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Mohd Hanapi IR, Behnke JM, Sahimin N, Saifulazmi NF, Golam Mohammad Khan ASJ, Abdul Mutalib RNS, Lau YL, Mohd Zain SN. Intestinal parasitic infections and risk analysis among urban refugees in the Klang Valley, Malaysia. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2024; 118:18-32. [PMID: 37497742 DOI: 10.1093/trstmh/trad047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Global studies show intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) have been introduced and spread with refugee inflows from low to high socio-economic countries. However, there is relatively limited information on the prevalence of infections among the community. METHODS A 2-year cross-sectional study was conducted to determine the prevalence and associated risk factors for infections among urban refugees in the Klang Valley, Malaysia. A total of 418 faecal samples were collected and examined by microscopy. RESULTS Faecal screening revealed moderate levels (32.3%) of infections in the community. Three nematode (Ascaris lumbricoides, Trichuris trichiura and hookworm) and three protozoan species (Entamoeba, Giardia and Cryptosporidium) were recorded, with the highest prevalence being A. lumbricoides (20.6%) followed by T. trichiura (10.3%), while other infections were <5%. Statistical analysis found that young males with less education were more likely to be infected with helminths. Additionally, living near waste disposal sites, the presence of stray animals, eating with bare hands, bare footedness, poor handwashing practices and no anthelmintic treatment constituted significant risk factors for helminth infections. Protozoan infections were linked to drinking tap water or from water dispensers and poor handwashing practices. CONCLUSIONS These findings emphasize the importance of health education in addition to introduction of biannual anthelmintic treatment to promote community health and well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Izzah Ruzana Mohd Hanapi
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Jerzy M Behnke
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Norhidayu Sahimin
- Tropical Infectious Diseases Research and Education Centre, Universiti Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Nur Fadlin Saifulazmi
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | | | - Raisya Nur Syazmeen Abdul Mutalib
- Department of Biomedical Science, Kulliyah of Allied Health Science, International Islamic University Malaysia, 25200 Kuantan, Pahang, Malaysia
| | - Yee Ling Lau
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Siti Nursheena Mohd Zain
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Agustina KK, Wirawan IMA, Sudarmaja IM, Subrata IM, Dharmawan NS. Ascaris suum - A zoonosis in Bali, Indonesia. Trop Parasitol 2023; 13:100-106. [PMID: 37860613 PMCID: PMC10583779 DOI: 10.4103/tp.tp_24_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Ascariasis is a common disease in humans and pigs. In previous reports, it has been known that ascariasis in humans is not only caused by Ascaris lumbricoides but also by Ascaris suum which is known to originate from pigs. Aims and Objectives This research aims to identify the species of Ascaris that infect traditional pig farmers in Bali, Indonesia. Materials and Methods To achieve this, an observational study was conducted, in which 239 feces samples were collected from traditional pig farmers. The collected samples were then divided into two parts, with one part stored in a pot containing 10% formalin for microscopic testing, and the other part stored in 70% ethanol for molecular testing. In cases where Ascaris infection was observed during the microscopic examination, a further test was conducted using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method for molecular examination. The DNA derived from the PCR was then subjected to DNA sequencing. Results The result was compared to A. suum gene data previously published in the Gene Bank. The results of the microscopic examination showed that 22 farmers were infected with Ascaris. However, PCR testing and DNA sequencing indicated that three infections were caused by A. suum. Conclusion Therefore, it can be concluded that A. suum is a zoonosis in Bali. Thus, efforts to control ascariasis must pay attention to the presence of pigs around it. Handling of ascariasis is not only carried out in humans but also in pigs and the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kadek Karang Agustina
- Department of Veterinary Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Udayana University, Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia
- Department of Doctoral Program in Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Udayana University, Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia
| | - I Made Ady Wirawan
- Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Udayana University, Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia
| | - I Made Sudarmaja
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Udayana University, Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia
| | - I Made Subrata
- Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Udayana University, Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia
| | - Nyoman Sadra Dharmawan
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Udayana University, Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia
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Phonekeo S, Kounnavong S, Vonglokham M, Siengsounthone L, Homsana A, Gummin S, Vounatsu P, Nittiyanant P, Worawichawong S, Aekplakorn W, Odermatt P, Sayasone S. Intestinal helminth infections and associated risk factors among adults in the Lao People's Democratic Republic. Infect Dis Poverty 2023; 12:61. [PMID: 37386528 DOI: 10.1186/s40249-023-01112-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Helminthiases are highly endemic in Southeast Asia, including the Lao People's Democratic Republic (Lao PDR). This study aimed to assess the current intestinal helminth infections and the associated risk factors among adults across the Lao PDR. METHODS A cross-sectional survey was conducted in 165 villages across 17 provinces and the Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR. A multi-stage sampling method was employed to select the adult study participants (≥ 18 years). Data collection included (1) interview of the study participants, (2) physical measurements, and (3) a five gram of stool sample from each study participant was collected and preserved in 10% formalin solution for intestinal helminth detection using formalin-ether concentration technique (FECT). Descriptive analysis was used to describe the socio-demographic characteristics of study participants and the prevalence of intestinal helminth infections. Logistic regressions were applied to test the association between intestinal helminth infection and individual risk factors. A P-value below 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS A total of 2800 study participants were enrolled. Their average age was 46.0 years; 57.8% were female. Overall, 30.9%, 8.6% and 1.5% of study participants were infected with one, two, or three different intestinal helminth species, respectively. Among the study participants 21.6% were infected with hookworm, 18.8% with Opisthorchis viverrini-like (Ov-like) infection, 4.8% with Strongyloides stercoralis, 2.3% with Ascaris lumbricoides, 1.5% with Trichuris trichiura, and 3.3% with Taenia spp. Ov-like infection was of high prevalence in the southern (28.8%) and central (21.3%) provinces, while hookworm (26.3%), A. lumbricoides (7.3%), T. trichiura (3.1%), and Taenia spp. (4.2%) were prevalent in the northern provinces. Risk analysis showed that men were more likely to be infected with hookworm [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 1.2, P = 0.019]. The Lao-Tai ethnic group had a 5.2-times (P < 0.001) higher chance of having Ov-like infection than the minorities. Possession of toilet facility at home was associated with reduced odds for Ov-like (aOR = 0.4, P < 0.001) and hookworm (aOR = 0.6, P < 0.001) infections. CONCLUSIONS Our study provides a nationwide update of the intestinal helminth prevalence among adults in Lao PDR. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first Lao nationwide survey on intestinal helminth infections and risk factors in adults. It provides crucial information for national control programs for intestinal helminth infections in Lao PDR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sengaloun Phonekeo
- Lao Tropical and Public Health Institute, Ministry of Health, Vientiane, Lao People's Democratic Republic
| | - Sengchanh Kounnavong
- Lao Tropical and Public Health Institute, Ministry of Health, Vientiane, Lao People's Democratic Republic
| | - Manithong Vonglokham
- Lao Tropical and Public Health Institute, Ministry of Health, Vientiane, Lao People's Democratic Republic
| | - Latsamy Siengsounthone
- Lao Tropical and Public Health Institute, Ministry of Health, Vientiane, Lao People's Democratic Republic
| | - Anousin Homsana
- Lao Tropical and Public Health Institute, Ministry of Health, Vientiane, Lao People's Democratic Republic
- Epidemiology and Public Health Department, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Sascha Gummin
- Epidemiology and Public Health Department, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Penelope Vounatsu
- Epidemiology and Public Health Department, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Prawat Nittiyanant
- Ramathibodi Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Suchin Worawichawong
- Ramathibodi Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Wichai Aekplakorn
- Department of Pathology, Ramathibodi Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Peter Odermatt
- Epidemiology and Public Health Department, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Somphou Sayasone
- Lao Tropical and Public Health Institute, Ministry of Health, Vientiane, Lao People's Democratic Republic.
- Epidemiology and Public Health Department, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland.
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
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Murtaza SF, Lee LJ, Usaini NN, Gan WY, Sulaiman N. Factors Associated With Anemia Among Orang Asli Children Aged Two to Six Years in Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia. Cureus 2023; 15:e35511. [PMID: 37007386 PMCID: PMC10050992 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.35511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/26/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Anemia is a global public health problem that needs urgent attention, especially in early childhood. Young children living in remote indigenous communities are vulnerable to anemia. This study aimed to determine factors associated with anemia among children of the Orang Asli (OA) community, aged two to six years old. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among 269 OA children, together with their biological non-pregnant mothers. Their mothers were interviewed using a structured questionnaire to gather information on sociodemographic characteristics, sanitation facility and personal hygiene, food security, and dietary diversity. Anthropometric and biochemical assessments were measured using standard protocols. Results One in five of the OA children was anemic (21.2%) and had a low birth weight (20.4%). About 27.7% of the children were underweight, 35.2 % were stunted, 6.1% were wasted, and 5.7% were overweight. One-third of them (35.0%) had parasitic infections and almost all were food-insecure (96.3%). As for the mothers, more than one-third of them were anemic (39.0%), 58.9% had abdominal obesity, and 61.8% were overweight and obese. Parasitic infections (adjusted OR (AOR)=2.49, 95%CI=1.23-5.06), not wearing shoes outside the house (AOR=2.95, 95%CI=1.39-6.27), and mothers with anemia (AOR=2.62, 95%CI=1.30-5.28) were associated with increased risk of anemia among OA children. Conclusion Preventing maternal anemia and strengthening knowledge on sanitation and hygiene could be incorporated into nutrition intervention programs to address anemia issues among OA children.
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Nath TC, Eom KS, Choe S, Mukutmoni M, Khanum H, Bhuiyan JU, Islam KM, Islam S, Zohra F, Park H, Lee D. An update of intestinal helminth infections among urban slum communities in Bangladesh. IJID REGIONS 2022; 5:1-7. [PMID: 36105668 PMCID: PMC9465421 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijregi.2022.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Revised: 07/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Parasitic infections remain prevalent in urban slum communities in Bangladesh. School-aged children had a higher infection rate compared with adults. Ascaris lumbricoides was predominant in children, and hookworms were predominant in adults. Rhabditis sp. was observed for the first time in humans in Bangladesh. A significant association was found between free-roaming animals and human parasitic infections.
Aim Methods Results Conclusion
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Affiliation(s)
- Tilak Chandra Nath
- Department of Parasitology, Sylhet Agricultural University, Sylhet, Bangladesh
- International Parasite Resource Bank, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, South Korea
| | - Keeseon S. Eom
- International Parasite Resource Bank, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, South Korea
- Department of Parasitology and Parasite Research Centre, School of Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, South Korea
| | - Seongjun Choe
- Department of Parasitology and Parasite Research Centre, School of Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, South Korea
| | | | - Hamida Khanum
- Department of Zoology, Dhaka University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Jamal Uddin Bhuiyan
- Department of Parasitology, Sylhet Agricultural University, Sylhet, Bangladesh
| | | | - Saiful Islam
- Department of Parasitology, Sylhet Agricultural University, Sylhet, Bangladesh
| | - Fatematuz Zohra
- Chittagong Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Khulshi, Bangladesh
| | - Hansol Park
- International Parasite Resource Bank, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, South Korea
- Corresponding authors at: International Parasite Resource Bank (iPRB), Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, South Korea.
| | - Dongmin Lee
- International Parasite Resource Bank, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, South Korea
- Department of Parasitology and Parasite Research Centre, School of Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, South Korea
- Corresponding authors at: International Parasite Resource Bank (iPRB), Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, South Korea.
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Tee MZ, Lee SC, Er YX, Yap NJ, Ngui R, Easton AV, Siow VWY, Ng KS, Boey CCM, Chua KH, Cadwell K, Loke P, Lim YAL. Efficacy of triple dose albendazole treatment for soil-transmitted helminth infections. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0272821. [PMID: 35960935 PMCID: PMC9374461 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0272821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
In Malaysia, soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections still persist among indigenous communities. In the past, local studies have focused mostly on epidemiologic aspects of STH infections with a scarcity of information on the efficacy of deworming treatment. The present study consisted of 2 phases: a cross-sectional phase on current epidemiological status and risk factors of STH infections and a longitudinal study over 6 weeks on triple dose albendazole efficacy against STH infections. A total of 253 participants were recruited at baseline and a pre-tested questionnaire was administered to obtain information on socio-demographics, environmental and behavioural risk factors. Stool samples were evaluated using a modified Kato-Katz technique. Cure rate (CR) and egg reduction rate (ERR) were assessed at 3 weeks following a 3-day course of 400mg albendazole treatment and infection status were observed again at 6 weeks. Baseline positivity of trichuriasis, ascariasis and hookworm infections were 56.1%, 11.9% and 20.2%, respectively. Multivariate analysis showed age below 18 years old (P = 0.004), without latrine in house (P = 0.042) and indiscriminate defecation (P = 0.032) were associated with STH infections. In the longitudinal study (N = 89), CR for trichuriasis was 64.6%, while CR of 100% was observed for both ascariasis and hookworm. ERR was above 90% for all three STH species. A rapid increased of Trichuris trichiura egg output was observed at 6 weeks. In conclusion, STH infections are highly prevalent among indigenous communities. Children and teenagers, poor sanitation and hygiene behaviour were determinants for STH infections. Triple dose albendazole is found to be efficacious against Ascaris lumbricoides and hookworm infections but has moderate curative effect with high ERR against T. trichiura. Although triple dose albendazole regimen has logistic challenges and may not be a routine option, consideration of this treatment regime may still be necessary in selective communities to reduce high intensity of T. trichiura infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mian Zi Tee
- Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Soo Ching Lee
- Type 2 Immunity Section, Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States of America
| | - Yi Xian Er
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Nan Jiun Yap
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Romano Ngui
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Alice V. Easton
- Department of Microbiology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Vinnie Wei Yin Siow
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Kee Seong Ng
- Department of Gastroenterology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | | | - Kek Heng Chua
- Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Ken Cadwell
- Department of Microbiology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States of America
- Kimmel Center for Biology and Medicine at the Skirball Institute, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States of America
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, New York University Langone Health, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - P’ng Loke
- Type 2 Immunity Section, Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States of America
- * E-mail: (YALL); (PL)
| | - Yvonne Ai Lian Lim
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- * E-mail: (YALL); (PL)
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Nasim N, El-Zein A, Thomas J. A review of rural and peri-urban sanitation infrastructure in South-East Asia and the Western Pacific: Highlighting regional inequalities and limited data. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2022; 244:113992. [PMID: 35752101 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2022.113992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 05/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Rural and peri-urban communities in developing countries rely on sanitation systems which are often unsafely managed. One of the major barriers to assess safely managed sanitation is a lack of data about the existing sanitation infrastructure and levels of containment safety. The aim was to review rural and peri-urban on-site sanitation studies in order to understand different infrastructure types, associated management practices and any impacts on human health. The scope was limited to South-East Asia and Western Pacific regions in order to better identify regional inequalities. Among the 155 reviewed articles, 73 studies (47%) linked sanitation infrastructure to poor human health. Nearly all articles reported latrine ownership (n = 149, 96%) while sanitation infrastructure types were covered less frequently (n = 104, 67%). In particular, there was a lack of published literature describing back-end characteristics (dimension and materials) (n = 12, 8%) and/or management practices (n = 4, 3%). This stems from a limited application of research methodologies that characterise sanitation infrastructure and faecal sludge management (containment, emptying and on-site treatment). Inequality between regions was prevalent with three quarters of the studies on latrine back-end infrastructure from Bangladesh and India in South-East Asia. A strategic research approach is needed to address the current knowledge gaps regarding sanitation infrastructure and safe faecal sludge management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nabeela Nasim
- School of Civil Engineering, The University of Sydney, Australia.
| | - Abbas El-Zein
- School of Civil Engineering, The University of Sydney, Australia.
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Agustina KK, Wirawan IMA, Sudarmaja IM, Subrata M, Dharmawan NS. The first report on the prevalence of soil-transmitted helminth infections and associated risk factors among traditional pig farmers in Bali Province, Indonesia. Vet World 2022; 15:1154-1162. [PMID: 35765496 PMCID: PMC9210853 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2022.1154-1162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim: Pigs are the main livestock commodity in Bali Province, Indonesia, where traditional farming practices are widely used. Traditional pig farmers are often closely associated with poverty and a perceived lack of knowledge regarding health and hygiene. Data on soil-transmitted helminthiasis (STH) and risk factors associated with STH worm infection among traditional pig farmers in Bali were previously unavailable. This study aimed to analyze the prevalence and risk factors for STH infections among traditional pig farmers in Bali Province, Indonesia. Materials and Methods: This study involved the fecal examination of 238 traditional pig farmers from all areas of Bali Province in Indonesia. In addition, several pig feces samples were combined into one pooled sample belonging to each farm. All fresh fecal samples were stored in a 5% formaldehyde solution before being analyzed using concentration flotation techniques. Subsequently, risk factors were determined through an interview and a questionnaire. The odds ratio (OR) and Chi-square tests were used to determine the risk factors associated with STH infections. Results: The result showed that there was a high prevalence of STH infections among traditional pig farmers and pig farms in Bali, with rates of 21.8% and 76.5%, respectively. This could be due to risk factors, such as personal hygiene (OR: 5.756; confidence interval [CI]: 2.96-11.193; p=0.00), sanitation (OR: 1.914; CI: 1.024-3.576; p=0.042), education level (OR: 7.579; CI: 2.621-21.915; p=0.00), household income (OR: 2.447; CI: 1.122-5.338; p=0.025), and occupation (OR: 2.95; CI: 1.356-6.415; p=0.006). Conclusion: The infections seen in farmers were distributed among hookworm, Ascaris spp., and Trichuris spp., at 15.1%, 9.2%, and 4.2%, respectively. The risk factors associated with infections of STH and Ascaris spp. were personal hygiene, home sanitation, education level, household income, and having a primary occupation as a traditional pig farmer. In contrast, personal hygiene, education level, and primary occupation were the only risk factors for hookworm infection, while personal hygiene and home sanitation were the risk factors associated with Trichuris spp. infection. The limitation of this study was that the number of samples was relatively small due to the difficulty of obtaining stool samples from traditional pig farmers, with many individuals refusing to provide their stool for inspection. We suggest that future research focus on identifying the species of worms that infect traditional pig farmers and to better identify the zoonotic link of STH transmission from pigs to humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kadek Karang Agustina
- Department of Veterinary Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Udayana University, Denpasar 80225, Bali, Indonesia; Post-Graduation Program, Faculty of Medicine, Udayana University, Denpasar 80225, Bali, Indonesia
| | - I. Made Ady Wirawan
- Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Udayana University, Denpasar 80225, Bali, Indonesia
| | - I. Made Sudarmaja
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Udayana University, Denpasar 80225, Bali, Indonesia
| | - Made Subrata
- Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Udayana University, Denpasar 80225, Bali, Indonesia
| | - Nyoman Sadra Dharmawan
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Udayana University, Denpasar 80225, Bali, Indonesia
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Heo CC, Rafiz AR, Ngui R. A Case of Zoonotic Ancylostoma ceylanicum Infection in a Suburban Area of Selangor, Malaysia. Acta Parasitol 2022; 67:564-568. [PMID: 34617193 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-021-00478-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The animal hookworm, Ancylostoma ceylanicum, is a dominant hookworm species of dogs and cats. However, it has increasingly been found infecting humans in Southeast Asia. PURPOSE We report an autochthonous case of A. ceylanicum in a suburban area of Selangor, Malaysia. A 66-year-old Indian lady who is an avid gardener presented with chronic diarrhea of 4 months' duration. METHODS The patient was examined clinically and colonoscopy was performed. Adult parasites obtained via colonoscopy were subjected to microscopy and molecular investigations. RESULTS Clinical examinations were unremarkable, and blood investigation revealed normochromic normocytic anemia. Stool occult blood was positive but negative for ova, cyst and adult parasites. Colonoscopy performed showed multiple diverticulae and worm infestation from the terminal ileum to sigmoid colon. Morphological examination on the adult worms showed the specific characteristics of Ancylostoma species. Molecular investigations further confirmed the nematode as Ancylostoma ceylanicum. She was treated with albendazole 400 mg daily for 3 days with symptomatic improvements sustained 3 months later. It is suspected that the patient had ingested or contacted soil contaminated with filariform larvae while gardening. CONCLUSION Information on the A. ceylanicum infection in humans, especially in urban and suburban areas, is limited, necessitating further epidemiological and clinical studies.
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Feng Y, Yu K, Chen H, Zhang X, Lu Q, Wang X, Zhang X, Yao L, Ruan W. Soil-transmitted helminths, intestinal protozoa and Clonorchis sinensis infections in southeast China. BMC Infect Dis 2021; 21:1195. [PMID: 34837987 PMCID: PMC8626871 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-021-06879-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Extensive parasitic diseases epidemiology in Zhejiang province has not been carried out since the second national survey in 2004. Therefore, dynamics in prevalence and infection pattern of the major intestinal parasites should be explored. METHODS The distribution of three parasites including soil-transmitted helminths (STH), intestinal protozoa and C. sinensis in Zhejiang from 2014 to 2015 were explored. Kato-Katz technique was used for STH and C. sinensis detection, whereas transparent adhesive paper anal swab was used for pinworm detection, and iodine smear was used for protozoa detection. A questionnaire survey on alimentary habits and sanitary behaviors was conducted in half of the studied counties. RESULTS This study recruited 23,552 participants: 19,935 from rural and 3617 from urban area. Overall prevalence of intestinal helminth infections was 1.80%. In this study, seven helminth species were identified including A. duodenale, N. americanus, Trichuris trichiura, Ascaris lumbricoides, C. sinensis, Fasciolopsis buski and pinworm. The average prevalence of STH infection was 1.71%: 1.94% in rural and 0.44% in urban area. Hookworm was the most prevalent infection at 1.58%: 1.79% in rural and 0.44% in urban area. Prevalence varied considerably in the studied counties. Prevalence was highest in Yongkang county at 10.25%. Only 2.79% of children from rural area were infected with pinworm. A proportion of 0.40% of rural participants were infected with protozoa, whereas Endolimax nana was the most prevalent at 0.23%. C. sinensis showed infection only in one man. Awareness on C. sinensis was 24.47% in rural and 45.96% in urban area, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Prevalence of STH and protozoa infections declined considerably whereas C. sinensis infections remained few in Zhejiang province compared with the prevalence reported in previous large scale surveys (19.56% for national STH infection in 2004, 18.66% and 4.57% for provincial STH and protozoa infection, respectively in 1999). The findings of this study showed that hookworm, mainly N. americanus remained a parasitic threat to population health, mainly in the central and western Zhejiang. Therefore, more health education regarding fertilization and farming habits is necessary in rural areas. The awareness concerning hookworm infection should be reinforced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Feng
- Department of Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, Zhejiang Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Hangzhou, 310051, China
| | - Kegen Yu
- Department of Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, Zhejiang Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Hangzhou, 310051, China
| | - Hualiang Chen
- Department of Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, Zhejiang Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Hangzhou, 310051, China
| | - Xuan Zhang
- Department of Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, Zhejiang Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Hangzhou, 310051, China
| | - Qiaoyi Lu
- Department of Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, Zhejiang Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Hangzhou, 310051, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Wang
- Department of Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, Zhejiang Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Hangzhou, 310051, China
| | - Xueying Zhang
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, NewYork, 10029, USA
| | - Linong Yao
- Department of Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, Zhejiang Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Hangzhou, 310051, China.
| | - Wei Ruan
- Department of Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, Zhejiang Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Hangzhou, 310051, China.
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Mohd-Shaharuddin N, Lim YAL, Ngui R, Nathan S. Expression of Ascaris lumbricoides putative virulence-associated genes when infecting a human host. Parasit Vectors 2021; 14:176. [PMID: 33757548 PMCID: PMC7985925 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-021-04680-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ascaris lumbricoides is the most common causative agent of soil-transmitted helminth infections worldwide, with an estimated 450 million people infected with this nematode globally. It is suggested that helminths are capable of evading and manipulating the host immune system through the release of a spectrum of worm proteins which underpins their long-term survival in the host. We hypothesise that the worm overexpresses these proteins when infecting adults compared to children to cirvumvent the more robust defence mechanisms of adults. However, little is known about the parasite's genes and encoded proteins involved during A. lumbricoides infection. Hence, this study was conducted to assess the expression profile of putative virulence-associated genes during an active infection of adults and children. METHODS In this study, quantitative PCR was performed to evaluate the expression profile of putative virulence-associated genes in A. lumbricoides isolated from infected children and adults. The study was initiated by collecting adult worms expelled from adults and children following anthelminthic treatment. High-quality RNA was successfully extracted from each of six adult worms expelled by three adults and three children, respectively. Eleven putative homologues of helminth virulence-associated genes reported in previous studies were selected, primers were designed and specific amplicons of A. lumbricoides genes were noted. The expression profiles of these putative virulence-associated genes in A. lumbricoides from infected adults were compared to those in A. lumbricoides from infected children. RESULTS The putative virulence-associated genes VENOM, CADHERIN and PEBP were significantly upregulated at 166-fold, 13-fold and fivefold, respectively, in adults compared to children. Conversely, the transcription of ABA-1 (fourfold), CATH-L (threefold) and INTEGRIN (twofold) was significantly suppressed in A. lumbricoides from infected adults. CONCLUSIONS On the basis of the expression profile of the putative virulence-associated genes, we propose that the encoded proteins have potential roles in evasion mechanisms, which could guide the development of therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yvonne Ai Lian Lim
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Romano Ngui
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Sheila Nathan
- Department of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia.
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12
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Hassan NA, Thodsapol A, Lim YAL, Wan Sulaiman WY, Sidi Omar SFN, Umsakul K, Ngui R. Copro-molecular identification of intestinal nematode infections in a rural community in East Malaysia. Parasitol Int 2020; 80:102237. [PMID: 33144195 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2020.102237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2020] [Revised: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections are the most common intestinal parasitic infections of medical importance in humans. The infections are widely distributed throughout tropical and subtropical countries, particularly among disadvantaged and underprivileged communities. In Malaysia, STH infections is highly prevalent, especially among the indigenous groups. However, species identification through molecular studies is still lacking. Using molecular techniques, this study was conducted to identify STH species that infect humans. Faecal samples were collected from three Iban tribal longhouses in the rural area of Sarikei Division, Sarawak. Positive faecal samples by microscopy were subjected to PCR and sequenced for species identification. Based on the microscopy examination, the most prevalent STH infection was Ascaris, followed by hookworm and Trichuris. All microscopy-positive samples were then PCR-amplified. The amplicons were sequenced, aligned, and compared with other sequences in the GenBank database. The results showed that Ascaris lumbricoides was the predominant STH species, followed by Trichuris trichiura, Ancylostoma duodenale, and Necator americanus. Our findings were contradictory to past studies, as we showed that A. duodenale was more abundant than N. americanus. Socioeconomic improvement and health education programs should be included in the management and prevention of public health strategies against STH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nur-Amirah Hassan
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Autchariya Thodsapol
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Prince of Songkla University, 90112, Hat Yai, Thailand
| | - Yvonne Ai Lian Lim
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Wan Yusoff Wan Sulaiman
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | | | - Kamontam Umsakul
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Prince of Songkla University, 90112, Hat Yai, Thailand
| | - Romano Ngui
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
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13
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Wong LW, Ong KS, Khoo JR, Goh CBS, Hor JW, Lee SM. Human intestinal parasitic infection: a narrative review on global prevalence and epidemiological insights on preventive, therapeutic and diagnostic strategies for future perspectives. Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2020; 14:1093-1105. [PMID: 32755242 DOI: 10.1080/17474124.2020.1806711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Intestinal parasitic infection (IPI) is a global health concern among socioeconomically deprived communities in many developing countries. Many preventative strategies have been deployed to control IPI, however, there is a lack in standards on the techniques used to diagnose and monitor the prevalence of IPI. AREAS COVERED The present article will review the diseases associated with IPI and discuss the current IPI control strategies such as the water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) interventions, community-led total sanitation (CLTS) approach, and regular anthelminthic treatments. For the first time, this review will also evaluate all currently practised diagnostic techniques for the detection of intestinal parasites and provide insights on future IPI control strategies. EXPERT OPINION Advanced and improved diagnostic methods such as qPCR coupled with a high-resolution melting curve, aptamers, biosensors, and detection of extracellular vesicles can be used for detection of IPI. Vaccination against intestinal parasites can be made available to increase antibodies to interfere with the blood-feeding process by the parasites, which subsequently reduces the reproductive rates of the parasites. These methods collectively can serve as future management strategies for intestinal parasitic infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Wen Wong
- School of Science, Monash University Malaysia , Bandar Sunway, Malaysia
| | - Kuan Shion Ong
- School of Science, Monash University Malaysia , Bandar Sunway, Malaysia.,Tropical Medicine and Biology Multidisciplinary Platform, Monash University Malaysia , Bandar Sunway, Malaysia
| | - Jun Rong Khoo
- School of Science, Monash University Malaysia , Bandar Sunway, Malaysia
| | - Calvin Bok Sun Goh
- School of Science, Monash University Malaysia , Bandar Sunway, Malaysia.,Tropical Medicine and Biology Multidisciplinary Platform, Monash University Malaysia , Bandar Sunway, Malaysia
| | - Jia Wei Hor
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya , Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Sui Mae Lee
- School of Science, Monash University Malaysia , Bandar Sunway, Malaysia.,Tropical Medicine and Biology Multidisciplinary Platform, Monash University Malaysia , Bandar Sunway, Malaysia
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14
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Kridaningsih TN, Sukmana DJ, Mufidah H, Diptyanusa A, Kusumasari RA, Burdam FH, Kenangalem E, Poespoprodjo JR, Fuad A, Mahendradhata Y, Supargiyono S, Utzinger J, Becker SL, Murhandarwati EEH. Epidemiology and risk factors of Strongyloides stercoralis infection in Papua, Indonesia: a molecular diagnostic study. Acta Trop 2020; 209:105575. [PMID: 32505594 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2020.105575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2020] [Revised: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Strongyloides stercoralis is a parasitic worm that is of considerable clinical relevance. Indeed, it may persist asymptomatically for many years, but can lead to potentially fatal dissemination when the host's immune status is impaired. As commonly employed stool microscopy techniques (e.g. Kato-Katz thick smear) fail to detect S. stercoralis, the epidemiology is poorly understood. In 2013, we conducted a cross-sectional household survey in the district of Mimika in Papua, Indonesia. A total of 331 individuals, aged 1 month to 44 years, had a single stool sample subjected to real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for S. stercoralis diagnosis. The prevalence of S. stercoralis infection was 32.0% (106/331 individuals); higher than any of the three main soil-transmitted helminths (Ascaris lumbricoides, 23.9%; Trichuris trichiura, 18.4%; and hookworm, 17.2%). Amongst the S. stercoralis-infected individuals, 73.6% were concurrently infected with another helminth, with hookworm being the most frequent co-infection (27.4%). Fourteen percent of the S. stercoralis infections had low cycle threshold values on real-time PCR, which may indicate a higher infection intensity. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that age ≥5 years (adjusted odds ratio (OR) 5.8, 95% confidence interval (CI): 3.1-10.8) was significantly associated with S. stercoralis infection. There is a need for in-depth clinical and diagnostic studies to elucidate the public health impact of S. stercoralis infection in Indonesia.
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15
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Prevalence of hookworm infection and associated factors among pregnant women attending antenatal care at governmental health centers in DEMBECHA district, north West Ethiopia, 2017. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2020; 20:457. [PMID: 32787866 PMCID: PMC7424972 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-020-03134-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2019] [Accepted: 07/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hookworm infection is a major public health problem in developing countries. The main way people become infected with hookworm's larva is through direct skin contact with contaminated soil when walking on barefoot. It is one of a major cause of anemia in pregnant women. The objective was to assess the prevalence and associated factors of hookworm infection among pregnant women who attended antenatal care at governmental health centers in Dembecha district, Ethiopia, 2017. METHODS Institutional based cross sectional study was conducted on 306 pregnant women. Study participants were selected by systematic random sampling technique from February 1 to March 30, 2017. Data collectors and supervisors were trained. Semi-structured Amharic version questionnaire was used to collect data using face to face interview technique and stool sample was examined. Collected data were entered by using Epi data version 3.1 and exported to SPSS. The exported data was analyzed and presented by using descriptive summary statistics and tables. After bivariate logistic regression analysis, all variables with a p-value < 0.25 were entered into multivariate logistic regression and p value < 0.05 considered as significantly associated with the outcome variable. RESULTS Prevalence of hookworm infection was 32.0%. There was a positive association of hookworm infection with living in single room [AOR =2.8; 95% CI; 1.32-5.81], living with domestic animals [AOR = 3.4; 95% CI; 1.35-8.76], monthly income ≤1500 Ethiopian birr [AOR = 3.7; 95% CI; 1.76-7.64], unavailability of latrine [AOR = 2.2; 95% CI; 1.03-4.55], habit of walking on barefoot [AOR = 4.3; 95% CI; 2.17-8.48] and not habit of hand washing before meal [AOR = 3.4; 95 CI; 1.14-10.12]. CONCLUSION This study showed high prevalence of hookworm infection among pregnant women in the study area. Living in single room, living with domestic animals, monthly income ≤1500 Ethiopian birr, unavailability of latrine, habit of walking on barefoot and not habit of hand washing before meal had positive association with hookworm infection. Public health measure should focus on availability latrine and separation of humans and domestic animals room to decrease prevalence of hookworm infection among pregnant women.
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16
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Nasr NA, Al-Mekhlafi HM, Lim YAL, Elyana FN, Sady H, Atroosh WM, Dawaki S, Al-Delaimy AK, Al-Areeqi MA, Wehaish AA, Anuar TS, Mahmud R. A holistic approach is needed to control the perpetual burden of soil-transmitted helminth infections among indigenous schoolchildren in Malaysia. Pathog Glob Health 2020; 114:145-159. [PMID: 32249689 DOI: 10.1080/20477724.2020.1747855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
Abstract
A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 1,142 Orang Ali schoolchildren in six states of Peninsular Malaysia to investigate the current prevalence and risk factors of STH infections. Faecal samples were examined using direct smear, formalin-ether sedimentation, Kato-Katz, and Harada-Mori methods. A pre-tested questionnaire was used to collect information on the demographic, socioeconomic, personal hygiene, and health status of the participants. Overall, 70.1% (95% CI = 67.4, 72.7) of the participants were infected with at least one of the STH species. The prevalence of Ascaris lumbricoides, Trichuris trichiura, and hookworm infections was 63.1%, 61.8% and 11.5%, respectively. Moderate-to-heavy STH infections accounted for 61.3% of the total infections. Univariate and logistic regression analyses revealed different sets of risk factors, with age (> 10 years) being the significant risk factor of all three STH species. Moreover, other species-specific risk factors were identified including being a member of the Senoi tribe, family size (≥ 7 members), school size (150-250 pupils), maternal unemployment, unimproved source of drinking water, lacking improved toilet in the house, inadequate WASH facilities at school, not washing hands before eating, and not washing fruits before eating; presence of domestic animals, and not wearing shoes when outside. The high prevalence of STH infections found in the study population exceeds the WHO policy intervention threshold (20% prevalence). Thus, an innovative holistic approach should be adopted to control STH infections among these children as part of the efforts to improve the quality of life of the entire Orang Asli population. .
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Affiliation(s)
- Nabil A Nasr
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Hesham M Al-Mekhlafi
- Medical Research Centre, Jazan University, Jazan, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.,Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sana'a University, Sana'a, Yemen
| | - Yvonne A L Lim
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Fatin Nur Elyana
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Hany Sady
- Department of Medical Laboratories, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Hodeidah University, Hodeidah, Yemen
| | - Wahib M Atroosh
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.,Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Aden, Aden, Yemen
| | - Salwa Dawaki
- School of Health Technology, Nassarawa, Kano, Nigeria
| | - Ahmed K Al-Delaimy
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Anbar, Ramadi, Iraq
| | - Mona A Al-Areeqi
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.,Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sana'a University, Sana'a, Yemen
| | - Abkar A Wehaish
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Tengku Shahrul Anuar
- Centre of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Selangor, Malaysia.,Integrative Pharmacogenomics Institute, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Rohela Mahmud
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Ngui R, Hassan NA, Nordin NMS, Mohd-Shaharuddin N, Chang LY, Teh CSJ, Chua KH, Kee BP, Hoe SZ, Lim YAL. Copro-molecular study of Entamoeba infection among the indigenous community in Malaysia: A first report on the species-specific prevalence of Entamoeba in dogs. Acta Trop 2020; 204:105334. [PMID: 31926914 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2020.105334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2019] [Revised: 12/31/2019] [Accepted: 01/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Entamoeba is a free-living protozoan parasitic species that infect a variety of hosts. In humans, Entamoeba histolytica is the causative agent of amoebiasis. Entamoeba species has also been reported in dogs. However, little is known about the molecular epidemiology and the specific species of this parasite in dogs globally, including Malaysia. As dogs are important companion animals for the indigenous community, and close contact with dogs is part of the natural living conditions for this community, this study aims to determine the prevalence and molecular epidemiology of Entamoeba species in human and dogs in Malaysia. METHOD The presence of Entamoeba species was examined in 504 fresh fecal samples, collected randomly from 411 humans and 93 dogs using microscopy and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplifying 16 s ribosomal RNA (rRNA). Data was analyzed using appropriate statistical analysis. RESULTS The microscopy data showed an overall occurrence of Entamoeba species of 26.3% (108/411) and 36.6% (34/93) in humans and dogs respectively. In humans, the most common species was a single infection of E. dispar (26.5%; 13/49), followed by E. histolytica and E. moshkovskii, (20.4% for each species respectively). Double infection of E. dispar + E. moshkovskii was detected at 10.2%, followed by E. dispar + E. histolytica (8.2%) and E. moshkovskii and E. histolytica (6.1%). 8.2% of the samples had triple infection with all three species. In animals, E. moshkovskii (46.7%) was the most common species detected, followed by E. histolytica, and E. dispar, at 20.0% and 13.3% respectively. Double infection with E. moshkovskii + E. histolytica and a triple infection were found in 2 samples (13.3%) and 1 (6.7%) sample respectively. Risk factor analysis showed that members of the community who used untreated water were more prone to be infected with Entamoeba. CONCLUSION This study provides information on the species-specific occurrence of Entamoeba infection, the potential risk factors and their zoonotic potential to humans. This is the first report to describe the molecular occurrence of Entamoeba species in dogs in Malaysia. The presence of pathogenic Entamoeba species implies that dogs could be a reservoir or mechanical host for human amoebiasis. Further studies need to be conducted to better understand the transmission dynamics and public health significance of Entamoeba species in human and animal hosts.
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Wong LP, Alias H, Choy SH, Goh XT, Lee SC, Lim YAL, Kee BP, Chua KH, Kamaruzaman A, Zheng Z, Zhao Q, Wu T. The study of seroprevalence of hepatitis E virus and an investigation into the lifestyle behaviours of the aborigines in Malaysia. Zoonoses Public Health 2020; 67:263-270. [PMID: 31927794 DOI: 10.1111/zph.12681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2019] [Revised: 11/27/2019] [Accepted: 12/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Malaysia is a non-endemic country for hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection. However, seroprevalence as high as 50% among samples of aboriginal people were reported over two decades ago. A total of 207 samples collected from seven aboriginal villages in rural settlements across two states in Malaysia were analysed for anti-HEV IgG and IgM by an enzyme-linked immunoassay. Following the detection of anti-HEV seroprevalence, we organized health outreach to inform and educate the community. Qualitative interviews were conducted with individuals tested positive for anti-HEV antibodies. Data derived from interviews and observations were used to investigate possible lifestyle behaviours associated with HEV infection. Anti-HEV IgG was detected in six samples (5.9%) from the village of Dusun Kubur. Qualitative inquiry and observation study revealed poor dietary and household hygiene, contaminated food and water, contact with animal faeces, unsanitary and domestic waste disposal, and wildlife reservoirs could be the contributing factors for transmission and acquisition of HEV infection. Investigation during health outreach is important to provide insights for future empirical research and implementation for improvement of lifestyle behaviours among the aborigines. Managing the risk of HEV infection in the aborigines may reduce the risk of HEV transmission to the local communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Ping Wong
- Centre for Epidemiology and Evidence-Based Practice, Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Haridah Alias
- Centre for Epidemiology and Evidence-Based Practice, Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Seow Huey Choy
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Xiang Ting Goh
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Soo Ching Lee
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Yvonne Ai Lian Lim
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Boon Pin Kee
- Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Kek Heng Chua
- Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Adeeba Kamaruzaman
- Dean's Office, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Zizheng Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, National Institute of Diagnostics and Vaccine Development in Infectious Diseases, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Qinjian Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, National Institute of Diagnostics and Vaccine Development in Infectious Diseases, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Ting Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, National Institute of Diagnostics and Vaccine Development in Infectious Diseases, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
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Pasaribu AP, Alam A, Sembiring K, Pasaribu S, Setiabudi D. Prevalence and risk factors of soil-transmitted helminthiasis among school children living in an agricultural area of North Sumatera, Indonesia. BMC Public Health 2019; 19:1066. [PMID: 31391023 PMCID: PMC6686497 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-019-7397-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2018] [Accepted: 07/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Soil-transmitted helminth infection (STH) is one of the neglected tropical disease that affects approximately 2 billion people globally. School children represent the age group that is most commonly infected with STHs, resulting in poor school performance, impaired cognitive function, and many other detrimental effects. The transmission of STH is determined by many factors, such as hygiene and sanitation. Understanding the factors that influence disease transmission in a particular area is key to effective STH control. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of STH in North Sumatera and to identify the associated risk factors among school children. METHODS A cross-sectional study was carried out among primary school children in Suka village, Tigapanah subdistrict. Stool samples were processed using a single Kato-Katz method. The potential risk factors analyzed were parent education and occupation, hand washing habits, latrine usage, footwear usage and contact with soil. The Chi-square test was performed to identify an association between risk factors and parasitological results. Logistic regression analysis was used to measure the strength of association. RESULTS We enrolled 468 school children between 6 and 12 years of age. Among those children, 268 children (57.24%) were positive for one or more STH infections. Approximately 62.39% of children played with soil/dirt every day, and only 50% regularly washed their hands after activities. Most of the children wore shoes/slippers when going outside (87.82%) and used a latrine for defecation (85.04%). Playing with soil/dirt have been shown to increase the risk of STH infections 7.53 times, while hand washing habits and latrine usage decreased the risk of STH infections 0.16 times each. CONCLUSION The prevalence of STH infection in school children in Suka village, Tigapanah subdistrict is still high. Playing with soil/dirt increased the risk of infection, while hand washing habits and latrine usage decreased the risk of infection. The combined strategies of improving the personal hygiene of children and biannual deworming can reduce the risk of STH infection in school children in Suka village, Tigapanah subdistrict.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayodhia Pitaloka Pasaribu
- Department of Child Health, Medical Faculty, Universitas Sumatera Utara, North Sumatera, Medan, Indonesia.
| | - Anggraini Alam
- Department of Child Health, Medical Faculty, Universitas Padjajaran, Bandung, West Java, Indonesia
| | - Krisnarta Sembiring
- Department of Child Health, Medical Faculty, Universitas Sumatera Utara, North Sumatera, Medan, Indonesia
| | - Syahril Pasaribu
- Department of Child Health, Medical Faculty, Universitas Sumatera Utara, North Sumatera, Medan, Indonesia
| | - Djatnika Setiabudi
- Department of Child Health, Medical Faculty, Universitas Padjajaran, Bandung, West Java, Indonesia
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Muslim A, Mohd Sofian S, Shaari SA, Hoh BP, Lim YAL. Prevalence, intensity and associated risk factors of soil transmitted helminth infections: A comparison between Negritos (indigenous) in inland jungle and those in resettlement at town peripheries. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2019; 13:e0007331. [PMID: 31009476 PMCID: PMC6497322 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0007331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2018] [Revised: 05/02/2019] [Accepted: 03/25/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Formerly known as the Malaysian hunter gatherers, the Negrito Orang Asli (OA) were heavily dependent on the forest for sustenance and early studies indicated high prevalence of intestinal parasitism. Initiation of a redevelopment program in the 1970s aimed to demarginalize the OA was expected to reduce soil transmitted helminth (STH) infections. Gradually, the OA were relocated to new resettlement areas at the peripheries. The aim of this study was to compare STH infections between Negritos who are still living in the inland jungle with those living in resettlements. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS A total of 416 Negrito participants were grouped into two categories of communities based on location; Inland Jungle Villages (IJV); and Resettlement Plan Scheme (RPS). Iodine wet mount, formalin-ether sedimentation, modified Trichrome and modified Ziehl-Neelsen staining and Kato-Katz methods were performed on stool samples. A questionnaire was used to collect information regarding demographic, socioeconomic, environmental and hygiene behaviors. Prevalence of STH was significantly higher in IJV (91.3%) versus RPS (83.1%) (P = 0.02). However, the percentage of individuals with severe intensity of Trichuris trichiura infections was significantly higher in the RPS (17.2%) compared to IJV (6.5%) (P = 0.01). Severe Ascaris lumbricoides infection was observed at 20.0% amongst RPS Negritos and 15.0% amongst IJV (P = 0.41). Whilst for hookworm infection, both prevalence and individuals with moderate to severe infections were higher in the IJV (26.2%, 41.0%) versus RPS (18.7%, 24.0%) (P values = 0.08, 0.09), accordingly. The prevalence other intestinal parasitic infections (e.g. Entamoeba sp., Blastocystis and flukes) was also higher in IJV versus RPS. Apart from poor hygienic behaviors as significant risk factors in both communities, low socio-economic status was highly associated with STH infections in RPS (P<0.001) but not significantly associated in IJV. CONCLUSIONS The findings showed that ex situ development plan by RPS has not profoundly contributed to the STH reduction among the OA. Conversely, burden rate of T. trichiura infections increased due to their extreme poverty and poor hygienic behaviors. Here, we are suggesting biannual mass albendazole intervention (triple dose regimens in RPS, but a single dose in IJV) and community empowerment to both communities. For a long-term and better uptake, these strategies must be done together with the community input and participation, respecting their traditional customs and accompanied by recruitment of more OA people in the health-care taskforce.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azdayanti Muslim
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA (Sungai Buloh Campus) Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Sakinah Mohd Sofian
- Institute of Medical Molecular Biotechnology (IMMB), Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA (Sungai Buloh Campus), Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Syahrul Azlin Shaari
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA (Sungai Buloh Campus) Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Boon-Peng Hoh
- Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, UCSI University Kuala Lumpur Campus, Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Yvonne Ai-Lian Lim
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Centre of Excellence for Research in AIDS (CERiA), University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Mohd-Shaharuddin N, Lim YAL, Hassan NA, Nathan S, Ngui R. Molecular characterization of Trichuris species isolated from humans, dogs and cats in a rural community in Peninsular Malaysia. Acta Trop 2019; 190:269-272. [PMID: 30500371 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2018.11.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2018] [Revised: 11/24/2018] [Accepted: 11/26/2018] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Trichuris trichiura (whipworm) are soil-transmitted helminths (STHs) that causing trichuriasis in human. Trichuris vulpis, a canine whipworm has also been reported occasionally in humans. However, an overlapping dimension in the morphology and due to limited external characters between both species may lead to the potential for misidentification. Although there has been an extensive study on the distribution of whipworm in both human and animal hosts, little is known about the molecular epidemiology of Trichuris species in both hosts. To investigate to characterize the whipworm species and to determine the genetic relationship between species infecting both humans and animals, we sequenced the small subunit ribosomal RNA (SSU rRNA) regions of Trichuris egg isolated from humans, dogs and cats in a rural community in Malaysia. A total of 524 fresh fecal samples were collected from humans and animals. The overall prevalence of Trichuris was 59.9% as determined by microscopy examination. The molecular analysis showed that 98.7% were identified as T. trichiura in the human fecal sample. Interestingly, 1.3% were identified as T. vulpis. As for animal fecal sample, 56.8% and 43.2% were identified as T. trichiura and T. vulpis, respectively. Phylogenetic and sequence analysis demonstrated that T. trichiura isolates were genetically distinct from T. vulpis isolates from both hosts. This finding implies that companion animals can be a reservoir and mechanical transmitter for T. trichiura infection in human and also highlighting the possible zoonotic potential of T. vulpis. This finding may also suggest that cross-transmission between humans and animal hosts in sympatric setting may be a source of infection in both hosts. More studies are needed to better understand the transmission dynamic and public health significance of Trichuris infection in both hosts.
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Vonaesch P, Tondeur L, Breurec S, Bata P, Nguyen LBL, Frank T, Farra A, Rafaï C, Giles-Vernick T, Gody JC, Gouandjika-Vasilache I, Sansonetti P, Vray M. Factors associated with stunting in healthy children aged 5 years and less living in Bangui (RCA). PLoS One 2017; 12:e0182363. [PMID: 28796794 PMCID: PMC5552116 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0182363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2017] [Accepted: 07/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Stunting remains a major public health concern worldwide. Although its global prevalence is slowly decreasing, the actual number of affected children is still rising in Sub-Saharan Africa. In the Central African Republic (CAR), about one third of all children below the age of five are stunted. Stunting is correlated with many long-term consequences, including poor cognitive development and a higher rate of morbidity and mortality, making stunting a major contributor to poverty. In CAR, little is known about the factors that contribute to stunting. This study aimed at analysing, in a cross-sectional study, the main factors associated with stunting in a group of 414 children recruited between December 2011 and November 2013, aged five years or less and living in Bangui. For all children, demographic, socio-economic and anthropometric data were recorded and asymptomatic enteropathogen carriage was assessed in stool samples using classical microbiological assays. The study group had a mean age of 14.2±10 months. Fifty-eight percent (292/414) were boys, and 36 percent (148/414) exhibited stunted growth. Of the stunted children, 51% (75/148) showed a moderate delay in linear growth for their age group [height-for-age z-score (HAZ) between -2 and -3 SD] while 49% (73/148) presented a severe delay (HAZ < -3). Factors significantly associated with stunting included gender (aOR: 1.67; 95% CI: 1.07; 2.62 for boys compared to girls) and age (aOR of 3.98 (95% CI: 2.45; 6.46) for toddlers and aOR 4.42 (95% CI: 2.36; 8.28) for children compared to infants). Most importantly, we identified being overweight [weight-for-height z-score (WHZ) > 2 SD; aOR: 3.21; 95% CI: 1.50; 6.90 of overweight compared to normal weight] as also being significantly associated with stunting. This is the first study showing that even in the poorest countries of the world there is an association of stunting with being overweight.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pascale Vonaesch
- Unité de Pathogénie Microbienne Moléculaire, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
- Unité d'épidémiologie et d'expertise des maladies émergentes, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Laura Tondeur
- Unité d'épidémiologie et d'expertise des maladies émergentes, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Sébastien Breurec
- Laboratoire de Microbiologie Clinique et Environnementale, Centre Hospitalo-Universitaire, Pointe-à-Pitre/Les Abymes, Guadeloupe, France
- Laboratoire de Bactériologie médicale, Institut Pasteur de Bangui, Bangui, République Centrafricaine
- Université des Antilles, Faculté de Médecine, Pointe-aà-Pitre, Guadeloupe, France
| | - Petula Bata
- Complexe Pédiatrique de Bangui, Bangui, République Centrafricaine
| | - Liem Binh Luong Nguyen
- Laboratoire de Bactériologie médicale, Institut Pasteur de Bangui, Bangui, République Centrafricaine
| | - Thierry Frank
- Laboratoire de Bactériologie médicale, Institut Pasteur de Bangui, Bangui, République Centrafricaine
| | - Alain Farra
- Laboratoire de Bactériologie médicale, Institut Pasteur de Bangui, Bangui, République Centrafricaine
| | - Clotaire Rafaï
- Laboratoire de Bactériologie médicale, Institut Pasteur de Bangui, Bangui, République Centrafricaine
| | - Tamara Giles-Vernick
- Unité d'épidémiologie et d'expertise des maladies émergentes, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | | | | | - Philippe Sansonetti
- Unité de Pathogénie Microbienne Moléculaire, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Muriel Vray
- Unité d'épidémiologie et d'expertise des maladies émergentes, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
- Unité d’épidémiologie des maladies infectieuses, Institut Pasteur de Dakar, Dakar, Sénégal
- * E-mail:
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Punsawad C, Phasuk N, Bunratsami S, Thongtup K, Siripakonuaong N, Nongnaul S. Prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection and associated risk factors among village health volunteers in rural communities of southern Thailand. BMC Public Health 2017; 17:564. [PMID: 28599633 PMCID: PMC5466724 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-017-4486-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2017] [Accepted: 06/01/2017] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Intestinal parasitic infections remain prevalent and constitute a public health problem in certain rural areas of Thailand. Village health volunteers (VHVs), who are members of a Thai healthcare alliance, function as key providers of health prevention measures, disease control, and health education and share national health promotion campaigns with community members. This study is aimed at evaluating the prevalence, intensity, and risk factors for intestinal parasitic infection in VHVs in order to design community awareness and health education campaigns for the target population. Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted between January to April 2016 among village health volunteers (VHVs) from four sub-districts of Nopphitam District, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, southern Thailand. Subjects for the study were selected using a simple random sampling method. Socio-demographic variables and risk factors were collected by a structured questionnaire. Stool specimens were collected and processed using direct wet mount and formol-ether concentration techniques to determine the presence of parasites and modified Kato-Katz thick smear to determine the intensity of infection. Results A total of 324 VHVs were enrolled. The overall prevalence of intestinal helminths was 9.3% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 6.3–13.0). The prevalence of hookworm, Strongyloides stercoralis, and Trichuris trichiura were 8.0% (95% CI: 5.3–11.5), 0.9% (95% CI: 0.2–2.7), and 0.3% (95% CI: 0–1.7), respectively. Mean intensity of hookworm infection was 1732 eggs per gram of stool. The prevalence was lower for protozoan infection than for helminth infection. Blastocystis hominis accounted for the highest percentage of intestinal protozoan infections 4.0% (95% CI: 2.2–6.8), followed by Giardia intestinalis 0.6% (95% CI: 0–2.2). No statistically significant difference was observed in the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection among sub-districts (p > 0.05). Having dogs at home was associated with soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infection in study participants (Crude prevalence ratio [CPR]: 2.3; 95% CI: 1.0–5.2). Conclusions This study is the first to describe the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection VHVs from southern Thailand. Hookworm infection is more prevalent than other types of STH infection. The development of community awareness campaigns and appropriate control measures should be considered to reduce the prevalence of hookworm infection, especially among VHVs who are the key persons providing health education to the community. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12889-017-4486-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuchard Punsawad
- School of Medicine, Walailak University, 222 Thasala District, Nakhon Si Thammarat, 80161, Thailand. .,Tropical Diseases and Parasitic Infectious Diseases Research Group, Walailak University, 222 Thasala District, Nakhon Si Thammarat, 80161, Thailand.
| | - Nonthapan Phasuk
- School of Medicine, Walailak University, 222 Thasala District, Nakhon Si Thammarat, 80161, Thailand.,Tropical Diseases and Parasitic Infectious Diseases Research Group, Walailak University, 222 Thasala District, Nakhon Si Thammarat, 80161, Thailand
| | - Suchirat Bunratsami
- School of Medicine, Walailak University, 222 Thasala District, Nakhon Si Thammarat, 80161, Thailand.,Tropical Diseases and Parasitic Infectious Diseases Research Group, Walailak University, 222 Thasala District, Nakhon Si Thammarat, 80161, Thailand
| | - Kanjana Thongtup
- School of Medicine, Walailak University, 222 Thasala District, Nakhon Si Thammarat, 80161, Thailand
| | - Niramon Siripakonuaong
- School of Medicine, Walailak University, 222 Thasala District, Nakhon Si Thammarat, 80161, Thailand.,Tropical Diseases and Parasitic Infectious Diseases Research Group, Walailak University, 222 Thasala District, Nakhon Si Thammarat, 80161, Thailand
| | - Somchok Nongnaul
- Noppitum Hospital, Noppitum District, Nakhon Si Thammarat, 80161, Thailand
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Rajoo Y, Ambu S, Lim YAL, Rajoo K, Tey SC, Lu CW, Ngui R. Neglected Intestinal Parasites, Malnutrition and Associated Key Factors: A Population Based Cross-Sectional Study among Indigenous Communities in Sarawak, Malaysia. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0170174. [PMID: 28095446 PMCID: PMC5240947 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0170174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2016] [Accepted: 12/30/2016] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) have been recognized as one of the most significant causes of illness among disadvantaged communities. Many studies have been conducted on the prevalence of IPIs in Malaysia. However, these studies mostly focused on the indigenous groups in Peninsular Malaysia. The present study was conducted to provide the current baseline data on prevalence of IPIs, anaemia, malnutrition and associated risk factors among the indigenous communities in Sarawak, situation at northwest Borneo island of Malaysia. A cross sectional study was conducted among the longhouses communities. Stool samples were obtained and examined for the presence of IPIs using microscopy technique. Haemoglobin measurement was done using a portable haemoglobin analyzer. Malnutrition (i.e., stunting, underweight and wasting) was assessed using the WHO Anthro software. Statistical analysis was carried out using SPSS software. A total of 341participants took part in this study. The overall prevalence of IPIs was 57.5%. Multivariate analysis indicated that the absence of toilets (OR = 1.6; 95% CI = 1.1-2.7; p = 0.002) and close contact with animals (OR = 1.8; 95% CI = 1.3-2.9; p = 0.027) as significant predictors for IPIs. The incidence of anaemia was 36.4%. The incidence of underweight, wasting and stunting were 22.2%, 5.6% and 35.4%, respectively. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that low level of parental education attainment (OR = 1.9; 95% CI = 1.2-3.0; p = 0.006) was identified as significant predictor for anaemia. The incidence of wasting was significantly associated with mild anaemia (OR = 1.2; 95% CI = 0.9-1.7; p = 0.024). Low household income was identified as significant predictor for stunting (OR = 2.1; 95% CI = 9.8-22.2; p = 0.001) and underweight (OR = 1.9; 95% CI = 5.6-18.7; p = 0.037), respectively. Essentially, the present study highlighted that intestinal parasitic infections, anaemia and malnutrition are still prevalent among rural indigenous community in Sarawak. Improvement of socioeconomic status, periodic mass deworming, iron supplementation and health education program should be included in the control and prevention of public health strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yamuna Rajoo
- International Medical University, Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Stephen Ambu
- International Medical University, Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Yvonne Ai Lian Lim
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- * E-mail: (RN); (YALL)
| | | | - Siew Chang Tey
- Hospital Sarikei, Jalan Rentap, Sarikei, Sarawak, Malaysia
| | - Chan Woon Lu
- Hospital Sarikei, Jalan Rentap, Sarikei, Sarawak, Malaysia
| | - Romano Ngui
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- * E-mail: (RN); (YALL)
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Chin YT, Lim YAL, Chong CW, Teh CSJ, Yap IKS, Lee SC, Tee MZ, Siow VWY, Chua KH. Prevalence and risk factors of intestinal parasitism among two indigenous sub-ethnic groups in Peninsular Malaysia. Infect Dis Poverty 2016; 5:77. [PMID: 27430215 PMCID: PMC4950084 DOI: 10.1186/s40249-016-0168-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2015] [Accepted: 07/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) among indigenous people have been widely documented in Malaysia, however, the prevalence of these infections remains high. In the past, most studies have focused on specific species of parasites but polyparasitism has received limited attention. In addition, epidemiology studies on indigenous people tend to consider them as a homogenous group, whereas in reality different sub-ethnic groups have different cultural and living practices. Variations in living habits such as personal hygiene practices may predispose different groups to different parasitic infections. To better understand prevalence and risk factors of intestinal parasitism among different sub-ethnic groups, the present study was conducted among two sub-ethnic groups of indigenous people (Temuan and Mah Meri) residing in Selangor state, Malaysia. Methods A cross-sectional study that focused on two distinct sub-ethnic groups was carried out from February to September 2014. Faecal samples were collected from 186 participants and examined using the formalin-ether sedimentation technique. A molecular approach was adopted to conduct a genetic characterisation of the parasites. Additionally, questionnaires were administered to obtain information on the demographics, socio-economic backgrounds and behavioural risks relating to the participants, as well as information about their environments. Statistical analyses (i.e. binary and multivariate logistic regression analyses) were performed to measure risk factors. Results For Temuan communities, trichuriasis (64.2 %) was the most common infection found, preceding hookworm infection (34 %), ascariasis (7.5 %), giardiasis (14.2 %) and amoebiasis (7.5 %). As for the Mah Meri communities, trichuriasis (77.5 %) prevailed over ascariasis (21.3 %), hookworm (15 %), giardiasis (7.5 %) and amoebiasis (3.8 %). Significant differences in proportions of trichuriasis, ascariasis and hookworm infections were observed between the Temuan and Mah Meri sub-ethnic groups. Polyparasitism was more common among the Temuan sub-ethnic group (41.5 %) compared to the Mah Meri sub-ethnic group (32.5 %), with the majority of participants harbouring two parasites concurrently (Temuan: 33 %, Mah Meri: 20 %). Trichuris trichiura and Ascaris lumbricoides co-infections were most prevalent (10 %) among the Mah Meri communities, while a co-infection of T. trichiura with hookworm (19.8 %) was most common among the Temuan communities. Multivariate analyses showed that being unemployed, having a large family and drinking unboiled water were found to be significantly associated with intestinal parasitism. Conclusion The present study highlights substantial polyparasitism and risk factors for infections in the Temuan and Mah Meri sub-ethnic groups. The high prevalence of IPIs among these two sub-ethnic groups indicates that parasitic infections are important health issues in these communities. Hence, it is imperative to implement sound intervention strategies such as periodic preventive chemotherapy coupled with health education in order to reduce and eradicate these infections. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s40249-016-0168-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuee Teng Chin
- Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Yvonne Ai Lian Lim
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Chun Wie Chong
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Pharmacy, International Medical University, 57000, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Cindy Shuan Ju Teh
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Ivan Kok Seng Yap
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Pharmacy, International Medical University, 57000, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Soo Ching Lee
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Mian Zi Tee
- Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Vinnie Wei Yin Siow
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Kek Heng Chua
- Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
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Ito A, Yanagida T, Nakao M. Recent advances and perspectives in molecular epidemiology of Taenia solium cysticercosis. INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2015; 40:357-367. [PMID: 26112071 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2015.06.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2015] [Revised: 06/19/2015] [Accepted: 06/20/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Cysticercosis caused by accidental ingestion of eggs of Taenia solium is spreading all over the world through globalization and is one of the most neglected, neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) or neglected zoonotic diseases (NZDs). In the present study, the reason why T. solium cysticercosis has been neglected is discussed at first, and followed with an overview on the most recent advances and perspectives in molecular approaches for epidemiology of T. solium taeniasis/cysticercosis, since although taeniasis does not constitute recognized zoonoses, transmission and complete development are dependent on human definitive hosts. Main topics are discussions on (1) the two, Asian and Afro/American, genotypes of T. solium, (2) comparative analysis of mitochondrial (haploid) and nuclear (diploid) genes, and (3) the presence of hybrids of these two genotypes which indicates out-crossing of two genotypes in hermaphrodite tapeworms in Madagascar. Additional topics are on (4) the usefulness of phylogeographic analyses to discuss where the infection was acquired from, and (5) miscellaneous unsolved topics around these genetic diversity of T. solium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akira Ito
- Department of Parasitology, Asahikawa Medical University, Midorigaoka Higashi 2-1-1-1, Asahikawa 078-8510, Japan.
| | - Tetsuya Yanagida
- Department of Parasitology, Asahikawa Medical University, Midorigaoka Higashi 2-1-1-1, Asahikawa 078-8510, Japan; Laboratory of Parasitology, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Yamaguchi University, 1677-1 Yoshida, Yamaguchi 753-8515, Japan.
| | - Minoru Nakao
- Department of Parasitology, Asahikawa Medical University, Midorigaoka Higashi 2-1-1-1, Asahikawa 078-8510, Japan.
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