Prevalence of Parasitic Infections among School Children in Bhaili, Durg, Chhattisgarh, India

Abstract

In developing countries including India intestinal parasitic infection is a major health problem. From different parts of the country many studies have been done. However, very few studies have been done from our area i.e. Durg, Chhattisgarh. About 2 billion people are infected with parasite globally. Children are most affected by parasite although it affected in all age group. Children become prime victim who affect their physical and mental development, ability to learn and school attendance. The present study was conducted in the Department of Microbiology, CCMMC, Bhaili, Durg Dist. Chhattisgarh; India. The objective of this study was to evaluate prevalence of parasitic infection among school children and their association with socio- demographic, environmental and behavioral habits of school children. The specimen was selected randomly. This study was conduct among 250 children (6-15 years of age) from the above school. Stool sample were collected and brought immediately to the microbiology laboratory at department of microbiology for processing. The specimens were examined by both macroscopically and microscopically for the presence of parasite. Parasitological standard examination methods were followed. Out of total 250 stool sample was collected from school children in this study, 160 were male and 90 were female. A total of 78 were positive for one or more parasite. Out of total positive 53.9% were protozoan, 38.5% were helminthes and 7.7% were mixed type. Entamoeba histolytica 38.5% and Ascaris lumbricoides 19.2% were the commonest protozoan and helminthes respectively. The other parasite found were Giardia lamblia 19.2%, Hookworm 10.3%, Taenia spp 5.1%. Multiple parasitisms were found in 7.7% children. The present study shows 31.2% parasitic infection which is still important health problems in our region. Health awareness program, personal hygiene, hand washing as well as uses of sanitary latrine and treatment of food to reduce the incidence of parasitic infection should be carried out in these communities.