Burden of intestinal helminths and associated factors three years after initiation of mass drug administration in Arbaminch Zuria district, Southern Ethiopia.

BACKGROUND: Epidemiological information on the burden of various parasitic infections and associated factors in different localities is indispensable to develop appropriate control and prevention measures as well as to monitor and evaluate existing programs. Hence the aim of the present study was to assess the prevalence and associated factors of intestinal helminths among school age children in Arbaminch Zuria district, Southern Ethiopia.

METHODS: A community based cross-sectional study was conducted by recruiting 391 primary school age children. Participants were selected using simple random sampling technique. Pre-tested structured questionnaire was used to collect data about socio-demographic characteristics and perceived factors associated with intestinal parasitosis. Stool microscopic examination was done following standard protocol. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Science version 22.

RESULTS: Among 391 children participated, 181 (46.3%; 95% CI: 41.9-51.5) were infected with intestinal helminths. The magnitudes of single and double infections were 40.2% and 6.1% respectively. Seven helminths were detected among which Ascaris lumbricoides was with the highest frequency (56, 14.3%) followed by hookworms (55, 14.1%). Not washing fruits and vegetables before consumption (AOR = 2.16; 95%CI: 1.10-4.25, p = 0.026) and habit of swimming (AOR = 1.17; 95%CI: 1.03-1.95, p = 0.045) were significantly associated with helminthic infection.

CONCLUSION: High prevalence of intestinal helminthic infections among school age children demands integration of deworming with water, hygiene and sanitation as well as consistent health education.