Prevalence of Parasitic Contamination of Solanum aethiopicum in Selected Markets in Port Harcourt Metropolis, Rivers State, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Fresh vegetables play crucial roles in a healthy diet and are widely consumed for their nutritional and medicinal value. However, in recent years, there has been a rise in the number of reported cases of foodborne illnesses caused by intestinal parasites associated with consuming fresh vegetables. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of parasitic contamination of Solanum aethiopicum (African garden eggs) sold in Port Harcourt and assess the level of vendors' awareness of health risks and implications. Methods: Garden egg samples were purchased from vendors in Mile 3, Mile 1, and Ozuoba Markets. Garden eggs were washed with normal saline, and the sediments were obtained for microscopic examination using Direct wet mount with normal saline, Lugol's iodine, and modified Ziehl-Neelsen staining. Statistical analysis was performed using GraphPad Prism Software Version 9.0, San Diego, California, United States of America. Results: Results from the study showed a prevalence of 22% parasitic contamination in the three selected markets, with a statistical significance of P < 0.05. Seventy-three percent (73%) parasitic contamination rate was detected from the examined Mile 3 market samples, which consisted of Balantidium coli (81.8%) and Taenia species (18.1%). No parasites were detected in the examined Mile 1 market samples (0%) and Ozuoba market samples (0%). Conclusion: These findings highlight the level of parasitic contamination and warrant the need to identify the sources of vegetable (Eggplant) contamination. Proper hygiene, such as hand hygiene and good environmental sanitation, is recommended.