Iranian South Medical Journal (Sep 2009)
Prevalence of Enterobious vermicolaris in the primary school students of Kouhdasht rural regions in the academic year of 2007-2008
Abstract
Background: Enterobious vermicolaris (EV) is a short-lived, tiny, and white human nematode that has afflicted almost one billion people all over the world. The prevalence rate of this parasite varies in diverse regions and is more common among children. This study was aimed to determine the prevalence of EV in primary school students of Kouhdasht rural regions. Methods: The students' parents filled out the questionnaires the samples were coded and gathered in the morning and were sent to the laboratory. The positive and negative results were recorded in a questionnaire after the samples were examined microscopically. Results: Out of 598 samples from the students of Kouhdasht rural regions, 202 ones (33.8%) were found to be afflicted with Enterobious vermicolaris. The obtained results as well as the variables included in the questionnaires were analyzed using chi-square test. Significant differences were observed between the results in terms of different rural areas, using soap regularly to wash hands prior to eating and clinical signs such as thinness, sleep disturbances, irritability, and anal itching. Conclusion: Since the parasite is transferred directly, there is a close relationship between the prevalence rate and the hygienic condition of the society. The exact diagnosis can decrease and prevent the parasite contamination by coordinating health condition with health instructions, as well as by providing health facilities.
