Epidemiology of Intestinal Polyparasitism among Schoolchildren In Sohag, Egypt

Abstract

Introduction: Intestinal parasitic infections (IPI) are still public health problems in many communities, particularly among children in developing countries.This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the current prevalence and risk factors associated with intestinal polyparasitism (the concurrent infection with multiple intestinal parasite species) among schoolchildren in Sohag governorate, Egypt. Methodology / Principal findings: Fecal samples were collected from 200 schoolchildren (51.5% boys and 48.5% girls), preserved and examined by using formalin-ethyl acetate concentration technique and modified Kinyoun acid fast stain. Demographic information was collected by using a standardized questionnaire. Overall, 63.5% of the children were found to be positive for at least one parasite species. Of these, 23.5% were polyparasitized. The overall prevalence of Cryptosporidium, Giardia duodenalis, Entamebahistolytica/ dispar, Blastocystisinfections were 34%, 14.5% and 13%, respectively. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression models showed that none of the age, gender, residence or family size were risk factors for polyparasitism. Conclusions/Significance: Intestinal polyparasitism is prevalent among children in Sohag, Egypt. Hence, effective and sustainable control measures, including school-based periodic chemotherapy, providing adequate health education focused on good personal hygiene practices and proper sanitation, as well as safe drinking water supply should be implemented to reduce the prevalence and consequences of these infections in this population.