Research Article
David NA Aka, Gisèle
Abstract
Many different types of intestinal helminthes and protozoa infect man worldwide. Because of inadequate sanitary conditions, enteroparasitic infections constitute a serious public health problem in Côte d’Ivoire where infants are most concerned. Low-income populations, such girls or maids of households, which combine an important illiteracy rate, are especially vulnerable. Objective: This study was conducted to determine the prevalence of intestinal parasites among maids in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire. Materials and methods: A cross sectional community study was conducted among 88 households in a residential area of Abidjan, the main city of Côte d'Ivoire. Data from maids were collected by the use of a questionnaire. Stool of these workers were collected and examined for intestinal parasites by using simple smear and Ritchie’s technical method. Results: The overall prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections was 19.3%. Protozoa (14.7%) were more commonly found than Helminthes (4.5%). The maids were mainly infected with the fecal-oral transmitted parasites, with Entamoeba coli (13.6%). Necator americanus (2.3%) were the soil-transmitted helminthes frequently encountered. No multiple infections were noted. Conclusion: These results challenge the authorities on the necessity to improve the poor sanitary conditions of the maids, revealed by the importance of their infestations.