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Intestinal parasitic infection among school children

B Shakya1, S Shrestha, N L Madhikarmi

  • 1Department of Microbiology, National Medical College and Teaching Hospital, Birgunj, Nepal. bikashshaky@gmail.com

Journal of Nepal Health Research Council
|August 30, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Intestinal parasitic infections affect 13.9% of school children in Nepal, with higher rates in girls and younger children. Improving hygiene and socioeconomic conditions can reduce this public health issue.

Area of Science:

  • Public Health
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Parasitology

Background:

  • Intestinal parasitosis is a significant public health concern in developing nations, disproportionately affecting children.
  • School-aged children in hilly regions of Nepal exhibit higher prevalence rates of intestinal parasitic infections.
  • This study investigates the prevalence and associated factors of intestinal parasitosis in a Nepalese school population.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections among school children in a border town of Nepal.
  • To identify factors associated with intestinal parasitic infections in this population.

Main Methods:

  • Fecal samples were analyzed using the direct smear technique.
  • Data on socioeconomic status and hygienic practices were collected and correlated with infection rates.
  • The chi-square test was employed for statistical analysis.

Main Results:

  • A prevalence rate of 13.9% was observed, with girls (19.1%) more affected than boys (10.3%).
  • Entamoeba histolytica (36.0%) and Ascaris lumbricoides (28.0%) were the most common parasites.
  • Infection rates were highest in children aged 5 years and under (29.2%) and among children of illiterate parents (16.7%) and farmers (17.1%).
  • Drinking untreated water was associated with higher infection rates (15.0%) compared to treated water (5.5%).

Conclusions:

  • Intestinal parasitic infections were present in 17% of the studied school children.
  • Interventions focusing on disease awareness, hygiene improvement, and socioeconomic support for parents are recommended to mitigate infection burden.
Abstract

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