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Survey of intestinal pathogens from immigrant children
British Medical Journal
|March 4, 1972
Summary
Intestinal helminth infections were common in immigrant schoolchildren, particularly those from the West Indies. Screening identified various worm species and some bacterial pathogens like Salmonella and Shigella.
Area of Science:
- Medical Parasitology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Immigrant populations often experience unique health challenges.
- Intestinal helminth infections are a significant global health concern, especially in children.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of intestinal helminths and enteric bacterial pathogens among immigrant schoolchildren.
- To identify specific helminth species and their distribution across different immigrant groups.
Main Methods:
- Screening of 1,468 immigrant schoolchildren using a concentration method on a single fecal specimen.
- Identification of helminth species and bacterial pathogens, including Salmonella and Shigella.
Main Results:
- Overall helminth prevalence was 37% (1,468/4,000), highest in children from the West Indies (51%).
- Trichuris and Ascaris were predominant in West Indian children; co-infections were common.
- Lower carriage rates were observed in children from Kenya (16%) and Uganda (7%).
- Children from South-east Asia (India, Pakistan) showed 30-40% carriage rates, with sex-specific differences in hookworm, Hymenolepis, and Ascaris.
- Five Salmonella isolates (including Salmonella typhi) and five Shigella sonnei were identified. Vibrio cholerae was not detected.
Conclusions:
- Immigrant schoolchildren represent a vulnerable group for intestinal helminth infections.
- Geographic origin significantly influences the type and prevalence of helminth infections.
- The study highlights the need for targeted screening and public health interventions for this population.