Abstract:
Background: In developing countries like Ethiopia intestinal parasites is one of the food-borne
diseases. Therefore, regular evaluation of food handlers for their health status, including screening
for the prevalence of parasites is important.
Objective: To assess prevalence and predictors of intestinal parasitic infections among food
handlers working in Wachemo University students’ cafeteria, Southern, Ethiopia.
Methods: A cross- sectional study design was conducted. Socio-demographic data and associated
risk factors were gathered using semi structured questionnaire. The prevalence of parasites was
assessed following standard parasitological method assisted by professionals. Data were coded,
cleaned and entered into Epi data 3.3.1 and then analyzed using SPSS Version 20. Statistical
significance was assessed using Binary and Multiple logistic regression model, odds ratios and
95% CIs, P values less than 0.05 was used as cut off point for statistical significance. Informed
consent was obtained and confidentiality assured.
Results: A total of 212 food-handlers working at cafeteria of Wachemo University were
participated in the study. The majority of study participants were females 135(63.7 %). Of the 212
stool specimens examined, about 63 (29.7 %) were found to be positive for different intestinal
parasites with the most prevalent parasite Ascaris lumbercoids 27 (12.7%) followed by
Hookworms 14(6.6%), Giardia lamblia 10(4.7%), Taenia saginata 5 (2.4%), and Mixed infection
7 (3.3%). Out of the 212 finger nail content specimens, 12 (5.6%) were positive for one or more
parasites. The prevalence of intestinal parasites was significantly associated with risk factors such
as sex, education, finger nail status and hand washing with soap and water after toilet use.
Conclusion: The present study revealed a moderate prevalence of intestinal parasites among food
handlers. Since most of the intestinal parasites are transmitted by the feco-oral route, food handlers
could be an important source of infection to the students and general population. So that giving
health education about personal hygiene for food handlers recommended.
