Detection of Enterobius vermicularis in greater Berlin, 2007-2017: seasonality and increased frequency of detection

Area of Science:

• Medical Parasitology
• Infectious Diseases Epidemiology
• Public Health

Background:

• Pinworm (Enterobius vermicularis) infections cause anal pruritus, primarily in children, leading to stigmatization and sleep disturbances.
• Epidemiological data for Enterobius vermicularis infections in Germany were previously lacking.
• Understanding the prevalence and patterns of pinworm infections is crucial for public health interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the epidemiological characteristics of Enterobius vermicularis infections in Germany.
• To investigate the prevalence, demographic distribution, and seasonality of pinworm infections.
• To identify potential risk factors and trends in E. vermicularis detection.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of laboratory data for Enterobius vermicularis detection using the cellulose tape test.
• Inclusion of samples collected between 2007 and November 2017 from 3991 patients.
• Statistical analysis of detection rates, demographic factors, and seasonality.

Main Results:

• Enterobius vermicularis was detected in 17.4% of 5578 samples.
• Detection rates increased significantly over the study period and were higher in males (20.0%) than females (15.4%).
• Children aged 4-10 years and their relatives were most frequently affected; a seasonal peak was observed between October and December in older patients.

Conclusions:

• Pinworm infections in the investigated area are more frequent in males and exhibit a previously undescribed seasonality.
• The findings highlight the need for further investigation into the causes of increased detection frequency and seasonal patterns.
• Public health strategies may need to consider demographic and seasonal variations in pinworm prevalence.