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Intestinal Parasitic Infections among Prison Inmates in Kathmandu Nepal
Prasha Shrestha1, Dhiraj Shrestha1, Dhiraj Thapa Magar1
1Department of Microbiology, Shi-Gan International College of Science and Technology (SICOST), Kathmandu, Nepal.
Background:
Prison inmates are at high risk of intestinal parasitic infections. Thus, we studied intestinal parasitic infections among inmates of the Central Jail, Kathmandu, Nepal.
Methods:
Morning stool samples from 400 inmates (M=282 and F=118), were collected in a clean, dry and wide-mouthed plastic container. The samples were transported to the research laboratory of Shi-Gan International College of Science and Technology, and were fixed using 10% formal saline. Then, samples were processed by formal ether sedimentation concentration technique and were observed microscopically by direct-smear technique.
Results:
Six percent (24/400) samples were positive for intestinal parasites, with a gender ratio (M:F) 1.7:1. But, co-parasitism was not observed. Intestinal parasitic infections were higher among 21-40 years age-group, 3.5% (14/262). Similarly, intestinal parasitic infections were higher among 'Dalits' ethnic group, 21.1% (4/19). As compared to helminths, more protozoans, 62.5% (15/24), were observed. Giardia lamblia, 41.67% (10/24), was the most common protozoans while Trichuris trichiura, 25.0% (6/24), was the most common helminths.
Conclusions:
Intestinal parasitic infections were lower among the inmates of Central jail, but such conditions cannot be presumed in other peripheral settings. Pure and safe drinking water supply and the effective deworming campaign can further reduce this figure at this setting and peripheral jails across the country.
Insights
Intestinal parasitic infections were found in 6% of inmates at Kathmandu Central Jail. Giardia lamblia and Trichuris trichiura were the most common parasites, highlighting the need for improved sanitation and deworming programs.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Infectious Diseases
- Parasitology
Background:
- Prison inmates face a high risk of intestinal parasitic infections.
- This study investigated the prevalence of intestinal parasites in inmates at Kathmandu Central Jail, Nepal.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence and types of intestinal parasitic infections among inmates.
- To identify risk factors associated with these infections within the prison population.
Main Methods:
- Collected morning stool samples from 400 inmates (282 males, 118 females).
- Samples were fixed with 10% formal saline and processed using the formal ether sedimentation concentration technique.
- Microscopic examination included direct-smear observation.
Main Results:
- Overall prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections was 6% (24/400).
- Protozoan infections (62.5%) were more common than helminth infections.
- Giardia lamblia (41.67%) and Trichuris trichiura (25.0%) were the most prevalent species.
Conclusions:
- Intestinal parasitic infections were relatively low in this specific jail but may be higher in other settings.
- Recommendations include ensuring access to pure drinking water and implementing effective deworming campaigns.
