Sources of Transmission of Pathogenic Intestinal Parasites in Humans and Vegetables in Omdurman, Sudan – 2015

Abstract

This study was designed to investigate the possibility of infection via food with pathogenic organisms. It was carried out in the city Omdurman in Khartoum States during the period from December 2015 to November 2019. The objectives of the study were to identify the causative intestinal parasites in the examined individuals. A total of 600 stool specimens and 256 vegetables samples were examined. fecal samples were observed macroscopically for the consistency and presence of mucus, blood, worm larvae and cestodes segments. The samples were then examined by wet smear and formal - ether concentration technique. A bout 200 -300 grams of each vegetable and fruit were washed in 50 ml of sterile normal saline and filtrate was centrifuged then sediment was examined microscopically. Result showed that the overall prevalence of intestinal parasites microscopically was found to be 179/600(29.8%). Entamoeba histolytica cyst was reported in mothers 28 (62.2%) as twofold as in children 13 (28.9%), while in food handlers was recorded in 4(8.9%). Gardia Lamblia was more dominated in mothers 48(58.5%) as twice as seen in children 24 (29.3%), whereas in food a handler was noted in 10(12.2%). Taenia spp was found only in mothers 5 (71.4%) and children 2 (28.6%). Moreover, Ascaris lumbricoides was also seen in mothers 11(61.1%) and children 7 (38.9%). Among the examined vegetables and fruits samples, G.lamblia found to be the most dominated parasite 26 (66.7%), followed by E. histolytica 8 (20.5%) and A.lumbrucoides 5 (12.8%) respectively. In conclusion, the overall of the prevalence intestinal parasites was more pronounced among mothers and their children's. G. Lamblia and E. histolytica were the most predominated parasites seen microscopically among participants. Mothers should be examined periodically for their health status regarding intestinal parasites to increase the awareness prompt detection.