| Abstrakt: |
AbstractEnvironmental contamination by parasites is of public health importance because of the risk of infections for the populace. Soil and faecal samples randomly collected from six selected wards were analysed for parasites; 67.3 and 27.8% prevalence was recorded in soil and stool, respectively. Ascaris(18.4%), hookworm (6.6%), and Trichuris(2.8%) were identified from the stool. In the soil, Ascaris(36.5%), hookworm ova (18.1%), hookworm larvae (30.5%), Strongyloides(4.1%), Toxocara(6.1%), Isospora(1.8%), Toxascaris(1.4%), Cryptosporidium(0.6%), Trichuris(0.4%), and Eimeria(0.3%) were identified. Soil temperature and moisture content percent were significantly correlated with the incidence of parasites. The highest mean parasite intensity (14.5/g soil) was recorded in ward 5, while the lowest (4.2/g soil) was in ward 9 (p < 0.0001). Sandy clay soil had the highest prevalence, and the lowest was in loamy soil, however, differences were insignificant. The type of toilet facility used, source of drinking water, and knowledge of parasite transmission patterns were identified as significant risk factors. The high prevalence and similarity of parasites in humans and soil suggests cross contamination between soil and residents of the study area. Intensive health education, provision of good housing and portable water are imperative to reduce infections and the risks of epidemics. |
