Prevalence of Necator americanus infection and risk factors among school-age children in Mirab Abaya District, South Ethiopia

Abstract

Objective: To determine prevalence of hookworms, species identification, risk factors and its contribution to anemia in school-age children. Methods: In 2013, a cross-sectional study of intestinal parasitic infections was conducted among 423 school-age children in three primary schools. Data on socio-demographic variables and risk factors were collected using pre-tested questionnaire. Stool samples were processed using Kato-Katz thick smear technique and hemoglobin values were determined by HemoCue on capillary blood. Finally, positive samples containing ova of hookworms were cultured by modified Harada-Mori technique for species identification. Results: Overall prevalence of hookworm infection was 10.4% (44/423). The predominant species identified was Necator americanus (43/44). Prevalence of anemia among the children was 4.5%. Hookworm infection was not significantly associated with anemia (P = 0.98), however, lack of footwear showed significant association with hookworm infection (AOR = 2.39, 95% confidence interval: 1.172-4.867; P = 0.02). Conclusions: We conclude hookworm infection is relatively high among schoolchildren. Although our result shows no significant association between the infection and anemia, the observed prevalence of hookworm and anemia warrants a serious health problem among study participants. Proper intervention methods that include health education, personal and environmental hygiene are recommended. If possible children should be encouraged to wear shoes regularly.