South Asian Journal of Parasitology

Assessment of Abundance and Parasitic Contamination of Synanthropic Flies in Selected Waste Dump Sites in Awka Metropolis: A Public Health Perspective

2026-03-07T13:26:41+00:00

The study to assess the presence and types of pathogenic organisms carried by Synanthropic flies collected from selected refuse dump sites in Awka metropolis employed a cross-sectional ecological survey in Awka and surrounding areas from May 2024 to March 2025. This study assessed the abundance, species composition, and parasite carriage of synanthropic flies collected from refuse dump sites across Awka metropolis, southeastern Nigeria. A total of 1,449 flies belonging to seven species were collected from 11 locations within the study area. Musca domestica was the most abundant species (52.7%), followed by Chrysomya megacephala (19.6%) and Sarcophagidae spp. (14.0%), while Stomoxys calcitrans was the least abundant (0.8%). Fly abundance and species composition varied significantly among locations (χ² = 114.06, df = 60, p < 0.001), Okpuno recorded the highest mean abundance, whereas Amawbia had the lowest. Parasitological analysis identified 71 parasite stages belonging to eight taxa. Ascaris lumbricoides was the most prevalent parasite (36.62%), followed by Entamoeba histolytica cysts (18.31%) and Cryptosporidium species cysts (15.49%), reflecting considerable environmental faecal contamination. Musca domestica carried the highest number of parasite stages (39.4%), highlighting its dominant role as a mechanical vector. While parasite occurrence differed significantly among parasite species (p = 0.026) and parasite load varied significantly among fly species (p = 0.003), no significant association was observed between specific fly species and parasite types (p = 0.902).The high abundance of synanthropic flies and their carriage of medically important parasites in Awka metropolis pose potential public health risks. These results underscore the need for improved waste management, enhanced environmental sanitation, and effective fly control strategies to reduce fly-mediated transmission of intestinal parasites.

Intestinal Parasitic Infections among Pregnant Females in Anambra East LGA, Anambra State

2026-03-21T10:22:58+00:00

Aim: Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) pose a significant public health concern, especially for pregnant women, as they can lead to serious complications such as anemia, malnutrition, and adverse fetal outcomes. This study investigates the prevalence of IPIs among pregnant women attending antenatal care in Anambra East Local Government Area, Nigeria.

Study Design: The study is a hospital-based cross-sectional study.

Place and Duration of Study: It involved screening of pregnant women receiving antenatal care at government-owned clinics and private health centers in the Anambra East LGA, Anambra State, Nigeria, for a period of 3 months.

Methodology: Data were collected from 313 pregnant women using structured questionnaires and laboratory analyses of stool samples.

Results: The findings revealed an overall prevalence of 28.4% for IPIs. Notably, Ascaris lumbricoides was the most prevalent parasite, found in 10.2% of the participants, followed by hookworm at 8.6%, Trichuris trichiura at 3.8%, Entamoeba histolytica at 3.5%, and Giardia lamblia at 2.2%. The majority of infected pregnant women experienced light-intensity IPIs, accounting for 20.8% (n=65) of the cases. Several socio-demographic risk factors were associated with IPIs, including being a younger pregnant woman, lacking formal education, and practicing open defecation. The prevalence of IPIs was highest among women who used unsafe sources of drinking water and local toilets. An assessment of knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding IPIs among pregnant women revealed that 56.5% were aware of these infections; however, only 29.7% understood the transmission method through contaminated food.

Conclusion: The results suggest an urgent need for routine screening and public health interventions focused on improving sanitation and hygiene education, as well as recommending deworming programs during antenatal care.

Bionomics and Distribution of Human-Infecting Geohelminths in Dumpsite Foci across Two Communities in Rivers State, Nigeria

2026-03-23T12:19:39+00:00

Geohelminths are parasites that are primarily transmitted through soil contaminated with human faeces, food, or water, as they exhibit direct life cycles that do not necessitate intermediate hosts or vectors. They thrive predominantly in tropical and subtropical regions, where favourable environmental conditions and inadequate sanitation significantly enhance their transmission. The dynamic processes governing geohelminth transmission, particularly their free-living stages, highlight the need to understand their ecological and environmental interactions. This study investigates the prevalence and distribution of human-infecting geohelminths in soils from dumpsites located in two communities in Rivers State, Nigeria. By providing valuable data on geohelminth distribution and risk factors, this research aims to inform targeted policies and control measures to mitigate the burden of geohelminth infections in endemic regions. A total of 200 soil samples were collected and analysed using flotation and centrifugal methods to detect the presence of geohelminth eggs and larvae. Eggs and larvae were identified using the Atlas of Parasitology. The data were entered into Microsoft Excel 2019 and analysed using simple percentage calculations to interpret the prevalence and distribution of geohelminths in the studied communities. The findings revealed an overall prevalence of 54.5%, with the following species identified: Ascaris lumbricoides (27%), Trichuris trichiura (11.5%), Strongyloides stercoralis (9%), Ancylostoma duodenale (6.5%), and Necator americanus (0.5%). The Bukuma community exhibited a higher prevalence (60%) compared to Nkpor (49%), with site-specific variations attributed to differences in sanitation practices and waste management. The study highlights the significant role of environmental factors, such as inadequate sanitation, indiscriminate waste disposal, and open defecation, in facilitating geohelminth transmission. These findings underscore the urgent need for public health interventions focusing on improving personal and environmental hygiene, promoting proper waste disposal, and discouraging open defecation. Effective control measures should prioritise public education, community hygiene, and the implementation of structured sanitation policies to mitigate the burden of geohelminth infections.

Does Anthropogenic Activities Affect the Recrudescence, Prevalence, Incidence, Mean Intensity and Abundance of Onchocerciasis in Enugu State Nigeria?

2026-03-23T13:59:32+00:00

Despite years of mass drug administration to inhabitants of Awgu in Enugu State Nigeria, onchocerciasisi has persisted. Evidently the persistence of onchocerciasis is linked to environmental drivers of recrudescence, occupation and anthropogenic activities. There were 0% prevalence rate of body itching among respondents that do not visit streams. Prevalence of body nodules was same for both male and female that visits streams and rivers 50 ± 0.01%. Prevalence of body nodules among females that don’t visit rivers and streams was 3.82±0.12% and the male counterpart was 0.63±0.03%. Prevalence of red eyes among female folks that visits streams and rivers was 60.58 ± 0.04% and 39.42 ± 0.21% for the males. Female folks that do not visit had prevalence of 4.46±0.09% and the males 1.27±0.02%. Molecular identification using using DNA analysis of dried blood and primer sequence of OvFWD 5′-TGT GGA AAT TCA CCT AAA TAT G-3′, OvREV 5′-AAT AAC TGA TGA CCT ATG ACC-3′ in a singleplex reaction was employed in the early identification of Onchocerca volvulus. Residents were identified under, traders, farmers, civil servants and students. Farmers, traders and civil servants had highest cases of onchocerciasis. Prevalence of body itching among female folks that visit streams and rivers was 57.25 ± 0.32% while their male had 42.75 ± 0.15%. There were no body rashes and leopard skin among the male and female folks that do not visit streams and rivers. Female folks that visit streams and rivers had rashes prevalence of 58.14 ± 0.05% and males 42.85 ± 0.60%. Leopard skin prevalence was equal for both female and male folks that visits streams and rivers 50 ± 0.01. Results suggests that onchocerciasis is associated with anthropogenic activities. As such Interventions should be an integrated management approach involving mass drug administration, vector ecology and ecosystem manipulations and on provision of portable water.

Antibiotic Susceptibility of Escherichia coli Isolated from Rodent Droppings

2026-03-28T08:02:46+00:00

This study evaluated the antibiotic susceptibility of Escherichia coli isolated from rodent droppings. A purposive sampling technique was adopted in the selection of the rodent droppings. One hundred and fifteen (115) different rodent droppings were collected from nine locations in the environment of Federal University Teaching Hospital (FUTH), Owerri, using sterile containers. Standard microbiological methods were adopted in the isolation and identification of Escherichia coli from the rodent droppings. Disc diffusion technique was adopted in the determination of the antibiotic susceptibility of Escherichia coli. Out of the One hundred and fifteen (115) samples analyzed, Escherichia coli occurred in 68 rodent droppings samples (60.0%). Antibiotic susceptibility of Escherichia coli revealed zones of inhibition ranged 8 mm to 26 mm with some of the isolates being resistant to some antibiotics such as amoxicillin, ofloxacin, streptomycin, gentamycin and septrin. Therefore, to prevent possible microbiological contaminations, safety issues for the environment and uncovered foods kept in the hospital should be properly checked before use.

Knowledge, Attitude and use of Insecticide Treated Nets by Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Care at NomehUnateze Community Primary Health Care Centre, Enugu State Nigeria

2026-04-04T08:04:34+00:00

Malaria is a major public health problem in tropical and subtropical regions of the world. Malaria infection especially in pregnancy is a public health concern, with emphasis on the risk involved for the mother as well as the fetus. Knowledge, attitude and use of insecticide treated nets among pregnant women cannot be overemphasized because of the economic impact it has on a country, which is seen especially in developing countries like Nigeria. A descriptive cross sectional study was analyzed using a Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 29 and data were collected from a total number of 322 respondents using interviewer administered pretested questionnaire. In this survey, 90.4% were aware of insecticide treated nets from various sources of information. 42.5% of the respondents were between the age group 25-29years. 70.7% of the respondents knew what insecticide treated nets are. Owned an insecticide treated net while, 61.8% of the respondents who slept under the insecticide treated net everyday. Amongst the 35.4% of the respondents that did not own an insecticide treated nets, 28.95 of them did not know where to get one, 27.2% would not buy unless the government gave them, 21.9% thought that insecticide treated nets were not available in their area, 17.5% were not interest and 4.4% felt insecticide treated nets were expensive. Although the results revealed positive attitude of pregnant women towards the use of insecticide treated nets with regards to information gotten from health workers, it is important that the needs and concerns of those who do not have insecticide treated nets be addressed. In conclusion, it is recommended that pregnant women should be educated on the importance of insecticide treated nets at large with adequate provision of these nets free by the government and this findings supports policy makers and health practitioners in strengthening malaria prevention and maternal health program.

Prevalence of Schistosomiasis and Associated Risk Factors in Abua/Odual Local Government Area Rivers State Nigeria

2026-04-04T10:55:19+00:00

This study investigated the prevalence of Schistosomiasis and its associated risk factors among primary school pupils in Abua/Odual Local Government Area, Rivers State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional survey was conducted over six weeks (July–August 2022), during which 68 urine samples were collected from pupils in Community Primary School, Omelema, and Community Primary School, Odaga, and examined using the centrifugation method. Overall, 8 (11.9%) samples were positive for Schistosoma haematobium eggs. Infection prevalence was higher in males (17.6%) than females (5.9%), although the difference was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Pupils from CPS Omelema showed a slightly higher prevalence (13.9%) compared to CPS Odaga (9.4%), with no significant association between school and infection (p = 0.564). Age-specific prevalence was highest among pupils aged ≥11 years (20.8%), followed by those aged 8–10 years (8.7%) and 5–7 years (4.8%), though these differences were also not statistically significant. Assessment of risk factors revealed that while over half of the pupils (51.4%) relied on borehole or tap water for drinking, a majority (66.2%) reported frequent contact with stream water, particularly for bathing. Although the overall prevalence was low, these exposure patterns suggest ongoing transmission risks. The study highlights the need for sustained control measures, including improved access to safe water, regular health education, and periodic mass drug administration, to prevent resurgence and support long-term control in the area.

Prevalence and in vitro Characterization of Intestinal Parasites among School Children in Rural Communities in Bayelsa State, Nigeria

2026-04-07T09:32:23+00:00

Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) remain a major public health concern among school children in rural communities. This study assessed the prevalence and cultural characterization of intestinal parasites among 240 pupils aged 5–15 years. Stool samples were analyzed using direct wet mount, formol-ether concentration, and culture techniques with cells/field of ×40 objective. The overall prevalence was 47.9% (115/240). Ascaris lumbricoides was the most prevalent parasite (21.7%), followed by Entamoeba histolytica (16.3%), hookworm (14.2%), Giardia lamblia (8.8%), and Trichuris trichiura (7.5%). Parasite load differed significantly (F = 18.42, p < 0.05), with A. lumbricoides recording the highest intensity (188.3 ± 6.5 eggs/g) and T. trichiura the lowest (87.7 ± 2.5 eggs/g). Children aged 8–10 years had the highest prevalence (55.3%) with a significant association (χ² = 6.21, p < 0.05), while gender differences were not significant (χ² = 1.12, p > 0.05). Culture results showed that E. histolytica had significantly higher growth (46.7 ± 1.5 cells/field) than G. lamblia (32.0 ± 2.0 cells/field) (t = 9.21, p < 0.05). Significant risk factors included untreated water (30.0%), open defecation (28.3%), and barefoot walking (26.3%) (p < 0.05). Single infections (73.9%) were more common than mixed infections (26.1%). Intestinal Parasitic Infections were highly prevalent, with significant variation in parasite distribution and growth characteristics. Integrated control strategies including improved sanitation, safe water supply, health education, and routine deworming are strongly recommended.

Environmental Contamination and Transmission Pathways of Microbial and Parasitic Pathogens in Wastewater-Irrigated Food Systems

2026-04-07T12:08:36+00:00

The reuse of wastewater in agriculture is increasingly practiced but poses significant risks to food safety due to microbial and parasitic contamination. This study investigated environmental contamination and transmission pathways of pathogens in wastewater-irrigated food systems using wastewater, soil, and vegetable samples. Wastewater recorded the highest microbial load, with total coliform counts of (3.45 ± 0.12) × 10⁵ CFU/mL, compared to (2.15 ± 0.09) × 10⁴ CFU/g in soil and (4.85 ± 0.13) × 10⁴ CFU/g in vegetables. Escherichia coli prevalence was 93.3% in wastewater and 83.3% in vegetables, while Salmonella spp. occurred in 70.0% and 63.3%, respectively. Parasitic contamination showed Ascaris lumbricoides as the most prevalent (66.7% in wastewater; 60.0% in vegetables). Physicochemical analysis revealed high biochemical oxygen demand (185.4 ± 12.6 mg/L) and turbidity (132.7 ± 15.3 NTU), indicating favorable conditions for pathogen survival. Strong correlations were observed between wastewater and vegetable contamination (r = 0.891), while regression analysis identified wastewater as the strongest predictor of vegetable contamination (β = 0.58, R² = 0.843), indicating a strong model fit. Pathway analysis confirmed both direct (β = 0.51) and indirect (β = 0.47) contamination routes. These findings indicate that wastewater is a major driver of microbial and parasitic contamination in food systems, posing significant public health risks. Improved wastewater treatment, safer irrigation practices, and strengthened hygiene and monitoring systems are recommended to reduce contamination and enhance food safety.

Prevalence of Neonatal Malaria and Associated Hematological Derangements in Some Hospitals in Taraba State, Nigeria

2026-04-11T06:20:44+00:00

Neonatal malaria is an under-recognized condition in malaria-endemic regions, despite its potential contribution to neonatal morbidity. This study assessed the prevalence, parasitemia patterns, and hematological changes associated with malaria among neonates in Taraba State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 1,500 neonates recruited from four tertiary health facilities: Federal Medical Centre Jalingo, Specialist Hospital Jalingo, First Referral Hospital Mutum-Biyu, and General Hospital Zing. Malaria diagnosis and parasitemia grading were performed using standard microscopy. Hematological parameters were analyzed using standard laboratory techniques. Statistical analysis was carried out using chi-square and t-test, with significance set at p < 0.05. The overall prevalence of neonatal malaria was 5.7% (85/1500), with significant variation across study sites (χ² = 8.119; p < 0.05). The highest prevalence was recorded at General Hospital Zing (8.0%) and the lowest at First Referral Hospital Mutum-Biyu (3.2%). There was no significant difference in infection rates between male (5.6%) and female (5.7%) neonates (χ² = 0.005; p > 0.05). Parasitemia analysis showed 5.2% low, 0.4% moderate, and 0.0% high parasitemia, with significant differences across locations (χ² = 20.657; p < 0.05). Infected neonates exhibited significantly elevated total white blood cell counts and differential counts, alongside reduced packed cell volume, lymphocytes, and platelet counts (p < 0.001). Neonatal malaria in Taraba State occurs at a moderate prevalence and is associated with significant hematological abnormalities. Routine screening and early diagnosis are recommended to improve neonatal outcomes.

Parasitic Contamination of Drinking Water Sources in Kura Local Government Area of Kano State, Nigeria

2026-04-11T10:37:06+00:00

Background: Contamination of water sources with parasites are a threat to millions of people in developing countries, which result in severe morbidities and mortalities.

Aim: The study aims to assess the parasitic contamination of drinking water sources in Kura Local Government Area of Kano State.

Methodology: Total of eighty (80) water samples were collected twenty (20) each from wells, ponds, boreholes, and streams in clean bottles. Each of the water samples were examine for macroscopic and physical examination and subjected to parasitological assessment using standard parasitological techniques.

Results: The overall prevalence of parasites in the samples is 16.25%. The prevalence of the parasite in relation to parasite species showed that Ascaris lumbricoides has the highest occurrence with total of 4 appearances representing 30.7%, followed by hookworm with total of 3 frequencies accounting for 23.1% while G. lamblia and T. trichiura has the least appearance with 1 each representing 7.7% each. The prevalence of parasites in relation to the water sources indicated that pond has the highest number of parasites examined with total of 5 representing 38.5% followed by stream with total of 4 parasites while well water has 2 parasite and borehole recorded only 1 parasite; with exception of borehole, other sources were contaminated with parasites. There is statistical significant difference in the number of parasite in relation to water sources.

Conclusion: It is concluded that the sampled water sources in the study area contain water-borne parasites.

Evidence of Dengue and Chikungunya Virus Co-circulation in Field Collected Aedes Mosquito Populations across Delhi, India

2026-04-13T13:06:05+00:00

Aims: Vector surveillance provides early warning of arboviral transmission prior to the outbreaks. Delhi the capital of India, experiences frequent Dengue and Chikungunya cases. The study aimed to determine the prevalence and distribution of Dengue and Chikungunya virus in Aedes mosquitoes collected across different areas of Delhi.

Study Design: Field & Lab based study on Aedes mosquito collected from different zones of MCD Delhi.

Place and Duration of Study: Centre for Medical Entomology and Vector Management, VAD Laboratory, National Centre for Disease Control, Delhi from May 2025 to October 2025

Methodology: Adult Aedes mosquitoes were collected from 54 localities across Delhi in collaboration with the Municipal Corporation of Delhi. Specimens from residential and peri-domestic sites, were morphologically identified, and pooled (≤10 mosquitoes per pool). Viral RNA was extracted using TRIzol followed by column purification. Detection of dengue virus (DENV) and chikungunya virus (CHIKV) was performed using Real-time RT-PCR targeting the C-prM and E1 genes, respectively. Samples with Ct ≤40 were considered positive. The minimum infection rate (MIR) was calculated per 1,000 mosquitoes. Sampling and screening were conducted weekly or fortnightly.

Results: A total of 133 mosquito pools were screened for dengue virus (DENV) and chikungunya virus (CHIKV) using real-time polymerase chain reaction (Real Time -qPCR). Positive mosquito pools were detected in multiple zones of Delhi. Out of total tested pool (133 Pools), 8.27 % were positive for DENV alone while 3.76% showed co-positivity for both DENV and CHIKV viruses.

Conclusion: This study provides entomological evidence of concurrent circulation of DENV and CHIKV in Aedes populations in Delhi. Detection of both viruses in mosquito pools indicates the potential risk of dual outbreak and possible trans-ovarian transmission and emphasizing the need for strengthened integrated vector surveillance for timely outbreak preparedness and control

Prevalence of Schistosomiasis among Primary Schools Pupils at Gala Village in Sumaila Local Government Area, Kano State

2026-04-14T12:51:48+00:00

Background: Schistosomiasis is a major public health problem in Nigeria, particularly among school-aged children in rural areas who have frequent contact with freshwater habitats.

Aim: This study was conducted to determine the prevalence of urinary schistosomiasis and associated risk factors among primary school pupils in Gala Village, Sumaila Local Government Area of Kano State, Nigeria.

Methodology: A cross-sectional study was done, and 70 urine samples were randomly collected from both male and female pupils. The urine samples were then examined macroscopically and microscopically using the centrifugation sedimentation technique for the presence of Schistosoma haematobium ova. A structured questionnaire was used to obtain the required information from the pupils.

Results: The prevalence of urinary schistosomiasis was found to be 15.7% (11/70). The prevalence was higher among males than females and was statistically significant (p = 0.01). The highest prevalence was found among pupils aged 11-13 years. In addition, all the pupils who were positive for urinary schistosomiasis reported having engaged in water contact activities. Haematuria was found among 10.0% of the study participants.

Conclusion: It was concluded that schistosomiasis was more common among the males who were positive for urinary schistosomiasis.