Enteroparasitoses in a population of students from a public school in the Municipality of Mirassol, São Paulo State, Brazil

Abstract

ABSTRACT

This study observed the prevalence of intestinal parasites in 310 students (2 to 15 years old) enrolled in a public school in the Municipality of Mirassol, São Paulo State, Brazil. A stool sample was collected from each child and analyzed by the methods of Faust and Hoffmann, Pons and Janer, normally used for detection of protozoa and human helminths. A total of 30.3% of the children analyzed were parasitized, with at least one pathogenic intestinal parasite. Giardia Lamblia was the most common protozoan (15.16%), followed by Entamoeba histolytica (0.64%). The helminths found were Ascaris lumbricoides (3.55%), Strongiloides stercoralis and Taenia sp, which were diagnosed in 0.32% of the samples. There was a significant association between the occurrence of enteroparasitoses and the use of tap water. The comparison between the age groups, gender and the presence of parasites showed no statistical relevance. Although there was no association between gastrointestinal disorders and the occurrence of intestinal parasitic diseases, these agents may cause new infections because the children can act as carriers and therefore a source of contamination. This article suggests that a continuing education program focused on the prevention and treatment of parasitic infections is a key measure for their eradication.