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Pattern of intestinal parasitic infections in children with malnutrition in Somalia

Marian Muse Osman1, Saadaq Adan Hussein2, Mohamed Abdinor Omar3

  • 1Research Department at National Institute of Health, Mogadishu, Somalia.

IJID Regions
|October 11, 2024
PubMed

Insights

Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) are highly prevalent in acutely malnourished children in Somalia, affecting over 80%. Prompt deworming and improved sanitation are crucial for this vulnerable population.

Area of Science:

  • Global Health
  • Pediatric Infectious Diseases
  • Nutritional Epidemiology

Background:

  • Children in conflict zones with adverse climates face high risks of acute malnutrition.
  • Coinfection with intestinal parasites (IPIs) can exacerbate malnutrition outcomes.
  • Understanding IPI patterns in malnourished children is critical for effective intervention.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence and patterns of intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs).
  • To investigate IPIs in children suffering from acute malnutrition.
  • To analyze IPIs in the Bay and Banadir regions of Somalia.

Main Methods:

  • A hospital-based cross-sectional study involved 222 children aged 6-59 months with acute malnutrition.
  • Data collected via structured questionnaires and stool examinations.
  • Multiple logistic regression analyzed the relationship between IPIs and demographic factors.

Main Results:

  • A high prevalence of IPIs was found in 82.9% of acutely malnourished children.
  • Common parasites included *Ascaris lumbricoides* (46.6%), *Giardia lamblia* (22.1%), and *Entamoeba histolytica* (17.6%).
  • Children aged 13-36 months and those eating once daily showed higher infection rates.

Conclusions:

  • Intestinal parasitic infection is highly prevalent among malnourished children in the studied regions.
  • Expanded deworming programs for malnourished children are recommended.
  • Community-level improvements in food, sanitation, and water are essential.
Abstract

Keywords:
Acute malnutritionDewormingIntestinal parasitic infectionsSomalia

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