Geohelminths eggs contamination of sandpits in Vladivostok, Russia

Objective To detect nematode eggs in sandpits in urban area in Vladivostok. Methods Totally 60 samples were collected from five districts. Sand samples were analysed using combined flotation-sedimentation method. In result, 18 sand samples were positive for at one or two parasites species. Results Overall, only 3 genera of helminths were recovered. Most samples were positive for Toxocara spp. eggs. Toxocara spp. eggs were found in each district. More samples with Toxocara spp. eggs were found in Pervomaiskii district. Ascaris spp. eggs were also appeared in each district, however Ascaris eggs rate of contamination was less than rate of Toxocara spp. contamination. Toxascaris leonina eggs were the less frequent species in sandpits, it was found only in Sovetskii and Pervomaiskii districts. Ascaris eggs rate of contamination was less than rate of Toxocara spp. contamination. Toxascaris leonina eggs were the less frequent species in sandpits, it was found only in two districts. No correlation between districts and helmiths eggs present in soil samples was found ( P > 0.05). Conclusions Considering the high sand contamination with parasite infective elements of both human and animal origin, measures to improve environmental and sanitary conditions are indicated, as well as promoting the concept of responsible pet ownership.