The prevalence of intestinal parasite infection and associated factors among food handlers in eating and drinking establishments in Chagni Town, Northwest Ethiopia

Abstract

Objectives: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of intestinal parasites and associated factors among food handlers in Changni district, Awi zone Ethiopia. Results: A total of 442 food handlers were included in the study with a response rate of 90%. The prevalence of infection with at least one of the intestinal parasites was 14.8% [95% CI (11.5%, 18.0%)]. According to multivariable logistic regression analysis, lack of regular hand washing before meal [AOR = 4.77, 95% CI (2.09, 10.87)], regular hand washing after visiting toilets, [AOR = 3.39, 95% CI (1.52, 7.57)], trimmed fingernails, [AOR = 2.39, 95% CI (1.29, 4.42)], and frequent medical check-ups for intestinal parasites [AOR = 3.54, 95% CI (1.11, 11.31)] were significantly associated with the infection of intestinal parasitosis.