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Updated: May 19, 2026
10:57
Determining Soil-transmitted Helminth Infection Status and Physical Fitness of School-aged Children
Published on: August 22, 2012
Helminth transmission in simple pit latrines.
Sarah M Baker1, Jeroen H J Ensink
1Environmental Health Group, Disease Control Department, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London WC1E 7HT, UK.
Transactions of the Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene
|September 4, 2012
Summary
Simple pit latrines, a low-cost sanitation solution, frequently contain helminth eggs. Their classification as unimproved sanitation is supported by findings, with roof absence linked to fewer eggs.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Public Health
- Sanitation Engineering
Background:
- Simple pit latrines are the most affordable sanitation option for impoverished communities.
- These latrines are considered unimproved due to the lack of a concrete slab.
- Understanding pathogen presence in unimproved sanitation is crucial for public health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of helminth eggs in soil samples from simple pit latrines.
- To identify factors influencing helminth egg concentrations in these sanitation facilities.
Main Methods:
- Soil samples were collected from various simple pit latrine sites.
- Samples were analyzed for the presence and concentration of helminth eggs.
Main Results:
- Helminth eggs were detected in 71% of all collected soil samples.
- A significant association was found between the absence of a latrine roof and lower helminth egg concentrations.
Conclusions:
- The high prevalence of helminth eggs confirms simple pit latrines as an unimproved sanitation method.
- Latrine design features, such as roofing, may influence pathogen containment.
- Findings underscore the need for improved sanitation infrastructure in vulnerable communities.
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