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Parasitiosis in handicapped children in an Egyptian blind asylum

Gehad T El-Sherbini1, Mohamad F Aboul Noor, Mamdouh M Hegazi

  • 1Cairo Curative Organization, Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Mansoura University, Cairo, Egypt.

Journal of the Egyptian Society of Parasitology
|January 16, 2009
PubMed

Insights

This study found common intestinal parasites like Enterobius vermicularis and Giardia lamblia in visually handicapped children and staff. No blood parasites or waterborne protozoa were detected.

Area of Science:

  • Parasitology
  • Public Health
  • Pediatrics

Background:

  • Visually handicapped children may be at increased risk for certain infections due to various factors.
  • Understanding the prevalence of parasitic infections in this population is crucial for targeted interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the prevalence of intestinal parasites and other infections among visually handicapped children and their caregivers.
  • To identify specific parasitic agents affecting this vulnerable group.

Main Methods:

  • Parasitological examination of stool samples from visually handicapped children and their serving staff.
  • Microscopic identification of helminths and protozoa.
  • Assessment for head lice infestation.

Main Results:

  • Enterobius vermicularis was the most prevalent parasite, followed by Giardia lamblia and Entamoeba histolytica.
  • Other detected parasites included Hymenolepis nana, Ascaris lumbricoides, Cryptosporidium parvum, Trichuris trichiura, and Strongyloides stercoralis.
  • Head lice were also observed, but no blood parasites or waterborne protozoa were found.

Conclusions:

  • Intestinal parasitic infections are common in visually handicapped children and their staff.
  • Public health strategies should consider the specific needs of this population for parasite control.
  • Further research on transmission routes and prevention is warranted.

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