Prevalence of intestinal parasites in Bantar community in Koshi Rural Municipality -3 Sunsari Nepal

Abstract

Intestinal parasitic infections contribute significantly to morbidity and mortality worldwide, particularly among individuals with low socioeconomic status and poor hygiene and sanitation. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of intestinal parasites in the Bantar community of Koshi Rural Municipality-3, Sunsari District, in relation to their socioeconomic status. A total of 150 stool samples were randomlycollected in September 2022 from individuals of various age groups and genders and preserved in a 2.5% potassium dichromate solution. The prevalence of intestinal parasites was determined through stool examinations using direct smear and concentration techniques (Sedimentation and flotation) at the Central Department of Zoology, Kirtipur, and Kathmandu. Additionally, a structured questionnaire was used to identify potential risk factors.Out of 150 participants, 95 (63.3%) were found to be infected with one or more intestinal parasites. The prevalence was higher in females (51, 34%) than in males (44, 29.3%), though the difference was not statistically significant (P > 0.05). The highest infection rate was observed in the 10–20 age group (23%), while the lowest (4.6%) was recorded in individuals aged 51–60 years, with no statistically significant variation (P > 0.05). Six species of intestinal parasites were identified, with Ascaris lumbricoides (18.8%) being the most prevalent, followed by Giardia lamblia (14.6%), Entamoeba histolytica (10%), Strongyloidesstercoralis (8.8%), Hymenolepis nana (8%), and Trichuris trichiura (3%). Single infections (46.6%) were more common than double infections (16.6%). A lack of awareness about intestinal parasitic infections was evident among most participants. The high prevalence of these infections in the Bantar community appears to be directly linked to unsafe drinking water, inadequate health education, poor sanitation, and low socioeconomic conditions, all of which contribute to the continued burden of infection within the community.