Prevalence and risk factors of intestinal parasites among Delgi elementary and junior secondary school students Delgi; North Gondar administrative zone

Abstract

Epidemiological information on the prevalence of various intestinal parasitic infections and identification of local risk factors in different regions/localities is a prerequisite to develop appropriate control strategies, particularly among high-risk groups. Objective: the aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of intestinal parasites and associated risk factors among school children in Delgi elementary and junior secondary school in North Gondar administrative zone. Methods: A cross sectional parasitological study involving 704 school children was conducted from Sept.27-oct.6, 2010. Structured questionnaire were used to identify the risk factors. Stool specimens were examined using direct smear and formal -ether concentration technique. Finally Data entry and analysis was done using Epi-info and SPSS statistical soft ware respectively. Results: Ten species of intestinal parasites were identified with an overall prevalence of 79.8% (562 of 704 children).The predominant parasites involved were A. lumbricoides 338 (48%), G.lambilia 295 (41.9%) and E.histolytica/dispar 192(27.3%). The prevalence of A. lumbricoides was the highest compared with other parasite species. Of the total positive individuals 96(13.6%) single infection and 466(66.2%) were mixed infection, from this mixed infection the majority of the students had double infection309 (43.9%).The highest prevalent parasitic species among single and mixed infections were G.lamblia (6.3%) and A.lumbricoids and G.lambilia (14.1%) respectively. In this study intestinal parasite infection was not statistically associated with Age, sex, residence, availability and usage of latrines (p>0.05). On the other hand ,a statistical significance association was found Between intestinal parasite infection and in those children who have low mother educational level , children who have habit of eating raw/ unwashed vegetables , children who drink unprotected well/spring and river water and children who do not have hand washing practice before meal (P< 0.05). Conclusion: Intestinal parasite infection is a health problem among Delgi school children. Interventions including improvement of sanitation, provision of clean water, and health education on personal hygiene to the students and to the parents, especially to mothers are required.