Parasitic infections of refugees

The Victorian refugee screening programme, in contrast to similar programmes elsewhere in Australia, includes an examination for faecal parasites. The results of such screening at Fairfield Infectious Diseases Hospital for the 16-month period December 1, 1984-March 31, 1986 are presented. For most of the population groups that were studied, there was a high prevalence of intestinal parasites, which often warranted treatment. Additionally, marked differences were noted among the nationalities in the range of parasites that was detected. This information is of particular importance for those who are delivering health services to members of these different ethnic communities, especially in other states where screening is less comprehensive.