Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 30, 2026
Determining Soil-transmitted Helminth Infection Status and Physical Fitness of School-aged Children
Published on: August 22, 2012
[Investigation of intestinal parasites among elementary school students in the Mugla province]
Bora Ekinci1, Elnur Karacaoğlan, Ebru Bulucu
1Muğla Üniversitesi, Muğla Sağlık Yükseokulu, Muğla, Türkiye, Turkey. immunbora@yahoo.com
Objective:
In this study prevalence of intestinal parasite agents was investigated among elementary school students in the Mugla city centre.
Methods:
Only 663 relatives among 3560 students allowed us to investigate and obtain fecal specimens of the students. Specimens were examined by native and lugol staining. Repeated samples were requested from suspected cases and evaluated.
Results:
Intestinal parasites were found in 73 stool specimens (11.01%) taken from students. The frequently observed parasite was Ascaris lumbricoides at ratio of 52% (39 students).
Conclusion:
It was estimated that, because of the lack of a sewage system in the Mugla province, health education and periodically parasite examinations should be administered to elementary school students and their families in order to raise awareness and prevent parasitic infections.
Insights
A study found that 11.01% of elementary school students in Mugla city centre had intestinal parasites, with Ascaris lumbricoides being the most common. Health education and regular parasite screenings are recommended for prevention.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Infectious Diseases
- Pediatrics
Context:
- Intestinal parasite infections are a significant health concern in school-aged children.
- Mugla city centre, Turkey, faces potential challenges due to inadequate sewage systems impacting public health.
- Elementary school students represent a vulnerable population for parasitic infections.
Purpose:
- To determine the prevalence of intestinal parasite agents among elementary school students in Mugla city centre.
- To identify the most common intestinal parasites affecting this demographic.
Summary:
- A cross-sectional study examined fecal specimens from 663 elementary school students in Mugla city centre.
- Native and Lugol staining methods were used for parasite detection.
- Intestinal parasites were detected in 11.01% of students, with Ascaris lumbricoides being the most prevalent (52% of positive cases).
Impact:
- Findings highlight the need for targeted public health interventions in Mugla.
- Recommendations include implementing health education programs and periodic parasite screenings for students and families.
- Addressing environmental factors like sewage systems is crucial for long-term prevention of parasitic infections.
