Comparative Recovery of Soil-transmitted Helminths Using Different Diagnostic Techniques in Akure South Local Government, Ondo State

Abstract

This study assessed the prevalence of soil-transmitted parasites in Akure South Local Government, Ondo State, using three diagnostic techniques (salt flotation, zinc sulphate flotation, and sedimentation) on 50 soil samples from five different sites (house, gutter, dumpsites, vegetable farm, and hospital vicinity). Of the samples, 84% were positive for parasites and three parasites were recovered Ascaris lumbricoides, Toxocara spp., and Strongyloides stercoralis with Toxocara spp. being the most prevalent, particularly in gutter (75.33%) and hospital vicinities (55.56%). Diagnostic recovery varied as Toxocara spp. was detected only by flotation methods and there was no significant difference when comparing the prevalence of Toxocara spp. across the collection sites for both salt flotation (p = 0.79) and zinc sulphate flotation (p = 0.76). Ascaris lumbricoides and Strongyloides stercoralis were isolated via sedimentation and the prevalence of the parasite were not significantly different (p = 0.59) across the study sites. These findings highlight widespread soil contamination and underscore the importance of improved sanitation and animal management especially stray dogs and cats to reduce zoonotic disease risks. The study also demonstrates the need to select appropriate diagnostic techniques for accurate surveillance of soil-transmitted helminths.