Prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections among urban dwellers in southwest Ethiopia

Abstract

Abstract Background: Intestinal parasitic infections cause serious public health problem in Ethiopia. They are more prevalent in the poor segments of the population with low household income, poor handling of personal and environmental sanitation, overcrowding and limited access to clean water. Objective: The purpose of this study was to assess the magnitude and pattern of intestinal parasitism in urban communities of southwest Ethiopia. Methods: This community-based, cross-sectional study was undertaken in Jimma town from October 2004-January 2005. Study subjects were selected using systematic sampling method. Data were gathered through house to house survey using standardized questionnaire. Stool specimens were examined microscopically for the presence of parasite eggs, cysts and trophozoites using direct saline thin smear and formol-ether concentration methods. Results: Of the total, 754 (83%) had one or more intestinal parasitic infections. T. trichiura, A. lumbricoides and S. mansoni were detected in single infection in 124 (16.4%), 44 (5.8%) and 11 (1.5%) of the infected study subjects, respectively. Polyparasitism was found in 515 (56.7%) of the total examined. Up to 5 parasites were detected in some individuals. T. trichiura with A. lumbricoides, hookworm and S. mansoni constituted 102 (13.5%), 33 (4.3%) and 17 (2.2%) of the double infections, respectively. H. nana and S. mansoni predominantly affected males than females (P<0.05). The prevalence of Giardia trophozites and H. nana were significantly higher in pre-school children than other age groups (P<0.05). Higher proportions of teenagers were infected by A. lumbricoides and S. mansoni. Taeniasis was also dominant in teenagers. Conclusion: Intestinal parasitosis is highly prevalent in the study area. Public education on how to handle personal hygiene and proper use of latrines should be given to reduce the prevalence of infection. [Ethiop.J.Health Dev. 2007;21(1):12-17]