Intestinal parasitic infection among school age children

N Bhandari1, V Kausaph, G P Neupane

  • 1Kathmandu University School of Medical Sciences, Nepal. neemakusms@yahoo.com

Insights

Intestinal parasite infections are common in school children, affecting 40% in this study. Unhygienic conditions and drinking tap water are linked to high infection rates, necessitating health education and improved sanitation.

Area of Science:

  • Public Health
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Pediatrics

Background:

  • An estimated 25% of the global population is infected with intestinal parasites.
  • Intestinal parasites cause significant health issues in school-aged children, including malnutrition and developmental delays.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections among school-aged children.
  • To identify risk factors associated with these infections in the study area.

Main Methods:

  • Stool samples were collected from 360 school children.
  • Parasitic examination included normal saline wet mount and formalin ether sedimentation techniques.

Main Results:

  • A 40% prevalence of intestinal parasites was found, with 60% of infections in females.
  • Parasitic infection rates varied among ethnic groups (Newar, Chettri, Brahmin).
  • A significant association was observed between parasitic infection and drinking tap water.

Conclusions:

  • Intestinal parasitic infections are highly prevalent in the study region.
  • Poor living conditions, particularly unhygienic environments and unsafe drinking water, contribute to high infection rates.
  • Interventions including health education, provision of safe water, and improved sanitation are crucial.
Abstract

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