Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors of Intestinal Parasitic Infections among School-aged Children of Three Primary Schools in Awae-Yaoundé, Mefou-et-Afamba Division, Cameroon

Abstract

Intestinal parasitic infections are among the most common and widespread infections worldwide, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. Despite the existence of numerous studies on intestinal parasites (especially helminths and protozoa) among school-aged children in Cameroon, there is a lack of data on this topic in the Awae district. This cross-sectional study aims to evaluate the prevalence and associated risk factors related to the transmission of intestinal parasites to school-aged children of the locality of Awae. Stool samples were collected from 143 students aged 4 to15 years, and analysed for the detection of intestinal parasites. At least 15 parasitic species, including 10 (67%) helminths and 5 (33%) protozoa, were identified. Among the diagnosed species, Ascaris lumbricoides was the most prevalent (55.94 ± 8.14%) and Iodamoeba butschlii the least prevalent (0.70 ± 1.37%). Students of Awae Public School were more infected (86 ± 10.37% %) compared to the two others (73 ± 13.75% in Essabi Public School and 62 ± 12.28% in Meyo Public School); those aged between 8 to 11 years were the most infected (83 ± 10.11%), while those aged between 12 to 15 years were less infected (56 ± 15.58%.). Non-compliance with hygiene rules significantly influenced the transmission of intestinal parasites. Eighty-three (81 ± 8.44%) of the infested participants were polyparisitized, dispecific and trispecific parasitic associations were the most common.