Prevalence of gastrointestinal helminthic infections and associated risk factors among schoolchildren in Tilili town, northwest Ethiopia

Bacilli load in PTB- intestinal helminths co-infected and PTB non -infected patients at selected public health facilities in Jimma zone, Oromia, Ethiopia: comparative cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Tuberculosis (TB) and intestinal helminths are diseases that pose a dual burden on public health in low-income countries. Previous studies have shown that helminths can affect the shedding of bacteria or the bacterial load in the sputum of active TB patients. However, there is limited information on bacterial load in TB patients with helminth infections.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to compare bacterial load in helminths-infected and non-infected pulmonary tuberculosis patients at selected public health facilities in Jimma zone, Oromia, Ethiopia.

METHODS

The study was conducted in Jimma Zone, Oromia, Ethiopia. A facility-based comparative cross-sectional study was employed from August 01, 2020, to January 2021. A total of 124 (55 intestinal helminths-infected and 69 non-infected) newly diagnosed smear-positive pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) patients were included in the study. A convenience sampling technique was employed to recruit study participants, and a semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect data regarding socio-demographic characteristics and possible risk factors for intestinal helminths co-infection. Stool examination was performed using both wet mount and Kato Katz technique. Additionally, weight and height measurements, sputum, and blood samples were taken to determine body mass index, bacilli load, and diabetic mellitus, respectively. Data were entered into Epi-Data software version 3.1 and analyzed using Statistical Packages for Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 25. A statistically significant difference was defined as a P-value of less than 0.05.

RESULTS

Intestinal helminths reduced bacilli load 3 times more than intestinal helminths non-infected PTB (AOR = 3.44; 95% CI; 1.52, 7.79; P = 0.003) However, diabetes mellitus, HIV, drinking alcohol and cigarette smoking were not associated with bacilli load. The rate of co-infection TB with intestinal helminths was 44%. The three most prevalent parasites detected were Trichuris trichiura 29 (66%), hookworm 19 (43%), and Ascaris lumbricoides 11(25%)). Among co-infected patients about 36 (81.8%) had a single parasite infection, and 19 (43.2%) had multiple infections. A body mass index < 18.5 (AOR = 3.26; 95% CI; 1.25, 8.56;P = 0.016) and untrimmed fingernail status (AOR = 3.63; 95%CI;1.32,9.93;P = 0.012) were significantly associated with PTB- intestinal helminth -co-infection.

CONCLUSION

Helminth infection was associated with a lower bacilli load compared to helmenths non-infected PTB. The rate of co-infection TB with intestinal helminths was 44%. Trichuris trichiura was the most prevalent helminth. Untrimmed fingernail and a body mass index were associated with PTB-intestinal helminth co-infection.

Prevalence and associated risk factors of intestinal parasitic infections among children in pastoralist and agro-pastoralist communities in the Adadle woreda of the Somali Regional State of Ethiopia

BACKGROUND

Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) can cause illness, morbidity, and occasional mortality in children. Agro-pastoralist and pastoralist children in the Somali Regional State of Ethiopia (ESRS) are especially at risk for IPIs, as access to safe water, sanitation, and health services is lacking. Minimal data on the prevalence of IPIs and associated risk factors exists in this region.

METHODOLOGY

We assessed the prevalence of IPIs and associated risk factors during the wet season from May-June 2021 in 366 children aged 2 to 5 years in four agro-pastoralist and four pastoralist kebeles (wards) in Adadle woreda (district) of the Shebelle zone, ESRS. Household information, anthropometric measurements, and stool samples were obtained from included children. Parasites were identified microscopically using Kato-Katz and direct smear methods. Risk factors were assessed using general estimating equation models accounting for clustering.

PRINCIPAL FINDINGS

Overall prevalence of IPIs was 35%: 30.6% for single infections and 4.4% for poly-parasitic infections. Intestinal protozoan prevalence was 24.9%: 21.9% Giardia intestinalis, and 3.0% Entamoeba spp.. Intestinal helminth prevalence was 14.5%: 12.8% Ascaris lumbricoides, 1.4% hookworm (Ancylostoma duodenale /Necator americanus.), and 0.3% Hymenolepis nana. G. intestinalis infection was associated with drinking water sourced from the river (aOR 15.6, 95%CI 6.84, 35.4) and from collected rainwater (aOR 9.48, 95%CI 3.39, 26.5), with toilet sharing (aOR 2.93, 95%CI 1.36, 6.31) and with household ownership of cattle (1-5 cattle: aOR 1.65, 95%CI 1.13, 2.41; 6+ cattle: aOR 2.07, 95%CI 1.33, 3.21) and chickens (aOR 3.80, 95%CI 1.77, 8.17). A. lumbricoides infection was associated with children 36 to 47 months old (aOR 1.92, 95%CI 1.03, 3.58).

CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE

Improving access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene services in Adadle and employing a One Health approach would likely improve the health of children living in (agro-) pastoralist communities in Adadle and the ESRS; however, further studies are required.

Using Routinely Collected Health Records to Identify the Fine-Resolution Spatial Patterns of Soil-Transmitted Helminth Infections in Rwanda

Background. Soil-transmitted helminths (STH) are parasitic diseases with significant public health impact. Analysis is generally based on cross-sectional prevalence surveys; outcomes are mostly aggregated to larger spatial units. However, recent research demonstrates that infection levels and spatial patterns differ between STH species and tend to be localized. Methods. Incidence data of STHs including roundworm (Ascaris lumbricoides), whipworm (Trichuris trichiura) and hookworms per primary health facility for 2008 were linked to spatially delineated primary health center service areas. Prevalence data per district for individual and combined STH infections from the 2008 nationwide survey in Rwanda were also obtained. Results. A comparison of reported prevalence and incidence data indicated significant positive correlations for roundworm (R2 = 0.63) and hookworm (R2 = 0.27). Weak positive correlations were observed for whipworm (R2 = 0.02) and the three STHs combined (R2 = 0.10). Incidence of roundworm and whipworm were found to be focalized with significant spatial autocorrelation (Moran’s I > 0: 0.05−0.38 and p ≤ 0.03), with (very) high incidence rates in some focal areas. In contrast, hookworm incidence is ubiquitous and randomly distributed (Moran’s I > 0: 0.006 and p = 0.74) with very low incidence rates. Furthermore, an exploratory regression analysis identified relationships between helminth infection cases and potential environmental and socio-economic risk factors. Conclusions. Findings show that the spatial distribution of STH incidence is significantly associated with soil properties (sand proportion and pH), rainfall, wetlands and their uses, population density and proportion of rural residents. Identified spatial patterns are important for guiding STH prevention and control programs.

Evidence of reduced academic performance among schoolchildren with helminth infection

Background

Soil-transmitted helminths (STHs) pose a formidable health risk to school-age children in resource-limited settings. Unfortunately, mass deworming campaigns have been derailed since the onset of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. The present study assessed the cross-sectional associations between STHs, nutritional status and academic performance of schoolchildren in the Banda District of Ghana.

Methods

Schoolchildren (5–16 y of age; n=275) were recruited through both school and household visits by community health workers using a multistage cluster sampling technique. In addition to school microscopy, anthropometric records were also taken.

Results

The prevalence of geohelminthiasis was 40.4% (95% confidence interval 34.6 to 46.2). STHs targeted for elimination by the World Health Organization and national programmes were detected among schoolchildren. Children with intestinal parasite infection (53.7 [standard deviation {SD} 11.5]) had lower mean academic scores compared with uninfected children (59.6 [SD 16.9]) (p=0.034). In multiple regression analysis, intestinal parasite infection status and z-scores for weight-for-age showed a collective significant effect on the academic score (F₁₁₁₇=8.169, p<0.001, R²=0.125).

Conclusions

Schoolchildren with STHs had poorer academic performance compared with uninfected children, despite their nutritional status. In addition to school feeding programmes, school-based mass drug administration campaigns may be critical for improving learning outcomes in young schoolchildren.

Prevalence of soil-transmitted helminths infections among preschool and school-age children in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

There is a lack of comprehensive national data on prevalence, geographical distribution of different species, and temporal trends in soil-helminthiasis (STHs). Therefore, this study aimed to provide a summary and location of the available data on STHs infection among preschool and school-age children in Ethiopia.

METHODS

The search was carried out in Medline via PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct, Web of Science, and Google Scholar on data published between 1997 to February 2020 for studies describing the rate of STHs infection among preschool and school-age in Ethiopian. We followed the Patient, Intervention, Comparison, and Outcome (PICO) approach to identify the studies. Meta-regression was performed to understand the trends and to summarize the prevalence using the "metaprop" command using STATA software version 14.0 RESULTS: A total of 29,311 of the 61,690 children examined during the period under review were infected with one or more species of intestinal parasites yielding an overall prevalence of 48% (95% CI: 43-53%). The overall pooled estimate of STHs was 33% (95% CI: 28-38%). The prevalence was 44% (95% CI: 31-58%) in SNNPR, 34% (95% CI: 28-41%) in Amhara region, 31% (95% CI: 19-43%) in Oromia region and 10% (95% CI: 7-12%) in Tigray region. Soil-transmitted helminths infection rate has been decreasing from 44% (95% CI: 30-57%) pre-Mass Drug Administration (MDA) era (1997-2012) to 30% (95% CI: 25-34%) post-MDA (2013-2020), although statistically not significant (p = 0.45). A lumbricoides was the predominant species with a prevalence of 17%.

CONCLUSION

Southern Nations Nationalities and Peoples Region, Amhara, and Oromia regions carry the highest-burden and are categorized to Moderate Risk Zones (MRZ) and therefore, requiring MDA once annually with Albendazole or Mebendazole. The prevalence of STHs decreased after MDA compared to before MDA, but the decline was not statistically significant. A. lumbricoides was the predominant species of STHs among preschool and school-age children in Ethiopia. The high prevalence of STHs observed in this review, underscores the need for better control and prevention strategies in Ethiopia.

Prevalence of Intestinal Protozoa and Soil Transmitted Helminths Infections among School Children in Jaragedo Town, South Gondar Zone of Ethiopia

Background

Parasitism is a relationship where one, the parasite, harms the host or lives at the expense of the host. Intestinal parasites (protozoa and STHs-soil-transmitted helminths) cause gastrointestinal tract infection in humans and animals. Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) predominate the tropics and subtropics and affect poor countries, where school children suffer the most. To prevent and control these infections, local risk factors must first be identified. The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections and associated risk factors among school children in Jaragedo town schools, South Gondar Zone of Ethiopia.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted from October 2018 to April 30, 2019, involving 396 students from one elementary and one secondary school. Stratified simple random sampling method was used. A questionnaire was prepared to collect sociodemographic and socioeconomic data of the study subjects. Stool samples were collected and examined using formalin-ether concentration technique. Data were analyzed using SAS software version 9.4. Descriptive statistics were used to give a clear picture of population characteristics. Logistic regression was also used to determine the relationship between dependent variables (primary infection) with independent (explanatory) variables using SAS software.

Results

Results showed that the overall prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections was 65.4%. E. histolytica was the most prevalent intestinal parasite (12–14%) followed by G. lamblia (8–9%); other parasites could not infect more than 5% of the study subjects. Generally, parasitism did not vary between the sexes. The logistic regression analysis showed that grade, level of students, water source, habit of consuming raw meat, and level of income had a strong effect on intestinal parasitic infection (P < 0.05). Other explanatory variables were not significant (P > 0.05). High prevalence of parasites indicates improper disposal of waste, low socioeconomic level, low living standard, and poor water quality.

Conclusion

Therefore, short-term and long-term intervention strategies are required to minimize rates of infection.

Prevalence of Soil-Transmitted Helminthes and Associated Risk Factors Among People of Ethiopia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background:

A Soil-transmitted helminthic infection (STHIs) remains a notable health problem in resource-limited countries.

Objective:

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to determine the overall prevalence of STH infections in Ethiopia.

Methods:

Articles written in English were searched from online public databases. Searching terms taken separately and jointly were “prevalence,” “soil-transmitted helminths” “nematode,” “Geo-helminths,” “roundworm,” “Necator,” “Ancylostoma,” “Ascaris,” “Trichuris,” “hookworm,” “whipworm,” “ S. strecoralies,” “associated factors,” and “Ethiopia.” We used STATA version 14 for meta-analysis and Cochran’s Q test statistics and the I2 test for heterogeneity.

Result:

From 297 reviewed articles 41 fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The pooled prevalence of STH infections in Ethiopia was 36.78% Ascaris lumbricoides had the highest pooled prevalence 17.63%, followed by hook worm12.35%. Trichuris trichiura 7.24% when the prevalence of S. strecoralies was 2.16% (95% CI: 0.97-3.35). Age, sex, residence, family education level, lack of shoe wearing habits and open defecation were identified as risk factors for STH infection. Eating unwashed and uncooked fruit and vegetables increased the risk of STH infection by 1.88 times while untrimmed finger nail and lack of hand washing habits increase the risk of STH infection by 1.28 and 3.16 times respectively with 95% CI.

Limitation:

Lack of published studies from Afar, Gambela, Somali, and Benshangul gumuz regions may affect the true picture. The other limitation is that the search strategy will be restricted articles published only in the English language but there might be articles that published using another language.

Conclusion:

Ascaris lumbricoides, hookworms and Trichuris trichiura, are the most prevalent soil-transmitted helminthes infections in Ethiopia. Age, sex, residence, family education level, lack of shoe wearing habits Open defecation untrimmed finger nail and lack of hand washing habits significantly associated with STH infection. When eating unwashed, uncooked fruit and vegetables were not significantly associated with STH infection. Strategic use of anti-helminthic, health education, and adequate sanitation, taking into account this epidemiologic information is helpful in the control of STH infections in Ethiopia.

Trend of Soil-Transmitted Helminths in Ethiopian Children: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (2000-2018)

Background

Ethiopia is one of the tropical countries with a heavy burden of soil-transmitted helminths. As a result, the nation has been implementing mass drug administration, water, sanitation, and hygiene and health extension programs to control those parasites. Hence, updated data about the prevalence and trend of parasites over time has a pivotal role to assess the success of existing control programs.

Methods

Studies conducted between 2000 and 2018 were searched from PubMed, Google Scholar, and local journals for systematic reviews and meta-analysis following the PRISMA guideline and checklists. Eligible studies were selected based on preset inclusion and exclusion criteria. The quality of the included studies was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale in meta-analysis. Heterogeneity between studies was assessed using the Cochran Q test and I² test statistics based on the random effect model. Comprehensive meta-analysis (CMA 2.0) was used to calculate the pooled prevalence, and metaregression was run to assess the trend of parasite prevalence over time.

Results

Thirty-eight studies recruiting 16,266 participants were included in the review. The pooled prevalence of intestinal parasites was 52.0% (95% CI: 44.4-59.5). Amhara region was with the highest prevalence (60.3%; 95% CI: 50.1-69.6). Among soil-transmitted helminths, Ascaris lumbricoides (11.2%; 95% CI: 8.4-14.8) was with the highest pooled prevalence followed by hookworms (10.4%; 95% CI: 7.9-13.7) and Trichuris trichiura (3.6%; 95% CI: 2.4-5.4). Metaregression analysis revealed that all soil-transmitted helminths did not show a significantly decreasing trend over time (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

Despite various control efforts having been made, soil-transmitted helminths are of high distribution, and their prevalence is not significantly decreasing in Ethiopia. Hence, other control approaches like community-led sanitation should be integrated with mass drug administration to achieve the national goal of soil-transmitted helminth elimination by 2025.

Determinants of Helminthic Infections and Anemia among Schoolchildren in Bahir Dar Zuria District, Northwest Ethiopia

Background

Soil-transmitted helminths and Schistosoma mansoni are the major helminthic parasites that cause major public health problems among schoolchildren in developing countries. Infection with the above parasites decreases the hemoglobin level of children. However, information regarding the current status of helminthic infections and anemia is limited. Hence, this study aimed to assess the prevalence and determinants of helminthic infections and anemia among children.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 394 schoolchildren at Sekelet primary school in northwest Ethiopia, from February to March 2017. Study participants were selected by a systematic random sampling technique. Stool samples were collected and processed via the modified Ritchie's concentration technique to detect parasites in stool. A HemoCue Hb 201 analyzer was used to determine the hemoglobin level. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 23 statistical software. Association of helminthic infections and anemia with independent variables was determined using logistic regression analysis. Variables with P < 0.05 were considered statistically significant.

Results

From the total of 394 participants, 185 (46.9%), 164 (41.6%), and 112 (28.4%) were infected with intestinal parasites, helminths, and STHs, respectively. The prevalence of hookworm and Schistosoma mansoni were 106 (25.6%) and 54 (13.7%), respectively. The prevalence of anemia among the schoolchildren was 278 (70.6%). Anemia was prevalent among 55 (51.9%) hookworm-infected and 19 (35.2%) S. mansoni-infected children. Not wearing shoes and improper utilization of latrine were significantly associated (P < 0.05) with hookworm infection, and frequent swimming in the river was also significantly associated (P ≤ 0.001) with Schistosoma mansoni infection. Schistosoma mansoni and hookworm infections were also significantly associated (P ≤ 0.001) with low levels of hemoglobin.

Conclusion

Hookworm and Schistosoma mansoni infections and anemia are highly prevalent among schoolchildren. Hookworm and Schistosoma mansoni infections are significantly associated with anemia. Therefore, helminthic detection and hemoglobin determination should be done simultaneously among schoolchildren.

Human Intestinal Parasitic Infections: Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors among Elementary School Children in Merawi Town, Northwest Ethiopia

Background

Intestinal parasitic infection is still common in Ethiopia. Periodic evaluation of the current status of human intestinal parasitic infections (HIPIs) is a prerequisite to controlling these health threats. This study is aimed at assessing the prevalence and determinant factors of HIPIs among elementary school-age children in Merawi town.

Methods

A school-based cross-sectional study design was used among 403 children. The direct wet mount method was used to diagnose the stool samples. The sociodemographic and behavioral characteristics of the respondents were collected using structured questionnaires. The data were analyzed using the chi-square test and logistic regression.

Results

Out of the 403 students, the overall prevalence of HIPIs was 173 (42.9%). The magnitudes of single and double infections were 39.7% and 3.2%, respectively. Seventy-two (17.9%) were positive for Entamoeba histolytica, 63 (15.4%) for Giardia lamblia, 28 (9.6%) for Ascaris lumbricoides, 22 (6.9%) for hookworm, and 1 (0.2%) for Schistosoma mansoni. The prevalence of intestinal parasites was high in the age group of 6–11 years compared to other age groups. The following were the risk factors associated with HIPIs: groups aging 6 to 11 (AOR = 9.581; 95% CI: 0.531-17.498; P = 0.008), aging 12 to 18 (AOR = 3.047; 95% CI: 0.055-1.828; P = 0.008), not washing of hands after defecation (AOR = 3.683; 95% CI; 1.577-8.598; P = 0.003), not regularly washing of hands after defecation (AOR = 2.417; 95% CI; 1.224-4.774; P = 0.003), dirty fingernails (AOR = 2.639; 95% CI: 1.388-5.020; P = 0.003), not wearing shoes (AOR = 2.779; 95% CI: 1.267-6.096; P = 0.011), rural residence (AOR = 6.6; 95% CI; 0.06-0.351; P < 0.0001), and a family size greater than or equal to five (AOR = 2.160; 95% CI: 1.179-3.956; P = 0.013).

Conclusion

The prevalence of HIPIs among elementary school children in Merawi town was very high. Thus, there is a need for intensive health education for behavioral changes related to personal hygiene and mass treatment for effective control of HIPIs in the study area.

Prevalence, Infection Intensity and Associated Factors of Soil-Transmitted Helminthiasis Among School-Aged Children from Selected Districts in Northwest Ethiopia

Background

Globally, soil-transmitted helminths affect beyond a billion people and cause 1.9 million disability-adjusted life years worldwide. It affects children disproportionately due to their unaware activities like walking barefoot, playing with dirty objects that might be contaminated with feces. The control of soil-transmitted helminths principally relies on periodic deworming using either a single dose of albendazole/mebendazole. To assure the effectiveness of this measure, performing continuous parasitological survey is necessary. Herein, the prevalence, intensity and associated factors of soil-transmitted helminth infections were assessed among school-aged children in northwest Ethiopia.

Methods

A cross-sectional study design was conducted among school-aged children (6–14 years old) from January 21st to February 21st/2019. Multistage sampling technique was employed. A Kato-Katz concentration technique was utilized to detect STHs in stool samples. Moreover, risk factors for STH infections were assessed using well-structured questionnaire. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were used to assess the association between explanatory and the outcome variables. The magnitude of the association was measured using the adjusted odds ratio (AOR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). A P-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

The overall STHs prevalence in this study was 32.3% (95% CI: 29–35.6%) with Ascaris lumbricoides being the predominant species (24.3%) followed by hookworm (8.9%) and Trichuris trichiura (1%). Most (80.3%) of the infected school-aged children had light-intensity infections. Age of 11 years and above (AOR, 12.9, 95% CI, 1.6–103.6, P=0.004), being residing in Chuahit district (AOR, 3.9, 95% CI, 2.3–6.5, P<0.001), and untreated water supply (AOR, 1.7, 95% CI, 1.1–2.7, P=0.018) were identified as predictors for the overall STH prevalence.

Conclusion

Our findings revealed STH infections are considerable health problems in the study areas. Thus, public health interventions such as provision of safe water supply, health education, and de-worming programs should be regularly implemented in the study areas.

Assessment of the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections and associated habit and culture-related risk factors among primary schoolchildren in Debre Berhan town, Northeast Ethiopia

Background

Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) are still among the major public health issues in developing countries. Assessing the prevalence of IPIs and potential risk factors in different localities is essential to enhance control strategies. To date, no prevalence assessment study was conducted in Debre Berhan town. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of IPIs and associated habit and culture-related risk factors among primary schoolchildren in Debre Berhan town, Northeast Ethiopia.

Method

School based cross-sectional study was conducted from April to June 2017. A total of 645 children aged 6–15 years were selected from six primary schools in Debre Berhan town via a multistage random sampling technique. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data about sociodemographic and potential risk factor variables. Fresh stool samples were collected from each child and examined using direct smear and formal-ether concentration technique.

Result

Among the 645 children participated in the study, 341 (52.9%) were infected by one or more intestinal parasites. Helminths (33.8%) were more prevalent than protozoa (20%). Double parasitic infection rate was 0.9%. The predominant parasites were Ascaris lumbricoides (22.6%), Entamoeba histolytica/dispar/moshkovskii (18.1%) and Hymenolepis nana (5.7%). Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that age of child (6–9 years), family size (above 5), mother’s illiteracy and primary education, father’s illiteracy, urban-farmer father, manual-worker father, not washing hands before eating, unclean fingers, open defecation site (ODS) near residence, latrine type, cultural response to dropped food (cleaning and eating; ‘kiss and replace’), habit of playing with waste water, habit of playing with soil, habit of sucking fingers and habit of eating when playing were significantly associated with IPIs (p< 0.05). Likewise, age (6–9 years), mother’s illiteracy, urban-farmer father, not washing hands before eating, ODS near residence, tradition of cleaning and eating dropped food, habit of playing with soil, sucking fingers and eating when playing were identified as significant risk factors of A. lumbricoides infection.

Conclusion

High prevalence of IPIs among the study participants demands improvement of environmental sanitation, personal hygiene, and health education regarding the potential habit and culture-related risk factors.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-020-10148-y.

Prevalence of Soil-Transmitted Helminth Infection Among School-Aged Children of Ethiopia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background:

Soil-transmitted helminths (STH) are still major health problems in resource-poor countries. Despite several epidemiological studies were available in Ethiopia, summarized data on the prevalence of STH among school-aged children (SAC) is lacking in the country.

Objective:

This study was aimed to summarize the existing published studies of STH among SAC children in Ethiopia.

Methods:

The search was carried out in open access databases such as Science Direct, Scopus, and PubMed Central which reported STH in Ethiopia. Open access articles published between 2000 and 2019 were included in this meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence was determined using a random-effect model while heterogeneities between studies were evaluated by I² test.

Results:

A total of 46 338 children (Male = 23 374 and Female = 22 964) were included in the 70 eligible studies for this meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence of STH among SAC was 33.4%; 95% CI, 29.3% to 37.7% in Ethiopia. Ascaris lumbricoides (19.9%; 95% CI, 17.2%-22.6%) was the most prevalent STH followed by Trichuris trichiura (12.4%; 95% CI, 10.6%-14.1%), and hookworm (7.9%; 95% CI, 6.9%-8.9%) infection in the country. High prevalence of STH was observed in Oromia (42.5%; 95% CI, 31.6%-53.4%) followed by SNNPR (38.3%; 95% CI, 27.7%-48.8%) and Amhara (32.9%; 95% CI, 27.0%-38.8%) regional states. High heterogeneity on the prevalence of STH was observed across studies within and among regions (I² > 96% and P < .001).

Conclusion:

This review showed that more than one-third of the Ethiopian SAC were infected with STH. The high prevalence of STH observed in this review highlight the needs of improved control and prevention strategies in Ethiopia.

Prevalence of soil-transmitted helminthes and its association with water, sanitation, hygiene among schoolchildren and barriers for schools level prevention in technology villages of Hawassa University: Mixed design

BACKGROUND

Soil-transmitted helminths (STH) remain one of the most common causes of morbidity among children in Ethiopia. Assessment of the magnitude of STH and its association with water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) and identify barriers for school-level prevention assist public health planners to prioritize promotion strategies and is a basic step for intervention. However, there is a lack of evidence on the prevalence of STH and its association with WASH and barriers for school-level prevention among schoolchildren.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the prevalence of STH and its association with WASH and identify barriers for school level prevention in technology village of Hawassa University; 2019.

METHODS

An institution-based analytical cross-sectional study was conducted on a sample of 1080 schoolchildren from September 5 to October 15, 2019. A two-stage cluster and purposive sampling technique were used to draw the study participants. A pretested, structured questionnaire, observation checklist, and in-depth interview were used to collect the data. Two grams of stool samples were collected from each study participant and examined using direct wet mount and Kato-Katz technique. Data were entered into Epi Info version 7 and analyzed using SPSS version 25. Both bi-variable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were done. Qualitative data were analyzed using thematic content analysis method by Atlas-Ti software and presented in narratives.

RESULTS

The overall prevalence of STHs was 23.1% (95% CI = 21.4, 27.6). The identified predictors of STHs were large family size (AOR = 2.03; 95% CI = 1.53-3.99), absence of separate toilet room for male and female (AOR = 3.33; 95% CI = 1.91-5.79), toilet not easy to clean (AOR = 2.17; 95% CI = 1.44-3.33), inadequate knowledge about STHs (AOR = 2.08; 95% CI = 1.07-3.44) and children who had travelled greater than 100 meters to access toilet (AOR = 3.45; 95% CI = 2.24-8.92). These results were supported by the individual, institutional, socio-economic and cultural qualitative results.

CONCLUSION

The STHs was moderate public health concerns. Reinforcing the existing fragile water, sanitation and hygiene programs and regular deworming of schoolchildren may support to reduce the burden of STHs. Also, increasing modern family planning methods utilization to decrease family size is recommended.

Prevalence of Intestinal Parasitic Infection and Its Associated Factors Among School Children in Two Primary Schools in Harbu Town, North East Ethiopia: Cross-Sectional Study

BACKGROUND

Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) are major health problems in many developing countries. School children between the ages of 5 and 15 years suffer the highest infection rate and parasitic burden that are attributed to poor sanitation and hygiene. In Ethiopia, the prevalence of IPIs among school children is high (ranging from 66.7% to 83.8%).

METHODS

School-based cross-sectional study was conducted in two primary schools at Harbu Town, Northeast Ethiopia from February to May, 2018. Systematic random sampling technique was employed to select study participants from the two school compounds. The sample size was determined by a single population proportion statistical formula and the minimum numbers of study participants defined were 400 school children. Socio-demographic and risk factor-related information were collected using structured questionnaire. Data about detection and identification of intestinal parasites were obtained from laboratory examination of stool specimen by using wet mount and formol-ether concentration techniques. Stool specimen from each study participant was collected using clean, properly labeled and leak-proof stool cup. The data were processed and analyzed using SPSS version 20 software.

RESULTS

Out of a total of 400 study participants, 86 (21.5%) were found with one or more IPIs. Six different types of intestinal parasites were identified, Entamoeba histolytica was the most 33 (8.3%) detected parasite followed by Hymenolopis nana 19 (4.8%) and Schistosoma mansoni 19 (4.8%). The least identified parasite was Giardia lamblia, detected only from four study participants. Male study participants showed 2.42 times risk (AOR = 2.42, 95% CI = 1.25-4.7, P = 0.009) of acquiring parasitic infection than female. Presence of water body near to home and having contact with water bodies showed 7.64 (AOR= 7.64, 95% CI= 3.3-17.8, P= 0.000) and 4.6 (AOR=4.6, 95% CI: 2.04-10.57, P= 0.000) times risk of infection with parasitic infection among school children, respectively.

CONCLUSION

IPIs were highly prevalent health problem among the two primary school children in Harbu Town. Sex, availability of water bodies near to house and contact with water bodies were having significant association with the prevalence of IPIs.

Prevalence of Intestinal Parasitic Infections and Associated Risk Factors among the First-Cycle Primary Schoolchildren in Sasiga District, Southwest Ethiopia

Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) have been major public health burdens in low-income countries like Ethiopia. Studies in different areas of Ethiopia have shown a high prevalence of IPIs in poor families. A similar study has not been conducted in Sasiga District given that the area is possibly at high-risk of IPIs due to the prevailing risk factors. This study is aimed at assessing the prevalence of IPIs and associated risk factors among schoolchildren in Sasiga District, southwest Ethiopia. A school-based cross-sectional study was conducted from December 2018 to March 2019 to estimate the prevalence of IPIs and associated risk factors among the study participants. A total of 383 children were selected using resident-type and grade-level stratified systematic random sampling technique. Stool samples were examined microscopically using direct wet mount and formal-ether concentration techniques. A structured questionnaire was used to get information on the associated risk factors. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20 and p value of ≤0.05 was taken as statistically significant. The overall prevalence of IPIs among the children was 62.4% (239/383). Single, double, and triple infections were 49.9%, 10.7%, and 1.83%, respectively. Residence, family income, place of defecation, source of drinking water, shoe-wearing habit, handwashing habit after toilet use, ways of waste disposal, and cleanliness of fingernail were the most important predictors of IPIs (p < 0.05). Ascaris lumbricoides (22.7% (87/383)) and hookworms (20.6% (79/383)) were the most prevalent parasites, followed by Entamoeba histolytica (8.1%), Trichuris trichiura (7.6%), Giardia intestinalis (6.5%), Hymenolepis nana (5.7%), and Schistosoma mansoni (4.4%), in that order. Sasiga District primary schoolchildren are likely at a high burden of IPIs. Intensive health education on personal hygiene and environmental sanitation is needed.

Nutritional status and intestinal parasites among young children from pastoralist communities of the Ethiopian Somali region

Pastoralist children in the Ethiopian Somali Regional State (ESRS) are at high risk for undernutrition and intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs). We assessed the nutritional status and its association with IPIs in 500 children <5 years of age in a clustered cross‐sectional study in Adadle district, ESRS. Stool samples were microscopically examined for IPIs and biomarkers for iron and vitamin A status, anthropometry, and food variety score (FVS) were assessed. Median (interquartile range [IQR]) FVS was 2.0 (2.0, 4.0), and 35% of children were exclusively breastfed up to age 6 months. Prevalence of stunting, wasting, underweight and mid‐upper arm circumference (MUAC) <12.5 cm was 30, 34, 40, and 16%, respectively. Median (IQR) haemoglobin, ferritin, and retinol‐binding protein concentrations were 9.5 g dL^‐1 (8.2, 10.9), 6.2 μg L^‐1 (4.0, 10.2), and 0.8 μmol L⁻¹ (0.67, 0.91), respectively. Prevalence of anaemia, iron, and vitamin A deficiency was 75, 91, and 30%, respectively. IPIs' prevalence was 47%; the most prevalent IPIs were Giardia lamblia (22%) and Ascaris lumbricoides (15%). Giardial infections but not A. lumbricoides increased the risk for MUAC <12.5 cm (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 3.50, 95% confidence interval [CI] [2.21, 5.54]). The odds for anaemia were 97% (aOR: 0.03, 95% CI [0.03, 0.07]) and 89% (aOR: 0.11, 95% CI [0.11, 0.23]) less for children with FVS >2 or with exclusive breastfeeding up to 6 months, respectively. Undernutrition and IPIs are alarmingly high in <5 years of age children in ESRS. Giardial infections and low nutritional adequacy of the diet seem to be major contributing factors to the precarious nutritional status and should be addressed by appropriate interventions.

Epidemiology of intestinal parasitic infections in preschool and school-aged Ethiopian children: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Numerous studies have been carried out on assessing the prevalence of intestinal parasites infections (IPIs) amongpreschool and school-age children in Ethiopia, but there is lack of study systematically gathered and analyzedinformation for policymakers. Therefore, the aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to provide a summary on prevalence, geographical distribution and trends of IPIs among preschool and school-age childrenin Ethiopia.

METHODS

The search were carried out in Medline via PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct, Web of Science, and Google Scholar from 1996to July2019 for studies describing prevalence of IPIs among preschooland school-age children. We conducted meta-regression to understand the trends and the source of heterogeneity and pooled the prevalence using 'metaprop' command using STATA software version 14.

RESULTS

Eighty-three(83) studies examining 56,786 fecal specimens were included. The prevalence of IPIs was 48%(95%CI: 42 to 53%) and showedsignificantly decreasing trends 17% (95% CI: 2.5 to 32%) for each consecutive 6 years) and was similar in males and females. The pooled prevalence in years 1997-2002, 2003-2008, 2009-2014 and > 2014 was 71% (95% CI: 57 to 86%), 42% (95% CI: 27 to 56%), 48% (95% CI: 40 to 56%) and 42% (95% CI: 34 to 49%), respectively. Poly-parasitism was observed in 16% (95% CI: 13 to 19%,) of the cases.

CONCLUSION

Intestinal parasite infections are highly prevalent among preschool and school-age children and well distributed across the regional states of Ethiopia. Southern and Amhara regional states carry the highest burden. We observed significant decreasing trends in prevalence of IPIs among preschool and school-ageEthiopian children over the last two decades. Therefore, this study is important to locate the geographical distribution and identified high risk areas that should be prioritized further interventions, which complement global efforts towards elimination of IPIs infections by 2020.

Prevalence and factors associated with intestinal parasites among children of age 6 to 59 months in, Boricha district, South Ethiopia, in 2018

BACKGROUND

Intestinal parasites are the commonest cause of childhood diarrhea and malnutrition in Ethiopia. Information about intestinal parasites is the first fundamental step for designing intervention strategies against them. Hence, health planners can maximize their efforts. Information is scarce about intestinal parasites among children of under-five years of age in Boricha district. Therefore, this study aimed at assessing prevalence and factors associated with intestinal parasites among children of age 6 to 59 months in Boricha district, South Ethiopia.

METHODS

A community based analytical cross sectional study was conducted among 624 children of age 6 to 59 months from January 1 to 30; in 2018. We have utilized two stage stratified sampling method. Firstly, simple random sampling was used to select sample Kebeles. Secondly, systematic random sampling method was used to select the study participants. Structured and interviewer administrated questionnaire was used to collect data. Parasitological examination of children's stool was conducted microscopically. Data were entered into Epi-info, exported and analyzed by SPSS version 22. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify association between explanatory variables and outcome variable. Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) with 95% confidence interval (95%CI) was computed, and P-value < 0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Descriptive statistics was presented using texts, tables and figures.

RESULT

A total of 622 participants were included in the analysis which makes a response rate of 99.9%. Prevalence of intestinal parasites was 48.7% (95%CI, 44.8-52.6) in this study. Higher family size (AOR = 2.7, 95%CI = 1.5-5.0), medium family size (AOR = 2.3,95%CI,1.3-4.2), absence of laterine facility in the household (AOR = 2.9, 95% CI = 1.6-5.3), unable to put on shoes (AOR = 3.5,95%CI = 2.2-5.7), and eating raw vegetables (AOR = 2.6,95%CI = 1.6-4.7) were factors positively associated with intestinal parasites in this study.

CONCLUSION

Overall prevalence of intestinal parasites was almost high. Latrine facility, family size, shoes wearing habit and eating raw vegetables were significantly associated with intestinal parasites. Family planning service, sanitation and hygiene practices should be intensified through community education. Activate support of deworming program should be considered. Moreover, policy makers should give priority on creating awareness to prevent intestinal parasite.

Intestinal parasitic infections and determinant factors among school-age children in Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to determine the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections and associated factors among school-age children in Sebeya primary school, northern Ethiopia, 2017.

RESULTS

The prevalence of intestinal parasites in school-age children was (29.9%). A total of six parasites were detected in this study. E. histolytica/dispar 19.43% (82/422) and G. lamblia 8.29% (35/422) were the predominant ones. Unclean fingernail (AOR = 1.72), defecating in the open field (AOR = 2.82), and being barefooted (AOR = 1.72) were the determinant factors for intestinal parasitic infections. Frequently washing hands reduced the chance of infections by 68%. Furthermore, children in grade 1-4 and 5-6 had higher odds developing the infections than those in grade 7-8 (AOR = 8.21 and AOR = 2.50, respectively).

Soil-Transmitted Helminths And Other Intestinal Parasites Among Schoolchildren In Southern Ethiopia

Background

Intestinal parasitic infections are the neglected tropical diseases that have a devastating effect and leads to malnutrition, morbidity and mortality in schoolchildren. The aim of this study was to determine the presence of soil-transmitted and other intestinal parasites among schoolchildren in southern Ethiopia.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted in Gara Riketa primary school children at Hawassa Tula Sub-City, Southern Ethiopia from March 1 to April 20, 2017. The parent of participating children was interviewed with a structured questionnaire to collect the sociodemographic and risk factors data. Well-trained laboratory technicians were involved in the stool examination through direct and concentration methods. The data were entered and analyzed using SPSS version 20. ORs at 95% CI were considered as a statistically significant association with a p-value < 0.05.

Results

Out of 384 schoolchildren enrolled for the study, 260 (67.7%) were infected with one or more intestinal parasites. The predominantly identified parasite was Ascaris lumbricoides 146 (38.0%) followed by hookworms 12 (3.1%). The study showed that intestinal parasitic infections have a statistically significant association with being in 4th grade, the mother´s educational status (grade 9-12), having cut nails and washing hands before eating.

Conclusion

The rates of soil-transmitted helminths and other intestinal parasitic infections were very high in Gara Riketa primary school children. Based on the statistical analysis, hygiene and nail clipping are important habits to prevent infection with intestinal parasites.

Assessment on the prevalence and risk factors of gastrointestinal parasites on schoolchildren at Bochesa Elementary School, around Lake Zwai, Ethiopia

Objectives

This study was aimed to assess the prevalence and risk factors of gastrointestinal parasites on schoolchildren at Bochesa Elementary School around Lake Zwai, Ethiopia. Cross-sectional study was conducted on 384 schoolchildren in May 2016. The gastrointestinal parasites were examined with wet mount and formol-ether concentration techniques. Chi-square (χ²) test was used to evaluate the association between categorical variables and infection prevalence. Binary logistic regression on SPSS version 21 was used, values were considered significant when the p-value was less than 0.05.

Results

The overall prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites was 22.6%. Males, 54 (14.1%) were more infected than females, 32 (8.3%), and 1–4 grade category, 64 (16.7%) were more infected than 5–8 grade category, 22 (5.7%). Age groups of 7–14, 78 (20.3%) were also more infected than > 15, 8 (2.1%); however, the variation was not significant (p > 0.05). In this study, parasitic coinfection was common; however, single gastrointestinal parasites were more dominant. The overall rate of gastrointestinal parasites shows that the environmental conditions where students pass their times are conducive to water-related diseases. Health education on personal and environmental hygiene keeping should be given to schoolchildren and safe wetland playing grounds should be prepared.

Intestinal parasitic infections and associated factors among mentally disabled and non-disabled primary school students, Bahir Dar, Amhara regional state, Ethiopia, 2018: a comparative cross-sectional study

Background

Intestinal parasitic infections are still common in low-income countries including Ethiopia, particularly in children due to low-quality drinking water, poor personal and environmental sanitation. Disabled individuals are excluded from most academic, economic, social and cultural opportunities, they are among the poorest and most marginalized of the whole world’s people.

The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections and associated factors among mentally disabled and non-disabled students at primary schools in Bahir Dar city, Amhara regional state, Ethiopia, 2018.

Methods

A school-based Comparative cross-sectional study design was conducted from November 1–30, 2018. A total of 418 study participants, 104 mentally disabled and 314 non-disabled students were recruited through a simple random sampling technique. The collected data were coded, entered and cleaned with EpiData version 3.1 and analyzed using SPSS version 23. Multivariable logistic regression was conducted to identify factors associated with intestinal parasitic infections. The adjusted odds ratio with a 95% Confidence interval at a 5% level of significance was used to measure the strength of association.

Results

The mean age of study participants was 14.05 ± 3.66 and 11.96 ± 2.94 for mentally disabled students and non-disabled students. Prevalence of parasitic infection was 56.70% (n = 59) for mentally disabled students whereas 41.10%(n = 129) for non-disabled students. Unclean fingernails [AOR = 2.42; 1.40,4.17], health checkups [AOR = 1.87;1.16,3.02], hand washing with water only [AOR = 2.48; 1.49,4.12], cooking and sanitation source of water [AOR = 4.40;2.32,8.36], Grade [ (1–4)] [AOR = 2.27;1.41,3.67], sex [AOR = 1.64;1.03,2.63] and Family size> = 7 [AOR = 2.74;1.25,5.99] were variables which showed statistically significant association with intestinal parasitic infections.

Conclusion

The prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection was higher among mentally disabled students than non-disabled students. Unclean fingernails, health checkups, hand washing habits, source of water, family size, sex and Grade of students have had a statistically significant association with intestinal parasitic infections. Periodic medicinal treatment was needed twice a year for mentally disabled and once a year for non-disabled students.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12879-019-4165-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Intestinal parasites co-infection and associated factors among active pulmonary tuberculosis patients in selected health centers, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: unmatched case control study

Background

In co-endemic areas, rate of intestinal parasites and tuberculosis (TB) co-infection thought to be high. However, there are limited studies on the epidemiology of this co-infection in Ethiopia. Therefore, the present study aimed to generate evidence on intestinal parasites co-infection rate and associated factors among pulmonary tuberculosis patients (PTB) and their household contacts in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Methods

Unmatched case-control study was conducted. Data were collected from 91 PTB patients (cases) and 89 household contacts (controls). Socio-demographic characteristics and associated factors were collected using structured questionnaire. Sputum, stool and blood specimens were collected, processed and examined for PTB, intestinal parasites and Human Immunodeficiency virus anti-body test, respectively. Data were entered and analyzed by Statistical Packages for Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 20. Descriptive statistics, Fisher’s exact test, binary logistic regression, and odds ratio were used. P-value of < 0.05 was considered as statistically significant.

Results

The infection rate of intestinal parasites based on one stool samples in PTB patients and controls was 22 and 9%, respectively. The difference was statistically significant (COR = 2.85;95% CI = 1.18–6.87). The most prevalent intestinal parasite in PTB patients was Gardia lamblia (8.8%, 8), followed equally by Ascaris lumbricoides, Haymenolopsis nana and Entamoeba histolytica/dispar (4.4%, 4). Co-infection in PTB patients was associated with body mass index (BMI) < 18.5 (AOR = 6.71;95% CI = 1.65–27.25) and dirty material in finger nails (AOR = 8.99;95% CI = 2.46–32.78). There was no variable associated with parasitic infections in controls in our analysis, which might be due to the low prevalence of intestinal parasites’.

Conclusions

There was a statistical significant difference in the infection rate of intestinal parasites in PTB patients compared to healthy household contacts. The consequence of co-infection on developing an active disease, disease severity and treatment efficacy needs to be investigated in future.

Prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections and associated risk factors among Jawi primary school children, Jawi town, north-west Ethiopia

BACKGROUND

Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) have been major public health problems in low income countries primarily affecting school children. Previous studies in Ethiopia have shown high burden of intestinal parasitic infections in most children. In order to gain a deeper insight into the magnitude of the problem more information is needed from different localities where similar studies have not been conducted. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of IPIs and associated risk factors among school children in Jawi Primary School, Jawi town, north -west Ethiopia.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted from April to June 2017 to assess the prevalence of IPIs and associated risk factors among Jawi Primary School children, Ethiopia. A total of 422 children were selected using age-stratified systematic random sampling technique. Stool samples were examined microscopically using direct wet-mount and formal-ether concentration techniques. A structured questionnaire was used to obtain information regarding the associated risk factors. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20 and p value < 0.05 was taken as statistically significant.

RESULTS

Of 406 students examined for IPIs, 235 (57.88%) were positive for one or more intestinal parasites. Single, double and triple infections were 41.9, 6.2 and 1.2%, respectively. Overall infection rate was slightly higher in males (51.85%) than in females (45.30%) though the difference was not significant. Higher prevalence rate (about 51-53%) was recorded among 6 to 18 years old children. Prevalence of Giardia lamblia was the highest (19.95%), followed by hookworm (13.8%), Schistosoma mansoni (10.3%), Entamoeba histolytica/dispar (5.9%), Hymenolepsis nana (4.2%), Taenia species (3%) and Ascaris lumbricoides (0.73%), in that order. Among the risk factors assessed, age, hand washing habit before meals, open field defecation habit, consistency of wearing shoes, habit of eating raw and unwashed vegetables, and finger nail cleanliness and trimming habit were found to be the most important predictors associated with high risk of IPIs (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

High prevalence of IPIs among Jawi Primary school children demands improved health education on regular hand washing, latrine use, wearing shoes, cleaning finger nails, not crossing rivers with bare foot and avoiding eating raw vegetables.

Burden of intestinal helminths and associated factors three years after initiation of mass drug administration in Arbaminch Zuria district, Southern Ethiopia

BACKGROUND

Epidemiological information on the burden of various parasitic infections and associated factors in different localities is indispensable to develop appropriate control and prevention measures as well as to monitor and evaluate existing programs. Hence the aim of the present study was to assess the prevalence and associated factors of intestinal helminths among school age children in Arbaminch Zuria district, Southern Ethiopia.

METHODS

A community based cross-sectional study was conducted by recruiting 391 primary school age children. Participants were selected using simple random sampling technique. Pre-tested structured questionnaire was used to collect data about socio-demographic characteristics and perceived factors associated with intestinal parasitosis. Stool microscopic examination was done following standard protocol. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Science version 22.

RESULTS

Among 391 children participated, 181 (46.3%; 95% CI: 41.9-51.5) were infected with intestinal helminths. The magnitudes of single and double infections were 40.2% and 6.1% respectively. Seven helminths were detected among which Ascaris lumbricoides was with the highest frequency (56, 14.3%) followed by hookworms (55, 14.1%). Not washing fruits and vegetables before consumption (AOR = 2.16; 95%CI: 1.10-4.25, p = 0.026) and habit of swimming (AOR = 1.17; 95%CI: 1.03-1.95, p = 0.045) were significantly associated with helminthic infection.

CONCLUSION

High prevalence of intestinal helminthic infections among school age children demands integration of deworming with water, hygiene and sanitation as well as consistent health education.

Intestinal parasitic infections and risk factors: a cross-sectional survey of some school children in a suburb in Accra, Ghana

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to determine the prevalence and establish some risk factors associated with the acquisition of gastrointestinal parasitic infections in school children in Accra, Ghana.

RESULTS

The overall prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection was 15%. Giardia lamblia (10%) and Schistosoma mansoni (1.7%) were the common parasites found. Out of the 15% students postive for intestinal parasites, 13.6% had single parasites and 1.3% had double parasitic infections. Children between the ages of 4-5 and 6-7 years (20% each) had the most parasitic infections. The prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection was not significantly related to gender (p = 0.1451), and source of drinking water (p = 0.8832). However, a statistically significant association between children infected with parasites and close proximity to domestic animals or pets was observed (p = 0.0284). Continuous education on personal hygiene, environmental sanitation and deworming of domestic animals or pets are required to reduce the prevalence of intestinal parasites in school children in Accra.

Prevalence of Intestinal Helminths Infestation in Children Attending Princess Marie Louise Children's Hospital in Accra, Ghana

The deworming exercise program does not cover all children who are not in school. This study determined the prevalence and species type of helminth infestation and associated factors among children attending Princess Marie Louise Children's Hospital in Accra, Ghana. Children (225) below the age of 10 who have not taken antihelminthic drugs prior to the study period were recruited between May and June 2015. Children or guardians were interviewed using structured questionnaires and fresh stools were collected and processed for helminths species identification using microscopy. Data were analyzed using Stata version 12. Overall helminths infestation prevalence was 17.33% (39/225). The identified species were hookworm (10.22% (23/225)) and Ascaris lumbricoides (7.11% (16/225)). No double infestation was observed. Significant associations were observed between infestation and age group beyond 4 years (48 months) (aOR = 16.72, 95% CI 1.00-279.72), place of residence (aOR = 7.35, 95% CI 1.68-32.11), washing hands after using toilet (0.04, 95% CI 0.01-0.20), and dirt on fingernails of children (7.96, 95% CI 1.73-36.65). This study demonstrates high prevalence of helminths parasites, hookworm, and Ascaris lumbricoides in children attending PMLCH. Deworming exercise should be extended to children hospitals in developing countries.

Prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections and associated risk factors among students at Dona Berber primary school, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia

BACKGROUND

Intestinal parasitic infections are still one of the major health concerns in developing countries. Monitoring of intestinal parasitic infection and associated risk factors are essential for intervention strategies. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection and associated risk factors among students at Dona Berber primary school, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia.

METHODS

School based cross-sectional study was conducted among students at Dona Berber primary school from October 2015 to June 2016. Three hundred fifty nine students were involved in the study by providing stool specimens and detailed personal information. Students were selected by stratified and systematic random sampling method. Fresh stool samples were collected from each student and processed by formal-ether fecal concentration technique. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20.0 statistical software and p value <0.05 were used as statistically significant.

RESULTS

Among the 359 students participated in the study, 235 (65.5%) were infected by one or more intestinal parasites. The rates of single and double parasitic infections among students were 49.6% and 16.2%, respectively. The most prevalent parasite detected in the study was E. histolytica/dispar (24.5%) followed by hookworm (22.8%). Among the different variables assessed in the study, family size of 6 (AOR = 4.90; 95% CI, 2.03-11.83), irregularly shoe wearing habit (AOR = 2.85; 95% CI, 1.53-5.32) and unclean finger nail (AOR = 3.68; 95% CI, 1.87-7.26) were independently predict intestinal parasitic infections. Student drinking well water (AOR = 2.51; 95% CI, 2.30-4.86) and unclean finger nail (AOR = 4.42; 95% CI, 2.55-7.65) were strongly associated with E. histolytica/dispar infection. Likewise, irregular shoe wearing habit (AOR = 14.13; 95% CI, 7.06-28.29) was strongly associated with hookworm infections.

CONCLUSION

High prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection among the study participants demands improvement of health education, environmental sanitation and quality of water sources.

Prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections and associated risk factors among pregnant women attending antenatal care center at Felege Hiwot Referral Hospital, northwest Ethiopia

BACKGROUND

Parasitic infections affect tens of millions of pregnant women worldwide, and directly or indirectly lead to a spectrum of adverse maternal and fetal/placental effects. The objective of this study was to assess the prevalence of intestinal parasite infections and associated risk factors among pregnant women attending antenatal care center in Felege Hiwot Referral Hospital, Bahir Dar city, northwest Ethiopia.

METHODS

A cross-sectional hospital based study was conducted from November 2013 to January 2014 among 384 pregnant women. Stool samples were examined for the presence of trophozoites, cysts, oocysts, and ova using direct, formal-ether sedimentation, and modified Ziehl-Neelsen techniques.

RESULTS

An overall prevalence of 31.5 % intestinal parasite infections was recorded. Eight different species of intestinal parasites were found: two protozoan and six helminth species. The highest prevalence was due to Giardia lamblia (13.3 %) followed by Entamoeba histolytica/dispar (7.8 %), hookworm (5.5 %), Ascaris lumbricoides (2.9 %), Schistosoma mansoni (2.9 %), Strongyloides stercoralis (1.6 %), Taenia spp. (0.8 %), and Hymenolepis nana (0.3 %).

CONCLUSIONS

A relatively high prevalence of intestinal parasite infections was observed among pregnant women. Routine stool examination and provision of health education are required for early medical intervention that would affect the pregnant mothers and their foetuses.

Intestinal parasitic infections among children under five years of age presenting with diarrhoeal diseases to two public health facilities in Hawassa, South Ethiopia

BACKGROUND

Diarrhoea is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in children under 5 years of age in developing countries, including Ethiopia. It is caused by a wide range of pathogens, including parasites, bacteria and viruses. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of infection with intestinal parasites (IPs) (and types) among children under 5 years of age with diarrhoeal diseases.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted at Adare Hospital and Millennium Health Centre, both located in Hawassa, South Ethiopia, from June 6 to October 28, 2011. Children under 5 years of age with diarrhoea who visited these health facilities during the study period were included in the study. Data relating to demography and risk factors associated with intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) were gathered using a structured questionnaire. Single, fresh stool specimens were examined for IPs using the direct wet mount examination, followed by Ziehl-Neelsen staining of formol-ether concentrated samples, as per standard procedures. Data were analysed using SPSS Statistics 20 software.

RESULTS

A total of 158 children (51.3 % male and 48.7 % female) participated in the study. Overall, the prevalence of IPs was 26.6 % (42/158). Two species of IPs were detected in six children (3.8 %). Entamoeba histolytica/dispar/moshkovskii was the predominant parasite identified (11.4 %), followed by Giardia duodenalis (7.0 %). The multivariable analysis revealed that the age group ≥24 months was significantly associated (AOR = 0.221, 95 %CI: 0.085-0.576) with prevalence of IPIs.

CONCLUSION

This study found that intestinal parasites are common among children with diarrheal diseases. The most frequently detected species was E. histolytica/dispar/moshkovskii. Health information about how to prevent diarrheal diseases in general and IPIs in particular should be provided to parents of young children.