Frequency of intestinal parasitic infections in elementary schools in Veracruz, Mexico

Abstract

Introduction: intestinal parasitic infections (IPI) mainly affect school-age children; these infections constitute a public health problem, particularly in developing countries. The aim of this study was to determine the frequency and clinical characteristics of primary school children with IPI. Material and methods: prospective and cross-sectional study carried out in four elementary schools in Minatitlán, Veracruz. Three serial samples were analyzed by coproparasitoscopic, by direct and Faust flotation methods. In addition, a survey was conducted to record clinical data and lifestyle habits. Results: 112 students, aged from six to 12 years, from different grades of primary education were included. IPI frequency was 30.3%. Five species of parasites were identified, with a predominance of Blastocystis sp. (76.4%) and Entamoeba histolytica/dispar (11.7%). Main symptoms were diarrhea and nausea. Conclusion: the high frequency of IPI in school children observed in this study should be useful to carry-out strategies for its prevention.