Intestinal parasites and associated factors among food handlers of food and drinking establishments in gambella town, south west Ethiopia

Abstract

Background:- Intestinal parasitic infection is distributed worldwide, especially in developing countries with low socio-economic status and poor living conditions. In Ethiopia, intestinal parasitic infection is a major public health problem throughout the country. However, the information on prevalence of intestinal parasites and the associated factors especially in food handlers in the area is limited. Objectives:- This study was aimed to assess the prevalence of intestinal parasite and associated factors among food handlers of food and drinking establishments in Gambella town. Methods:- Cross sectional study was used from March 1-26/2017 in Gambella Town, South Western Ethiopia. A total of 211 food handlers were enrolled in the study using lottery method. pretested structured questionnaire was used to collect data using interviewer administered technique. In addition to this, microscopy with concentration techniques was used to detect intestinal parasites from specimen. Data were analyzed using SPSS for windows version 21. Univariate, bivariate and multivariate analyses were done. Statistical tests was performed at 95% confidence intervals and a P-value < 0.05 were considered to declare a result as statistically significant. Result:- Of 205 stool specimens examined, 90(43.9%) were positive for one or more intestinal parasites. Seven species of intestinal parasites were identified and from single intestinal parasite infection, predominant parasite infections were Giardia lamblia 20(39.21%) followed by Entameoba histolytica 18(35.29%). There was positive association between presence of intestinal parasite infection and hand washing after using toilet with water only [AOR: 3.77, 95% CI; (1.34-10.58)] and hand washing before preparing food with water only [AOR: 3.97, 95% CI; (1.37-11.55)]. Conclusion:- This study revealed a high prevalence of intestinal parasites among food handlers in the study area. The study also identified factors such as habit of hand washing after toilet and before food preparation that were associated with intestinal parasitic infections. Therefore, Gambella town health office and other relevant stakeholders should give health education on "Good hand washing technique" after using toilet and before preparing food.