeo zone and stool test-based taeniosis varied from 0.6% in central Tigray to 10.7% in Gurage zone. Questionnaire-based prevalence of taeniosis was higher in people with a frequent raw beef consumption habit (pooled OR, pOR: 10.5, 95% CI: 6.0–17.9), adults (pOR: 2.5, 95% CI: 1.7–3.6), men (pOR: 2.8, 95% CI: 2.1–3.6), and Christians (pOR: 2.0, 95% CI: 1.4–2.8) compared to less frequent raw beef consumers, younger people, women and Muslims, respectively.

Conclusions

This review revealed a widespread but variable occurrence of BCC and taeniosis in Ethiopian regions and zones, urging for harmonized and enhanced detection for improved control of the parasite. Accurate prevalence estimates using more sensitive tests, detailed risk factor analysis, as well as data on financial losses are needed to develop effective control strategies for the Ethiopian epidemiologic condition.

Prevalence and Intensity of Soil-Transmitted Helminth Infection among Rural Community of Southwest Ethiopia: A Community-Based Study

Background

Helminths are significant contributors to global health problems. Subgroup soil-transmitted helminths are among the listed neglected tropical diseases. The rural inhabitants often suffer from heavy infection, particularly children and pregnant women.

Objective

The study aimed at determining the magnitude and intensity of soil-transmitted helminth infection and associated risk factors in the study area where the prevalence and intensity of the infection are yet unknown at the community level.

Method

A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted between April and June 2016 on 377 individuals. Systematic random sampling was utilized to select the households. Lottery method was used for study subject selection in the households. Sociodemographic and risk factor data were collected using a pretested questionnaire. Parasitological tests were processed using Kato-Katz thick smear and duplicate direct wet mount analysis of the stool sample.

Results

A total of 377 subjects aged from 2 to 55 years were enrolled in the study, of which 211 were female (56%) and 166 were male (44%). The overall prevalence of soil-transmitted helminths was 265 (70.3%). The females shared more (36.6%, 138) as compared to males (33.7%, 127) at P < 0.05. Of all identified soil-transmitted helminths, Trichuris trichiura was the predominant infectious agent (66.8%, 252) followed by Ascaris lumbricoides (16.4%, 62) and hookworm (14.1%, 53). Gender (AOR: 1.67 (95% CI: 1.034-2.706)), lack of fruit washing before consumption (AOR: 1.7 (95% CI: 1.1-2.6)), open defecation habit (AOR: 1.75 (95% CI: 0.921-3.338)), and drinking untreated water (AOR: 1.994 (95% CI: 1.019-3.90)) were significantly associated with soil-transmitted helminth infection.

Conclusion

High prevalence of STH infection was still an important health issue of the community even after the implementation of the health extension program. Hence, intervention considering all population of the residents as eligible to deworm and health education are mandatory.

Schistosoma mansoni infection and risk factors among the fishermen of Lake Hawassa, southern Ethiopia

Schistosomiasis is a neglected tropical parasitic disease caused by different species of genus Schistosoma. Schistosoma mansoni causes a severe intestinal parasitic infection of high public and medical importance in Ethiopia. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of, and risk factors for, S. mansoni infection among the fishermen of Lake Hawassa, southern Ethiopia, using a cross-sectional study design. A total of 243 fishermen were selected from the Hawassa Town Fishermen Association's list in 2013. Data on socio-demographic characteristics and risk factors were collected from the fishermen using semi-structured questionnaires. Stool samples were collected and processed using the Kato-Katz thick smear technique. The overall prevalence of S. mansoni among the fishermen was 29.21% and the mean intensity of infection was 158.88 eggs per gram (EPG). The overall prevalence of intestinal helminths, including S. mansoni, was 69.54%. Similar prevalences of S. mansoni were recorded in age groups 15-19, 20-24 and 25-29 years: 31.82%, 31.75% and 31.94%, respectively. Fishermen who swam a minimum of once a week in Lake Hawassa were 2.92 times (95% CI: 1.554, 5.502) more likely to have acquired S. mansoni infection than those who swam in the lake less than once a week. The results indicate moderate endemicity of S. mansoni infection among the fishermen of Lake Hawassa. These fishermen could be a potentially high-risk group for S. mansoni infection and might be responsible for the transmission of infection to other segments of the community visiting the lake for recreation. Moreover, a high prevalence of soil-transmitted helminths (STHs) was recorded among the fishermen. Integrated prevention and control strategies for schistosomiasis and STHs by different sectors are needed to tackle this problem.

Enteroparasitism and Risk Factors Associated with Clinical Manifestations in Children and Adults of Jalisco State in Western Mexico

Objectives

To determine the prevalence and risk factors associated with intestinal parasites in the population of San Juan Cosala, Jalisco, Mexico.

Methods

A total of 277 samples from 104 participants were analysed using direct smear, flotation, formaldehyde/ethyl acetate, and modified Kinyoun's acid-fast stain methods. The Graham method was applied only for samples from children under 12 years of age for the diagnosis of Enterobius vermicularis.

Results

The prevalence of parasite infections in the study population was 77.9% including: Entamoeba histolytica/E. dispar/E. moshkovskii/E. bangladeshi (37.5%), Giardia intestinalis (11.5%); commensals: Endolimax nana (44.2%), Entamoeba coli (27.9%), Chilomastix mesnili (6.7%) and Iodamoeba bütschlii, (2.9%); emerging intestinal protozoans: Blastocystis spp. (49%), Cryptosporidium spp. (7.7%) and Cyclospora cayetanensis (2.9%); and helminths: Enterobius vermicularis (18.3%) and Ascaris lumbricoides (5.8%). The results also showed that 58.64% of the studied population presented polyparasitism. A significant association was found between protozoan infections and housewives, and houses that were not built with concrete ceilings, brick walls and cement floors (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Polyparasitism was observed in over half the study population. The most prevalent parasite was Blastocystis spp, whilst the prevalence of helminths was less than that of protozoans. The risk factors for infection to intestinal parasites were being a housewife and not having solid brick, cement and concrete materials for house construction.

Prevalence of Intestinal Parasites among Rural Residents of Takestan in North-West of Iran

BACKGROUND

Intestinal parasites are one of the health challenges in developing countries. Decreasing the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) is one of the main aims of health services in these countries. This study was designed to determine the current status of IPIs in rural residents of Takestan a town located in North West of Iran.

METHODS

A total of 2280 rural residents of Takestan were randomly selected. Data were collected through questionnaire by interviews and laboratory findings obtained by microscopic examination of stool sample including wet smear and formalin ethyl-acetate concentration. A P<0.05 was considered significant, statistically.

RESULTS

In total, 8.7% (199/2280) of participants were positive for at least one intestinal parasite. The prevalence of polyparasitism was 0.7% in study population. Hymenolepis nana was the only helminthic infection which was detected (1/2280). Blastocystis, Entamoeba coli, and Giardia lamblia were the most common IPIs with prevalence of 3.6%, 2.9%, and 1.6%, respectively. Statistically, the prevalence of IPIs showed significant differences among villages (P<0.01) and age groups (P<0.001), and also habit of eating raw vegetables (P<0.005), whereas, the difference was insignificant in terms of sex, education level, and occupation.

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of IPIs in rural residents of the study area is considerably low and this reduction was very impressive about helminthic infections.

Epidemiology of Taenia saginata taeniosis/cysticercosis: a systematic review of the distribution in southern and eastern Africa

Background

The beef tapeworm, Taenia saginata, causing cysticercosis in bovines and taeniosis in humans, is thought to have a global distribution. In eastern and southern Africa, cattle production plays a crucial role in the economy, but a clear overview of the prevalence of T. saginata in the region is still lacking. This review aims to summarize existing knowledge on T. saginata taeniosis and bovine cysticercosis distribution in eastern and southern Africa.

Methods

A systematic review was conducted, that gathered published and grey literature, including OIE reports, concerning T. saginata taeniosis and bovine cysticercosis in eastern and southern Africa published between January 1st, 1990 and December 31st, 2017.

Results

A total of 1232 records were initially retrieved, with 78 full text articles retained for inclusion in the database. Unspecified taeniosis cases were reported for Angola, Ethiopia, Kenya, Madagascar, Malawi, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda and Zambia, whereas T. saginata taeniosis cases were found for Ethiopia, Kenya, South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe. The prevalence of taeniosis ranged between 0.2–8.1% based on microscopy, and between 0.12–19.7% based on coproAg-ELISA. In Ethiopia, the percentage of tapeworm self-reporting was high (45.0–64.2%), and a substantial number of anthelmintic treatments were reported to be sold in towns. The presence of bovine cysticercosis was reported in all 27 countries/territories included in the study, except for Rwanda and Somalia, Comoros, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mayotte, Seychelles and Socotra. The prevalence of cysticercosis ranged between 0.02–26.3% based on meat inspection, and between 6.1–34.9% based on Ag-ELISA.

Conclusions

Although T. saginata has been reported in the majority of countries/territories of the study area, T. saginata taeniosis/cysticercosis remains a largely ignored condition, probably due to the absence of symptoms in cattle, the lack of data on its economic impact, and the fact that human taeniosis is considered a minor health problem. However, the occurrence of bovine cysticercosis is a clear sign of inadequate sanitation, insufficient meat inspection, and culinary habits that may favour transmission. Measures to reduce transmission of T. saginata are therefore warranted and the infection should be properly monitored.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s13071-018-3163-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Prevalence of intestinal parasites versus knowledge, attitude and practices (KAPs) with special emphasis to Schistosoma mansoni among individuals who have river water contact in Addiremets town, Western Tigray, Ethiopia

Background

Intestinal parasite infections are major public health problems in resource-limited countries that adversely affect the well-being of millions. Among these, intestinal schistosomiasis is a serious public health problem in tropical and sub-tropical countries.

Methods

A Community based cross sectional study was conducted from February to April 2017 in Addiremets town, Ethiopia. Socio-demographic associated risk factors and knowledge, attitude and practices of individuals regarding intestinal parasite infection including schistosomiasis were collected from 411 study participants using pretested structured questionnaires. From each study participant, a fresh stool sample was collected and direct microscopy, formol-ether concentration and Kato- Katz techniques were performed. Snails were checked and collected from the nearby study area river. The collected data was entered and analyzed using SPSS version 20. Bi-variant and multiple logistic regressions were used for correlation analysis. A P <0.05 was considered as statistically significant.

Result

The overall intestinal parasite prevalence was 51.3% (211/411). The most prevalent parasites were S. mansoni 26.3%(108/411) and Hookworm 23.1%(95/411). The prevalence of intestinal parasites among males and females were 54.1%(131/242) and 47.3%(80/169) respectively. The highest proportion of parasite infection was reported among the age group of 5–9 year old participants, at 70.6%(36/51). The prevalence of S. mansoni was 26.3% (108/411) with mean infection intensity of 218 eggs per gram (range: 24 to 1728). Among study participants, 94.4% had good knowledge while 35.9% of them had poor practices towards intestinal parasite and Schistosomes infection prevention.

Conclusion

High prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection was observed in Addiremets town and the most common parasites identified were S. mansoni and Hookworm. Most study participants had light infection intensity of Schistosomiasis, Ascariasis and Hookworm infection. Majority of the participants in the study area had good knowledge and positive attitude about intestinal parasitic infection and schistosomiasis control. Shells of Biomphalaria species, Bulinus species and Physa species were collected from the Mytsaeda river shore.

The role of pre-school teachers in the control of soil-transmitted helminthes in coastal region, Kenya

Background

Soil transmitted helminthes (STH) are significant health problems among school-age children. In Kenya’s coastal region, the prevalence among pre-school age children (PSAC) ranges from 27.8 to 66.7 %. Whereas some pre-schools are as far as 7 km from the nearest primary schools, the National School-Based Deworming Programme (NSBDP) requires the pre-school teachers to walk with the children to primary schools for deworming by trained primary school teachers. The long distances may contribute in making drug delivery ineffective and unsustainable.

Methods

To assess the pre-school teachers’ knowledge, experiences and perceptions of STH and the NSBDP, a cross-sectional study using qualitative methods was conducted in four sub-counties of the Coast Region. Through purposive sampling, 41 pre-schools which are 2 or more kilometers away from a primary school were selected and in-depth interviews administered to the teachers. Separate in-depth interviews were administered to 34 community health extension workers, 40 opinion leaders and 38 primary school teachers all purposively selected to assess their perceptions of the role of pre-school teachers in the NSBDP. Data was audio recorded, transcribed, coded and analyzed manually by study themes.

Results

A third of the pre-school teachers were aware of signs of STHs and a half indicated that poor hygiene and sanitation practices are major causes. A majority of the pre-school teachers reported that health education and environmental sanitation are key control methods. Majority (39) had received information on NSBDP from various sources and all took part in community sensitization and in treating the pre-school children. A large majority of all study participants indicated that treating the children at pre-schools is ideal for increased coverage. Majority of the pre-school teachers perceived the NSBDP as important in improving the health status of the children. All study participants felt that the parents needed to be given adequate information on STHs and training the pre-school teachers to assist in community sensitization and drug administration would be useful.

Conclusion

Pre-school teachers are a potential resource to the NSBDP that should be utilized to instill proper water and sanitation practices to the young children and assist in community sensitization. They should be empowered and allowed to administer treatment for STH control. County Governments, their current employers should find ways of engaging them in worm control efforts.

Trial registration

KEMRI SSC 2547, Registered 22 July 2013.

Intestinal polyparasitism with special emphasis to soil-transmitted helminths among residents around Gilgel Gibe Dam, Southwest Ethiopia: a community based survey

BACKGROUND

One third of the world population is estimated to be infected with intestinal parasites. The most affected people are children and the poor people living in tropics and subtropics. Polyparasitism (the concurrent infection with multiple intestinal parasite species) is found to be the norm among the same population although accurate estimate of its magnitude is unknown. It was found that polyparasitism might have a greater impact on morbidity than single species infection which might also increase susceptibility to other infections. Therefore, this study aimed at determining the prevalence and distribution of intestinal polyparasitism with special emphasis on Soil-Transmitted Helminths (STH) among residents around Gilgel Gibe dam located in Jimma zone of Oromia regional state, Ethiopia.

METHODS

A total of 1,021 participants were recruited in this study and provided stool samples for parasitological examination. Direct wet mount and Kato-Katz techniques were employed for stool examination. Pearson chi-square test was employed to assess the association of infection status and polyparasitism with gender and age group of the study participants.

RESULTS

Five hundred thirty two individuals were infected with at least one parasite, providing the overall prevalence of 52.1%. Among positive individuals, 405 (76.1%), 114 (21.4%), and 13 (2.5%) individuals were infected with only one, two and three species of parasites, respectively. The overall prevalence of intestinal polyparasitism observed among the study participants was 12.4% (127/1,021). The predominant STH was hookworm, with a prevalence of 44.1%. Hookworm and Ascaris lumbricoides were the most frequently recorded combination in cases of polyparasitic infection. The study revealed that there was no significant difference in the distribution of polyparasitism with regard to age group and sex of the study participants (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The study indicated the presence of high prevalence of parasites as well as distribution of polyparasitism in the area. Moreover, the detection of Schistosoma mansoni in the community living within close proximity of the newly constructed dam would be taken as an indication of future risk factor. Further investigation on the predictors of polyparasitism and the assessment of effects of polyparasitism on the population are needed. Finally, there is a need to undertake integrated control strategies which involve improved sanitation, health education and chemotherapy that targets the whole community instead of only certain segments of populations.