Infections of Dwarf Tapeworm <i>Hymenolepis nana</i> (Cestoda: Hymenolepididae) and Its Associated Risk Factors Among Internally Displaced Children in Deynile District, Mogadishu, Somalia

Abstract

Background Hymenolepis nana remains a major public health problem in areas with inadequate sanitation and limited access to healthcare. The infection is common in developing countries with high fecal–oral transmission rates. In Somalia, frequent internal displacement caused by conflict and natural disasters increases the vulnerability of children living in internally displaced person (IDP) camps. Objective This study is aimed at determining the prevalence of H. nana infection and identifying associated risk factors among displaced children residing in IDP camps in the Deynile district of Mogadishu, Somalia. Methods A community‐based cross‐sectional study was conducted from February to March 2024 among children aged 6 months–15 years in two IDP camps: Iga‐Daba Geey and Jilyaal. A total of 384 children were selected using a convenient sampling method. Data were collected through structured questionnaires covering sociodemographic information, hygiene practices, and potential risk factors. Stool samples were examined microscopically for H. nana eggs using the saline wet mount technique. Logistic regression analyses were performed to identify statistically significant risk factors. Results The overall prevalence of H. nana infection was 27.08%, with males being significantly more affected than females ( p = 0.003). Children from Iga‐Daba Geey had higher infection rates compared with those from Jilyaal ( p = 0.004). Significant risk factors included large family size (&gt; 5 members) (AOR = 6.96, p &lt; 0.0001), playing on unclean grounds (AOR = 3.92, p = 0.030), fingernail biting (AOR = 3.25, p = 0.002), and consumption of unwashed vegetables and fruits (AOR = 8.16, p &lt; 0.0001). Conclusions This study reveals a high prevalence of H. nana infection among children in IDP camps in Mogadishu. The findings underscore the need for targeted public health interventions, including improved sanitation, hygiene education, and regular deworming programs, to reduce infection risks among displaced populations.