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Highlights • Intestinal parasitic infections are likely going to be increasingly common even in developed countries. • While most of the infections are mild, severe cases can result in high morbidity and mortality. • Primary care physicians seeing patients with risk factors for intestinal parasitic infections should be vigilant. • If the clinical suspicion is high, physicians should consider further investigations or empirical anti-parasitic treatment, Introduction Intestinal parasitic infections are a health burden to developing countries, but can also become more prevalent worldwide, even in developed countries, with the advent of globalization. While most of these infections are benign, some may be associated with acute infections with high morbidity and mortality rates. Case presentation A 36 years old patient presented with toxic megacolon with poly-helminthic infections, likely a result of raw food ingestion. She subsequently required multiple surgeries with a total colectectomy and small bowel resection, and ended up with an end-ileostomy. Discussion Intestinal polyparasitism has been reported in undeveloped countries, but it appears that such a trend can be found in developed countries as well. Clinicians, especially those practicing in countries with large expatriate or immigrant worker populations, should be aware of this trend and adjust treatment protocols accordingly. Conclusion Even in countries whereby intestinal parasitic infections are not common, clinicians should have a heightened awareness of the possibility for such infections to be present, especially in returning travellers, expatriate or immigrant populations.

While the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections (IPI) has been most commonly studied in African and Asian populations, less is known about the prevalence rates of IPI in European children, as well as the potential risk factors that favor the spread of parasites. We aimed to review published evidence on the prevalence rates of IPI in children residing in Europe, and to quantitatively synthesize the results of published studies. We searched Medline from 1 January 2015 to 1 April 2021 to address the most recently published prevalence patterns of IPI in European children. Random-effects meta-analyses were performed by type of IPI infection, age group and sex, depending on data availability. Of the 967 potentially relevant articles, eight eligible cross-sectional studies were included in this analysis, yielding a sample of 3376 children (0–19 years). The overall prevalence rate was 5.9% for any IPI in children residing in European countries. Blastocystis hominis was the most commonly detected parasite yielding a prevalence rate of 10.7%. Other parasites included Entamoeba coli, Endolimax nana, and Blastocystis hominis. Studies focusing on specific types of parasites showed prevalence rates ranging from 1.3% for Cryptosporidium to 68.3% for Dientamoeba fragilis. Despite the scarce literature, the present review showed relatively low prevalence rates of IPI in Europe. Future studies accounting for proper diagnostic methods used for the detection of parasites and including information on potential sociodemographic factors, such as travelling history and history of immigration, are needed to guide clinicians about which children to test, as well as when and how to test children for IPI.

Objective In marginalized setting, under-nutrition and illnesses due to infectious agents create a vicious circle. In our previous study, we reported that easy-to-do hand hygiene interventions were effective in preventing intestinal parasite infections (IPIs) and reduce the rate of anaemia among school-aged children. The aim of this study was to assess the pattern of associations between IPIs, anaemia and diarrhoea among the school-aged children and to explore if the observed impact of hand-washing and nail clipping interventions in our findings was similar across children with different baseline demographic and disease characteristics. The study was based on the analysis of data that was collected during the randomized controlled trial and hence have used the same study participants and study area. Results Children with IPIs had a much higher chance of also being anaemic (AOR 2.09, 95% CI 1.15–3.80), having diarrhoea (AOR 2.83, 95% CI 1.57–5.09), and vice versa. Anaemia and diarrhoea were very strongly related (AOR 9.62, 95% CI 5.18–17.85). Overall, hand-washing with soap at key times and weekly nail clipping were efficacious in preventing intestinal parasite re-infection among children despite the differences in baseline demographic characteristics. Trial registration: NCT01619254 (June 09/2012)

Background: Effective and efficient use of technological advances will ease public health interventions and also help in reaching a larger population. Geographic Information System (GIS) and Foldscope are two such technologies, which have promising utilities in public health. Identifying intestinal parasitic infections early through feasible technologies will help in their effective management. With this objective, this study was conducted to assess the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections among school children in southern districts of Karnataka, India. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among randomly selected 10 urban, 10 rural, and 5 tribal schools of southern districts of Karnataka. A total of 1052 children studying in these schools were selected. Stool samples were collected and examined under Foldscope for parasitic infestation. The schools where children with worm infestations present were plotted in the GIS map. Findings: Among 1052 children included in this study, 139 (13.2%) were found to have an intestinal parasitic infestation. Among these children, 24.6% were in the age group of 5–9 years, 12.2% were males, and 14.4% were females. Urban students had higher odds (2.765) of parasitic infections compared to rural students. Mean age, height, and weight were significantly lesser among subjects with a worm infestation. Interpretation: Utility of Foldscope and GIS was found to be feasible and effective in the detection and mapping of parasitic infestations. The prevalence of parasitic infestation was found to be high among urban school children. Age, weight, height, and urban residence were found to be the major predictors of outcome.

Background The prevalence of Plasmodium falciparum and Intestinal Parasitic Infections (IPIs) - with the corresponding pathogenesis among children remain uncertain. This study aimed at determining the prevalence and the outcomes (including anaemia) of the respective infections and co-infections. Anaemia is a condition in which the number of red blood cells transporting oxygen to the various body parts is not sufficient to meet the needs of the body. Methods This was a cross sectional study conducted among 476-refugee camp school children. Kato-Katz technique was used to screen stool samples for intestinal parasites. Microscopy was used for malaria testing while the portable Haemoglobin (Hb) calorimeter was used to measure haemoglobin concentration. Results The overall prevalence of the mixed infections was 63.03%. Plasmodium falciparum was most prevalent of the single infections 262(55.04%) followed by Taenia spp. 14 (2.9%), Schistosoma mansoni 12(2.5%), Giardia lamblia 7 (2.9%), Trichuris trichiura 2(0.4%), Hookworm 2(0.4%) and Strongyloides stercoralis 1(0.2%). The odds of developing simple or uncomplicated malaria infection or anaemia was 14 times higher in individuals with dual co-infection with Plasmodium falciparum + Taenia sp. compared to single parasitic infection (Odds = 14.13, P = 0.019). Co-infection with Plasmodium falciparum + Taenia spp, was a strong predictor of Malaria and anaemia. Conclusion This study shows that Plasmodium falciparum and Taenia spp. co-infections is a stronger predictor of malaria and anaemia. The prevalence of malaria and anaemia remains higher than the other regions in Uganda outside restricted settlements. The findings of this study underline the need for pragmatic intervention programmes to reduce burden of the co-infections in the study area and similar settlements. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12879-019-3939-x) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Background Globally, urogenital and intestinal parasitosis remain significant health challenges. They are associated with rising morbidity, death, and many harmful outcomes. A little is known concerning parasitosis and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Our study planned to investigate the urogenital and intestinal parasitic infections among type 2 diabetes patients compare to non-diabetic (Control) individuals and examine the intensity of helminthiasis in both groups. Methods At Kosti Teaching Hospital (Sudan), 300 Urine and 300 stool samples have collected from 150 type 2 diabetes and 150 control individuals, along with the socio-demographic data using a structured questionnaire. The parasitic infections were examined by direct sedimentation technique for urine specimens. Whereas, for fecal samples, simple-direct saline, formal-ether concentration, Kato-Katz, and modified Ziehl–Neelsen techniques were used. Results Out of 150 type 2 diabetes patients studied, 31 (20.6%) and 14 (9.3%) had intestinal parasitosis and urogenital schistosomiasis, respectively. Whereas, 16 (10.6%) and 8 (5.3%) of the control group were infected, respectively. Compared to the control group, the odds of testing positive for either urogenital schistosomiasis (AOR: 2.548, 95% CI: 0.836–7.761, P = 0.100) or intestinal parasitic diseases (AOR: 2.099, 95% CI: 0.973–4.531, P = 0.059) were greater in diabetic individuals. Likewise, the intensities of helminthiasis were much higher in the diabetic patients and positively correlated with the duration of illness. The rate of urogenital schistosomiasis was also significantly different among the disease duration subcategories. Conclusions Our study has highlighted the relationship of type 2 diabetes with urogenital and intestinal parasitic infections and enhanced our knowledge about the frequency of particular urogenital and intestinal parasites as well as the intensity of helminths infection in type 2 diabetes compared to non-diabetic individuals, which are important for further studies.

Background Intestinal parasites are a common problem in the world. The greater proportion of infections is associated with poor water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH). This study was conducted to assess intestinal parasites, WASH condition, and their association in rural Dembiya, northwest Ethiopia. Methods A cross-sectional study was employed. Two hundred twenty-five children aged 6–59 months were included. Mothers were interviewed using a structured questionnaire, and the living environment was observed using checklists. Kato-Katz technique was used to determine the intensity of parasitic infections. Escherichia coli (E. coli) was used as a biological indicator for drinking water quality. Multivariable binary logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify WASH predictors of parasites on the basis of adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) and p

Background Malaria, filariasis, and intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) are common and frequently overlap in developing countries. The prevalence and predictors of these infections were investigated in three different settlements (rural, semi-urban, and urban) of Gabon. Methods During cross-sectional surveys performed from September 2013 to June 2014, 451 individuals were interviewed. In addition, blood and stool samples were analysed for the presence of Plasmodium, filarial roundworm, intestinal protozoan, and helminth infections. Results Intestinal parasitic infections (61.1%), including intestinal protozoa (56.7%) and soil-transmitted helminths (STHs) (22.2%), predominated, whereas Plasmodium falciparum (18.8%), Loa loa (4.7%), and Mansonella perstans (1.1%) were less prevalent. Filariasis and STHs were mainly found in rural settlements, whereas a higher plasmodial infection prevalence rate was observed in the periurban area. The most common IPI was blastocystosis (48.6%), followed by ascaridiasis (13.7%), trichuriasis (11.8%), amoebiasis (9.3%), giardiasis (4.8%), and strongyloidiasis (3.7%). Hookworm was detected in one adult from rural Dienga. Adults had a higher prevalence of Blastocystis hominis and STHs, whereas Giardia duodenalis was more frequently observed among children aged below 5 years (P

Background: In developing countries, diarrhoea is the most common cause of death for children under five years of age, with Giardia lamblia, Cryptosporidium and Entamoeba histolytica as the most frequent pathogenic parasites. Traditional microscopy for stool parasites has poor sensitivity and specificity, while new molecular methods may provide more accurate diagnostics. In poor regions with sample storage hampered by uncertain electricity supply, research would benefit from a method capable of analysing dried stools. Methods: A real-time multiplex PCR method with internal inhibition control was developed for detecting Giardia lamblia, Cryptosporidium hominis/parvum and Entamoeba histolytica directly from stool specimens. Applicability to dried samples was checked by comparing with fresh ones in a small test material. Finally, the assay was applied to dried specimens collected from Guinea-Bissauan children with diarrhoea. Results: The PCR's analytical sensitivity limit was 0.1 ng/ml for G. lamblia DNA, 0.01 ng/ml for E. histolytica DNA and 0.1 ng/ml for Cryptosporidium sp. In the test material, the assay performed similarly with fresh and dried stools. Of the 52 Guinea-Bissauan samples, local microscopy revealed a parasite in 15%, while PCR detected 62% positive for at least one parasite: 44% of the dried samples had Giardia, 23% Cryptosporidium and 0% E. histolytica. Conclusions: Our new multiplex real-time PCR for protozoa presents a sensitive method applicable to dried samples. As proof of concept, it worked well on stools collected from Guinea-Bissauan children with diarrhoea. It provides an epidemiological tool for analysing dried specimens from regions poor in resources.

Background Taenia saginata is an important zoonotic parasite, causing taeniosis in humans and cysticercosis in bovines, the latter being a significant concern for the global beef industry. Many countries in East, Southeast and South Asia are experiencing rapid economic growth, and an increasing number of people in these countries are dependent on the livestock industry. Currently, however, an overview of the prevalence of T. saginata in this region is lacking. In this review, we analysed the available literature on T. saginata taeniosis and bovine cysticercosis for East, Southeast and South Asia. Methods A systematic review was conducted, based on both published and grey literature. Articles published between 1990 and 2017 were mined for information on the occurrence, prevalence, and geographical distribution of T. saginata taeniosis and bovine cysticercosis in East, Southeast and South Asia. Results The presence of T. saginata was described in 15 of 27 countries of the region, including Afghanistan, Cambodia, China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Mongolia, Nepal, Pakistan, Philippines, South Korea, Thailand and Vietnam. The only country that reported an absence of T. saginata is Japan, although sporadic reports of imported cases and unconfirmed reports of autochthonous infections were identified. Nationwide surveys of taeniosis with systematic sample collection and high sample numbers were available for Cambodia, China, Lao PDR, and South Korea, although speciation of Taenia was not always performed. Regional prevalence of taeniosis and bovine cysticercosis in endemic regions ranged between 0.02–42.6%, and 0.76–46.7%, respectively. However, data for bovine cysticercosis were only available for five countries (Japan, Lao PDR, Mongolia, Pakistan and Vietnam). Conclusions The data indicate a widespread occurrence of T. saginata throughout East, Southeast and South Asia. Identification of Taenia spp. in human infections was frequently not performed, leading to gaps in knowledge about the distribution of human tapeworm infections, mainly in regions where different human Taenia species co-occur. A high prevalence of T. saginata taeniosis and bovine cysticercosis may reflect insufficiencies in sanitation, limited health education standards, and insufficient food safety measures. Therefore, there is a need to improve local surveillance, notification, and overall control systems.

BackgroundIntestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) and anaemia are major health problems. This study assessed the prevalence of IPI, anaemia and associated factors among pre-school children in rural areas of the Tigray region, northern Ethiopia.Methodology/Principal FindingA community based cross-sectional study was conducted among 610 pre-school children in rural communities of Northern Ethiopia from June 2017 to August 2017. Stool specimens were examined for the presence of trophozoites, cysts, oocysts, and ova using direct, formal-ethyl acetate concentration, Kato–Katz, and Ziehl-Neelsen techniques. Haemoglobin was measured using a HemoCue spectrometer. Among the 610 pre-school children participated in the study, prevalence of IPIs and anaemia were 58% (95% CI: 54.1–61.9%) and 21·6% (95% CI: 18·5% to 25·1%), respectively. Single, double, and triple parasitic infections were seen in 249 (41%, 95% CI: 37% to 45%), 83 (14%, 95% CI: 11% to 17%), and 22 (3.6%, 95% CI: 2.4% to 5.4%) children, respectively. Of the seven intestinal parasitic organisms recorded from the participants,Entamoeba histolytica/disparwas the most prevalent 220 (36.1%) followed byGiardia lamblia128 (20.1%), andHymenolepis nana102 (16.7%). Mixed infections were common amongG. lamblia, E. histolytica/disparandCryptosporidiumspp. oocyst. Age 48-59 months prevalence ratio (PR = 1·078, P=0·009), child deworming (PR= 1.2; 95% CI=1.00-1.4, p= 0.045), and having two or more children aged under five (PR=0.76, 95% CI= 0.61-0.95, p=0.015) were independent predictors for IPIs. Anaemia was associated with proper disposal of solid waste (PR= 1.5, 95% CI=0.1.1-2.10, p=0.009). Eating raw meat (PR=0.49, 95% CI=0.45-0.54, p=0.000), any maternal education (PR=0.64 95% CI=0.52-0.79, p=0.000), and household water treatment (PR=0.75, 95% CI=0.56-1.0, p=0.044) were associated with lower prevalence of anaemia.ConclusionsMore than half of the children were infected with intestinal parasites and one in five were anaemic. This study has identified a number of potentially modifiable risk factors to address the significant prevalence of IPIs and anaemia in these children. Improvements in sanitation, clean water, hand hygiene, maternal education could address both short and long-term consequences of these conditions in this vulnerable population.Author SummaryIntestinal parasitic infection and anaemia are public health problems in developing counties. Children due to their immature immune systems and frequent exposure to unhygienic environments are at high risk which in turn put them at an increased risk of malnutrition and growth deficits. Similarly, childhood anaemia impairs physical growth, impairs immune function and weakens motor development. The finding of this study reveals more than half of the children were infected.Entamoeba histolytica/dispar, Giardia lambliaandHymenolepis nanawere dominant parasites. Multiple infections was common amongGiardia lamblia, Entamoeba histolytica/disparandCryptosporidiumspp. Oocyst. Children aged 48-59 months were more infected with intestinal parasites. Soli transmitted helminths in this study was low. 21.5% of the children were anaemic and was associated with disposal of solid waste and presence of domestic animals. However, Eating raw meat, maternal education and household water treatment were found preventive of anaemia in the study. It seems worth understanding the prevalence and effects of parasitic infection and anaemia in this vulnerable group to design an appropriate interventions. Finally, if parasite transmission and anaemia is to be significantly prevented control programs such as improving sanitation, clean water, maternal education may be critical in this vulnerable age groups.

Objective This study aimed to determine the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections and associated factors among school-age children in Sebeya primary school, northern Ethiopia, 2017. Results The prevalence of intestinal parasites in school-age children was (29.9%). A total of six parasites were detected in this study. E. histolytica/dispar 19.43% (82/422) and G. lamblia 8.29% (35/422) were the predominant ones. Unclean fingernail (AOR = 1.72), defecating in the open field (AOR = 2.82), and being barefooted (AOR = 1.72) were the determinant factors for intestinal parasitic infections. Frequently washing hands reduced the chance of infections by 68%. Furthermore, children in grade 1–4 and 5–6 had higher odds developing the infections than those in grade 7–8 (AOR = 8.21 and AOR = 2.50, respectively).

Introduction: Contaminated environment with canine parasitic eggs is the main source for toxocariasis and other geohelminth infections of humans. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and associated risk factors for intestinal parasitic infections in dogs and the degree of soil contamination with Toxocara eggs in Kandy and Gampaha districts in Sri Lanka. Methods: A total of 188 fecal samples from both stray and domestic owned dogs from Gampaha district and Kandy district were collected. In addition, soil samples were collected from home gardens and public places. Hypochlorite recovery technique and zinc sulfate floatation method were used to concentrate eggs in soil samples. Results: The prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections of domestic and stray dogs in Gampaha district was 38.2% and 42.9%, respectively, while in Kandy district, it was 41.1% and 50%, respectively. Hookworms were the most common parasitic infection among domestic dogs (18.5%), while Toxocara spp. were the most common among stray dogs (17.2%). Intestinal parasitic infections were significantly more prevalent among female dogs than males. Age, deworming, immunization, immunization time, and living in rural areas were not significantly associated with intestinal parasitic infections in domestic dogs. A total of 4% and 4.5% soil samples were contaminated with Toxocara spp. eggs in Gampaha and Kandy districts, respectively. Conclusions: The higher prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections in dogs could be a major public health issue. Implementations of programs to improve the awareness of parasitic infections among pet owners and control strategies need to decrease the risk of infections to both animal and human health.

Background: Intestinal Parasitic Infections (IPIs) are among the most prevalent diseases in the world, particularly in developing countries with low socio-economic and poor living conditions. From the estimated one third global population infected by intestinal parasitic infections; the majority lives in tropical and sub-tropical parts of the world. These diseases are highly prevalent in Ethiopia. However, its magnitude in the context of Wolaita Sodo University, where a large number of students reside in a campus is not studied. Therefore, the objective of this study was to assess the prevalence and factors associated with intestinal parasitic infections among food handlers in students' caterings of Wolaita Sodo University, Southern Ethiopia. Methods: Institutional based cross sectional study was conducted among food handlers working in Wolaita Sodo University students' caterings' from January 10 to February 10, 2016. The study was undertaken among 233 food handlers by using simple random sampling technique. Data were collected using structured and pretested questionnaire; observation of food handlers while working and microbiological laboratory investigations. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were used to assess the association between covariate and the outcome variables. Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) was considered to ascertain the significance of the association. Results: The mean age of the study participants was 27.2 (±6.4 SD). The overall prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections was 23.6%, with 95% CI of 18.2% to 29.1% of which 12.4% was due to amoeba cyst. Untrimmed fingernail with AOR (95% CI) 2.06 (1.06, 4.00) and regular hand washing habit without soap before food handling with AOR (95% CI) 2.68 (1.25, 5.73) were found to be significantly associated with intestinal parasitic infections. Conclusions: The prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections was high among Wolaita Sodo University food handlers. Untrimmed fingernail and hand washing habit without soap before food handling were found to increase odds of intestinal parasitic infections. The university may need to consider interventions recommended accordingly.

Objective Parasitic infections are the commonest infections affecting 3.5 billion people leading 450 million illnesses. Parasites are major public health problems in developing countries. This study was aimed to assess the prevalence and associated factors of parasitic infections among patients. A cross sectional study was conducted on 364 patients, attending Shahura Health Center, Northwest Ethiopia. Stool specimens were collected and examined using formol-ether concentration technique. Socio-demographic data collected using questionnaire. Binary and multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted to calculate the strength of association between variables. Result The overall prevalence of intestinal parasitosis was 56.9%. The most prevalent parasite was Entamoeba histolytica/dispar 32.4% followed by Hookworm species 11.8% and Giardia lamblia 7.4% singly or mixed with other parasites. Furthermore, double and triple parasitic infections were observed in 3% and 1.4% patients respectively. Being male in gender (P = 0.049), age group interval between 1 and 20 years of old (P = 0.012), having stomach pain (P = 0.032) and having diarrhea (P = 0.007) were found to be significantly associated with parasitic infection. In conclusion, prevalence of parasitic infection in the area is high. Therefore, ensuring provision of clean potable water and minimizing the contamination of vegetables are recommended. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13104-019-4377-y) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Intestinal Parasitic Infections (IPIs) are a major public health problem worldwide, especially among children with a need for periodical evaluation of prevalence and risk factors to adopt an appropriate prevention strategy. This cross-sectional prospective study was conducted to identify prevalence, risk factors, characteristics, and impact of IPIs on school children in different regions of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Children were recruited from randomly selected schools. Questionnaires were distributed to students and filled by their parents to collect relevant information about sociodemographic, environmental, and hygienic living conditions. Stool samples and anthropometric measurements as indicators of nutritional status were collected from students who agreed to participate in the study. Fecal samples were examined by direct smear and formol-ether concentration method. Out of 581 collected stool samples, only 31 (5.3%) samples were positive for IPIs especially Blastocystis hominis (10 samples) and Giardia lamblia (six samples). The only two significant risk factors associated with IPIs were drinking water from tanks [odds ratio (OR): 3.35, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.60-6.99, p = 0.001] and washing hands with only water (OR: 2.63, 95% CI: 1.17-5.93, p = 0.03). There was no significant impact of IPIs on growth parameters or level of children's academic performance.

Background Soil-transmitted helminthes (STH) infections are among the most common infections worldwide and affect the most deprived communities. Adequate water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) prevents environmental contamination, thereby preventing transmission of STH. Cognizant of this, WASH education was implemented in rural Dembiya to reduce intestinal parasitic infections. This study was, therefore, conducted to assess the impacts of the intervention on households’ WASH conditions and prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections. Method An uncontrolled before-and-after intervention study was used. Cross-sectional studies were done before and after the intervention. Two hundred twenty-five and 302 under five children were recruited randomly at the baseline and endline, respectively. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and observational checklists. Direct stool examination and Kato-Katz methods were used to identify parasites in the stool. We used percent point change and prevalence ratio (PR) to see the effects of the intervention on WASH conditions and prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections respectively. Pearson chi-squared and Fisher’s exact tests were used to test for statistically significant percentage point changes of WASH conditions. The effect of the intervention on intestinal parasitic infections was statistically tested on the basis of PR with 95% confidence interval (CI). Results The baseline prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections was 25.8%, and the endline prevalence was 23.8%. The prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections was not significantly decreased at the endline compared with the baseline [PR = 0.92, 95% CI = (0.62, 1.38)]. Ascaris Lumbricoides was the most prevalent parasitic infection both at the baseline and endline. The proportion of children who had good hygienic condition increased from 1.3% at the baseline to 34.4% at the end line (p

Background. Intestinal parasites are still a serious public health problem and important cause of morbidity and mortality all over the world, particularly in developing countries. Unfortunately, pre-school children are more susceptible to infection. However, information is scarce in the study area. Thus, this study aimed to assess the prevalence of intestinal parasitosis and associated factors among children aged 6 to 59 months in Northcentral Ethiopia. Methods. An institutional-based cross-sectional study was carried out at Mekane Eyesus primary hospital from June 10 to November 30, 2020. Stool samples were collected from 322 children and examined by using direct wet mount and formal ether concentration techniques. The data were entered and analyzed using EPI Info v7 and SPSS v23 statistical software, respectively. Both bivariable and multivariable logistic analysis was carried out and potential associated factors were identified based on adjusted odds ratio with 95% confidence interval and P-value

Background The zoonotic tapeworm Taenia saginata, although causing only minor discomfort in humans, is responsible for considerable economic losses in the livestock sector due to condemnation or downgrading of infected beef carcasses. An overview of current knowledge on the distribution and prevalence of this parasite in West and Central Africa is lacking. Methods We conducted a systematic review, collecting information on published and grey literature about T. saginata taeniosis and bovine cysticercosis from 27 countries/territories in West and Central Africa, published between January 1st, 1990 and December 31st, 2017. Results The literature search retrieved 1672 records, of which 51 and 45 were retained for a qualitative and quantitative synthesis, respectively. Non-specified human taeniosis cases were described for Nigeria, Cameroon, Senegal, Burkina Faso, Democratic Republic Congo, Guinea, and Ivory Coast (seven out of 27 countries/territories), while T. saginata taeniosis specifically was only reported for Cameroon. Most prevalence estimates for taeniosis ranged between 0–11%, while three studies from Nigeria reported prevalence estimates ranging between 23–50%. None of the studies included molecular confirmation of the causative species. The presence of bovine cysticercosis was reported for Benin, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Democratic Republic Congo, Ghana, Guinea, Ivory Coast, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, and Tristan da Cunha (14 out of 27 countries/territories). Prevalence estimates ranged between 0–29%. Conclusions Our systematic review has revealed that human taeniosis and bovine cysticercosis are seriously understudied in West and Central Africa. The high prevalence estimates of both conditions suggest an active dissemination of this parasite in the region, calling for a concerted One Health action from public health, veterinary health and food surveillance sectors. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13071-019-3584-7) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Background: Intestinal parasitic infections (IPI) lead to significant morbidity and mortality in pediatric and adult populations worldwide. Intestinal parasitism during pregnancy is of interest as it may affect the health of pregnant women and their offspring. This study determined the prevalence of IPI in pregnant women living in substandard conditions in three urban districts of Bogotá, Colombia. Associations between prevalence and sociodemographic factors, housing, and living conditions were also evaluated. Methods: In a cross-sectional and community-based study, pregnant women were recruited from three districts of Bogotá. A total of 550 participants answered a questionnaire; 331 of these also provided stool samples, with 233 providing one and 98 providing two stool samples. Questionnaire responses were associated with the presence of intestinal parasites, which was determined using a standard combined microscopy technique including direct wet mount and formol-ether concentration. Results were verified by supplementary examination of 48 stool samples by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Results: Among pregnant women who lived in selected poor residential areas in Bogotá, the overall prevalence of intestinal parasitism was 41% with 9% polyparasitism. Pathogenic parasites were present in 1.2% of the 331 participants including Giardia lamblia and Ascaris lumbricoides. Higher prevalence was found for parasites with debated pathogenicity, including Blastocystis hominis (25%), Endolimax nana (15%), Entamoeba coli (8%), and Iodamoeba butschlii (2%). Entamoeba histolytica/dispar complex was also detected (1.5%). When comparing a subset of stool samples using the combined microscopy technique and qPCR, the latter detected a higher 58.3% overall IPI prevalence. Higher prevalence of infections by any intestinal parasite was found in participants who had never been dewormed (p = 0.01). Higher but not statistically significant associations were found between any parasite and women living with a partner, and intestinal polyparasitism and being from a minority group and not having a water sink. Conclusions: This first study of the prevalence of intestinal parasitism in Bogotá focused on pregnant women living in poverty, found a high prevalence of intestinal parasites of debated pathogenicity, and confirmed a low prevalence of pathogenic intestinal parasites. These results highlight the need for educational interventions to disrupt transmission routes for prevalent parasites. © 2018 The Author(s).

Background Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) have been major public health problems in low income countries primarily affecting school children. Previous studies in Ethiopia have shown high burden of intestinal parasitic infections in most children. In order to gain a deeper insight into the magnitude of the problem more information is needed from different localities where similar studies have not been conducted. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of IPIs and associated risk factors among school children in Jawi Primary School, Jawi town, north -west Ethiopia. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted from April to June 2017 to assess the prevalence of IPIs and associated risk factors among Jawi Primary School children, Ethiopia. A total of 422 children were selected using age-stratified systematic random sampling technique. Stool samples were examined microscopically using direct wet-mount and formal-ether concentration techniques. A structured questionnaire was used to obtain information regarding the associated risk factors. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20 and p value

ObjectiveTo provide baseline information of parasitic infections in 3 suburban government schools, Lakhok subdistrict of Muang Pathum Thani, Thailand.MethodsThis study was conducted between May-June 2010 using simple direct smear and modified formalin ether and from a population of 1 253 in 3 suburban government schools.ResultsTotal samples of 202 registered and participated. The average of prevalence of infection from 3 schools was 13.9%, there were 13.7%, 14.3% and 13.9% in N, S and R school, respectively with no significant difference between schools (P>0.05). The infection rates did not show significant difference between genders (P>0.05). The highest rate of infection was 20.4% in Pathom 2 (8 years) students and the lowest was 4% in Pathom 1 (7 years) with statistically difference between age groups (P

Background Multiple factors determine children’s nutritional status, including energy and nutrient intake, recurrent infectious diseases, access (or lack thereof) to clean water and improved sanitation, and hygiene practices, among others. The “Vegetables go to School: improving nutrition through agricultural diversification” (VgtS) project implements an integrated school garden programme in five countries, including Burkina Faso. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of undernutrition and its risk factors among schoolchildren in Burkina Faso before the start of the project. Methods In February 2015, a cross-sectional survey was carried out among 455 randomly selected children, aged 8–14 years, in eight schools in the Plateau Central and Centre-Ouest regions of Burkina Faso. Nutritional status was determined by anthropometric assessment. Helminth and intestinal protozoa infections were assessed using the Kato-Katz and a formalin-ether concentration method. A urine filtration technique was used to identify Schistosoma haematobium eggs. Prevalence of anaemia was determined by measuring haemoglobin levels in finger-prick blood samples. Questionnaires were administered to children to determine their knowledge of nutrition and health and their related attitudes and practices (KAP). Questionnaires were also administered to the children’s caregivers to identify basic household socio-demographic and economic characteristics, and water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) conditions. To determine the factors associated with schoolchildren’s nutritional status, mixed logistic regression models were used. Differences and associations were considered statistically significant if P-values were below 0.05. Results Complete datasets were available for 385 children. The prevalence of undernutrition, stunting and thinness were 35.1%, 29.4% and 11.2%, respectively. The multivariable analysis revealed that undernutrition was associated with older age (i.e. 12–14 years compared to

Introduction: Owing to the poor socioeconomic conditions and lack of sanitary hygiene, a large number of population in developing countries remain under constant threat of different parasitic infections causing severe morbidity and mortality. Enough measures to prevent and reduce the disease burden are still to be undertaken. Aim: Aim of the study was to determine the spectrum of parasitic infections in patients with complaints of diarrhoea and other gastrointestinal symptoms attending a tertiary care hospital in Western Rajasthan, India. Materials and Methods: It is a retrospective study conducted in the Department of Microbiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jodhpur, India, between the period of September 2014 and April 2016. The records of routine stool examination carried out during the study period, were analyzed. A total of 968 stool samples from the same number of patients complaining of diarrhoea and other gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, flatulence, and pain abdomen were received from different outdoor and indoor wards of the hospital. Microscopic examination was performed after the concentration of stool samples by formol-ether concentration technique and their wet mount preparations. Modified Ziehl-Neelsen (ZN) staining was performed on 17 samples for the detection of coccidian parasites. Results: Out of 968 cases, 158 (16.3%) were found to be infected with either a parasite or a commensal or both. A maximum number of isolates (21.1%) were from the age group of 31-40 years. Overall, protozoans (95.38%) were detected in excess of helminths (4.62%). The most common protozoa isolated was Entamoeba histolytica (37.57%) followed by Giardia lamblia (23.12%), and the most common helminth isolated was Hymenolepis nana (2.9%) followed by Ascaris lumbricoides (1.15%). Out of 17 stool samples, where modified ZN staining was performed, Cryptosporidium spp., Isospora belli, and Cyclospora spp. were detected in one sample each. Conclusion: Intestinal protozoal infections are more prevalent as compared to helminthic infections in this study group.

Objective: To investigate the prevalence of different intestinal parasitic infection among male primary schoolchildren in Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia, and to explore the possible relative socioeconomic, environmental and behavioural sanitary correlates. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was performed. A total of 1289 male students aged from 7 to 12 years were selected randomly from 20 urban and 12 rural primary schools by multistage sampling method. Data collection was carried out by self administered questionnaire form to the parents/guardians of students and included inquires about socio-demographics, environmental conditions, and behavioural sanitary habits. Stool analysis was carried out to examine the presence of intestinal parasitic infections. Results: Overall prevalence of parasitic infections was 27.2%, more among rural students. Frequently encountered infections included Entamoeba histolytica/dispar (8.2%), Giardia lamblia (6.5%), Entamoeba coli (4.0%) and Enterobius vermicularis (1.6%). Logistic regression revealed that lower maternal educational level and occupational status, low family income, big family size, poor personal hygienic practices and positive history of previous intestinal infections among family members increased the likelihood of infections. Conclusions: Although of low magnitude, intestinal parasitic infections still represent a public health concern among male schoolchildren in Al-Ahsa region. Socio-demographic and poor personal hygienic habits are the main predictors for these infections.

Introduction: \ud In recent years, an unprecedented emphasis has been given to the control of neglected tropical diseases, including soil-transmitted helminths (STHs). The mainstay of STH control is school-based deworming (SBD), but mathematical modelling has shown that in all but very low transmission settings, SBD is unlikely to interrupt transmission, and that new treatment strategies are required. This study seeks to answer the question: is it possible to interrupt the transmission of STH, and, if so, what is the most costeffective treatment strategy and delivery system to achieve this goal?\ud \ud Methods and analysis: \ud Two cluster randomised trials are being implemented in contrasting settings in Kenya. The interventions are annual mass anthelmintic treatment delivered to preschool- and school-aged children, as part of a national SBD programme, or to entire communities, delivered by community health workers. Allocation to study group is by cluster, using predefined units used in public health provision—termed community units (CUs). CUs are randomised to one of three groups: receiving either (1) annual SBD; (2) annual community-based deworming (CBD); or (3) biannual CBD. The primary outcome measure is the prevalence of hookworm infection, assessed by four cross-sectional surveys. Secondary outcomes are prevalence of Ascaris lumbricoides and Trichuris trichiura, intensity of species infections and treatment coverage. Costs and cost-effectiveness will be evaluated. Among a random subsample of participants, worm burden and proportion of unfertilised eggs will be assessed longitudinally. A nested process evaluation, using semistructured interviews, focus group discussions and a stakeholder analysis, will investigate the community acceptability, feasibility and scale-up of each delivery system.\ud \ud Ethics and dissemination: \ud Study protocols have been reviewed and approved by the ethics committees of the Kenya Medical Research Institute and National Ethics Review Committee, and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. The study has a dedicated web site.\ud \ud Trial registration number: NCT02397772

Objective: Intestinal parasitic infections are among the main health problems worldwide. The signs and symptoms depending on the type of parasite and conditions of host can be mild, moderate, or severe. In the present study, we attempted to determine the prevalence and risk factors for intestinal parasitic infections in individuals referred to medical laboratories in Sanandaj city, in the center of Kurdistan province, northwest Iran. Methods: This cross-sectional study was done from 1 June 2015 to 31 August 2016, during which 1383 fecal samples were collected randomly from individuals who were referred to medical laboratories. All the samples were examined using direct slide smear, formalin-ether concentration, and staining methods. Results: Out of the 1383 stool specimens examined, 297 (21.5%) were infected with single or multiple intestinal parasites. Protozoan parasites were detected the most from the samples and helminths were very much less prevalent. Finally, the analyzed data showed a significant difference between intestinal parasitic infections and reasons for referral (p = 0.002), age groups (p ≤ 0.01), education (p ≤ 0.01), and seasonal variation (p ≤ 0.01). Conclusions: Intestinal parasitic infections especially protozoan parasites are still prevalent in the center of Kurdistan province. Therefore, health providers are recommended to consider this health problem by establishing accurate diagnosis and designing interventional program to decrease the rate of such infections in this district.

Made available in DSpace on 2019-09-12T16:53:24Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2004 Atualmente, as infecções parasitárias intestinais são motivo de preocupação para as agências de saúde pública nos países em desenvolvimento e desenvolvidos. Como três exames de fezes de óvulos e parasitas demonstraram fornecer resultados sensíveis, projetamos um kit prático e econômico (TF-Test) que agora está disponível comercialmente (Immunoassay Com. Ind. Ltda., São Paulo, Brasil). Este kit permite a coleta separada de três amostras fecais em uma solução conservante. As amostras são então reunidas, filtradas duas vezes e concentradas por um único processo de centrifugação rápida. O teste TF foi avaliado em quatro laboratórios diferentes em um estudo com 1.102 pacientes ambulatoriais e indivíduos vivendo em uma área endêmica de enteroparasitose. A sensibilidade geral encontrada pelo teste TF (86,2-97,8%) foi significativamente maior ( P 0,01) à do teste TF. Os valores do índice kappa de concordância para o teste TF foram consistentes ( P 0.01) to that of the TF-Test. The kappa index values of agreement for the TF-Test were consistent (P < 0.01), being higher and ranking in a better position than conventional techniques. The high sensitivity, cost/benefit ratio, and practical aspects demonstrate that the TF-Test is suitable for individual diagnosis, epidemiological inquiries, or evaluation of chemotherapy in treated communities. (C) 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc. Univ Sao Paulo, Fac Pharmaceut Sci, Dept Clin & Toxicol Anal, BR-05508900 Sao Paulo, Brazil; Paulista State Univ, Clin Hosp, Lab Clin Anal, Sao Paulo, Brazil; Univ Sao Paulo, Clin Hosp, Parasitol Lab, Sao Paulo, Brazil; Universidade de Taubaté (Unitau), Dept Parasitol, Sao Paulo, Brazil; Orion Res Ctr Biotechnol, Sao Paulo, Brazil; State Univ Campinas, Dept Clin Parasitol, Sao Paulo, Brazil

About 400 million school-age children are infected with roundworm, whipworm and hookworm worldwide. This study aims to assess prevalence of parasitic infections among rural primary school pupils at Minia Governorate, Egypt, and to identify relevant predisposing factors of the school and pupils to intestinal parasitic infections. A total of 264 pupils out of 1,053, aged 6–12 years, were randomly selected for parasitological investigation and the school was inspected on site for sanitary facilities and conditions of hygiene, as well as the conditions of hygiene of the pupils. The pupils were examined for ova, cysts and/or larvae of intestinal parasites using direct wet mount and formal-ether concentration techniques. Inspection of sanitary facilities and the conditions of hygiene of the school, as well pupil's conditions of hygiene, were carried out through observation checklists. Findings revealed the following intestinal parasites: Entamoeba coli (in 19.3% of pupils), Ascaris lumbricoides (3.8%), Hymenolepiasis nana (12.5%), Enterobious vermicularis (5.7%) and Giardia lamblia (12.5%), with varying percentages between male and female pupils, and a highly statistical association between pupil sex and type of parasites (P

Endoscopy of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum and stool examinations for ova and parasites were performed in 63 adult Peruvian patients with “hunger pain” (HP) and other dyspeptic symptoms. No lesion capable of provoking HP was found at endoscopy in 50 (78%) of the 63 patients. Only 7 (12%) of the patients had evidence of active or healed peptic ulcers. Another 6 patients (10%) had either gastric erosions or duodenitis. One (2%) of the patients was infected with hookworm, a parasite that produces epigastric pain mimicking HP. The 12% rate of peptic ulcer in Peruvian patients with HP contrasts strongly with accumulated experience in most developed countries, whose rates of peptic ulcer associated with HP range from 60 to 75%. As the frequency of peptic ulcer is so variable in patients with HP, we suggest that the simple term “hunger pain” be used instead of “peptic ulcer pain” or “ulcer dyspepsia” to refer to the complaint of such patients.

Background The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of coinfection with malaria and intestinal parasites, as well as to determine its association with anaemia in children aged 10 years and below in Muyuka, Cameroon. Materials and methods This was a cross-sectional study. Participants were febrile children who were admitted to the Muyuka district hospital between April and October 2012. Blood and stool samples were collected from those participants who gave consent to take part in the study. Haemoglobin concentration (Hb) and complete blood count (CBC) were performed using an automated haematology analyser (Mindray®, BC-2800). Giemsa-stained blood film was examined to detect malaria parasites, while the formol-ether concentration technique was used to detect intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs). The Pearson’s chi-square, Student’s T-test and correlation analysis were all performed as part of the statistical analyses. Results Four hundred and eleven (411) children successfully took part in this study. The prevalence of malaria, IPIs, malaria and IPI coinfection, and anaemia observed were 98.5 %, 11.9 %, 11.9 % and 44.8 %, respectively. Anaemia and IPIs were significantly associated with age; anaemia was more prevalent in children under five years of age (p = 0.000), whereas IPIs were more prevalent in children aged between five and 10 years (p = 0.006). The parasite species isolated included Ascaris lumbricoides (36 [73.5 %]), Entamoeba histolytica/dispar (9 [18.4 %]) and hookworm (4 [8.2 %]). The mean Hb observed was 10.64 g/dl (±1.82). A significant negative correlation was observed between malaria parasite density and Hb. There was no significant difference in the prevalence of anaemia among children infected with malaria, IPIs, or malaria and IPI coinfection, or among non-infected children. Similarly, the mean Hb did not differ among infected and non-infected children. Conclusion This study showed that malaria and IPIs still constitute a major public health problem in the study area despite a lack of any significant association between these infections and anaemia. The findings suggest that there is a need for the implementation of control measures to curb the rate of malaria and IPIs in the study area.

Background Parasitic infection is the most prevalent among rural communities in warm and humid regions and where water, hygiene and sanitation facilities are inadequate. Such infection occurs in rural areas where water supplies are not enough to drink and use, and in the absence of environmental sanitation, when the rubbish and other wastes increased, and sewage and waste water are not properly treated. Hence the aim of the study was to assess the prevalence of intestinal parasitosis and associated risk factors. Methods This cross sectional study was conducted on children of the selected primary schools in Chencha town from March to May, 2012. Children were selected within age group 5–15 years. The socio-demographic, environmental and behavioral variables data were collected using structured questionnaire from the guardians of children and school teachers to assess the risk factors. Prevalence of intestinal parasitosis was determined using direct method and formol-ether concentration method. Participants’ data were analyzed using SPSS version 16.0. Results Of 422 selected school children, 400 participated in the study with full information for analysis. The overall prevalence of intestinal parasitosis was high (81.0%). Soil-transmitted helminths (STHs) infections (63.0%) were more prevalent than protozoa infections (23.5%). The predominant parasites were A.lumbricoides (60.5%), E.histolytica/dispar (16.25%), Giardia lamblia (11.7%) and T.trichuria (9.7%). The presence of Intestinal Parasitic Infections (IPIs) have statistically significant association with the educational status of the household heads, absence of washing facility, home cleanness condition and type of latrine used with (p