Prevalence and factors associated with intestinal protozoan and helminthic infections among certified food handlers in Eldoret town, Uasin Gishu county in Kenya

Abstract

Background: Food and water remain a major source of most these intestinal parasites with food handlers acting as reservoirs and transmission agents. Objective: This study aimed at determining the prevalence and factors associated with intestinal parasitic infections among certified food handlers in Eldoret Town. Methods: The study area was Eldoret town in Uasin Gishu County. Data collection took place between the month of May and June 2015. The cross sectional study enrolled 249 certified food handlers with valid medical certificates in various food establishments in Eldoret town. Results: The overall prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection among the certified food handlers was 30.4% (58/191). E. histolytica (32.8%; n=19) was the most prevalent intestinal parasite. The prevalence of intestinal parasites differed significantly by food handlers’ age groups, per capita monthly income, type of organic waste receptacle inside the food premise, and hand washing habit after visiting a toilet/latrine (p<0.05). Food handlers’ failure to wash their hands after visiting a toilet/latrine was a risk factor associated with intestinal parasitic infections (OR, 0.35; p=0.013). Conclusion: The high prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections reported among the certified food handlers in Eldoret is a clear indication of poor food handling practices in the town.