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A study on human intestinal helminths was conducted across eight primary schools in Nnewi South LGA, Anambra State. Stool samples were collected from 495 randomly selected pupils and examined using the direct smear technique to determine the prevalence of helminthic infections with predictor variables being regressed against outcome variables. A structured questionnaire was used to obtain biodata from the pupils to assess the association of intestinal helminths with socio-economic variables. The overall percentage of intestinal helminth-infected pupils had no statistical significance (p=0.1294). The probability of the outcome variable occurring rose by approximately 1.18 and 1.15 times for every unit higher in the predictor variable, as indicated by the positive coefficients for S1 and S4 schools (0.164821 and 0.136310). Only Trichuris infection exhibited a negative coefficient (-2.535188) among single infections and was significantly associated (p=0.0249). Ascaris + hookworm and Ascaris + Trichuris infections among the multiple infections revealed negative and positive coefficients (- 9.730077 and 1731.696, respectively), and they were strongly related (p=0.0001 and 0.0000). The number of infected students in (14-18) age range had a positive coefficient (0.020680) and was significantly (p=0.0441) associated with odds ratios of about 1.02, meaning that the odds of the dependent variables increase by about 1.02 times for every unit increase in the independent variable. The proportion of males with the infection displayed positive coefficients (0.980800) and was significantly (p=0.0052) associated with odds ratios of about 2.67, indicating that the likelihood of outcome variables occurring increases by approximately 2.67 times for every unit rise in the predictor variable. Conclusively, the findings observed could be attributed to the poor socio-economic status and poor personal hygiene arising from the lack of basic amenities such as pipe-borne water and other sanitary facilities in the study location. Adequate health education on sanitation, provision of portable drinking water, toilet facilities and mass deworming programmes are highly recommended in the area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The emergence and reemergence of zoonotic diseases from wildlife is a growing concern. In line with the One Health concept, which recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health, it is essential to consider all these factors to achieve optimal health outcomes globally. This study investigated the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in Papio anubis (olive baboon) troops living in close proximity to humans. The Yankari Game Reserve, a wildlife park in Bauchi State, Nigeria, has diverse wildlife populations, including P. anubis. One hundred and fifty-one faecal samples from P. anubis were collected and examined using formalin ethyl acetate sedimentation and centrifugal flotation techniques, revealing the presence of ten (10) species of intestinal parasites, accounting for an overall parasite prevalence of 145 (96.03 %) in the observed population. The most prevalent parasite species among the P. anubis population was Entamoeba histolytica, with a prevalence of 106 (70.2%), followed by Entamoeba coli with a prevalence of 97 (64.2%). Anclyostoma spp. was the most common helminth species, with a prevalence of 73 (48.3%), followed by Strongyloides stercoralis with a prevalence of 58 (38.4%). The high prevalence of potentially pathogenic parasites, such as Anclyostoma spp. and E. histolytica, among the P. anubis population is of public health importance and underscores the need for further research to examine humans in close proximity with these animals for the presence of gastrointestinal parasites and compare for species similarities. The findings of this research may help to determine the likelihood of cross-species transmission which is critical to safeguarding both humans and animals as they share the same environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fish is an important and cheap protein source for human consumption in developing countries. It is the second most popular source of protein diet in both rural and urban communities in Nigeria. Fisheries resources contribute about 5.40% to the nation's gross domestic product (GDP) through income generation, employment, food security, and foreign exchange earnings. Despite the significant contributions of fisheries to the Nigerian economy, the aquatic ecosystem is prone to pollution from human activities which increases the chances of transmission of parasitic infections, which are detrimental to aquatic and human life. The present study assessed the prevalence of gastrointestinal helminths of tilapia fish from different market sources in the Maiduguri metropolitan council of Borno State, Northeastern Nigeria. Samples of fresh Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) fish (n= 125), comprising 50 juveniles and 75 adults, were screened for gastrointestinal helminths using standard parasitological methods. Twenty-nine (23.2%) harboured at least one helminth parasite. Of the 29 positive individual fish samples, 16% (n=20), 4% (n=5), 2.4% (n=3), and 0.8% (n=1) were infected by Acanthocephala, Cestode, Nematode, and Trematodes, respectively. The infection rate was higher in adults (26%) than juveniles (18%) and in females (23.5%) than males (22.8%). Fish samples from Baga markets showed higher infection rates than the other two market sources. Sex, age, and location were not significantly associated with parasite recovery rate (p>0.05). The study concluded that Nile tilapia fish sold in Maiduguri metropolis were infected with different groups of helminths, underscoring public health risks to farmers, sellers, and consumers. Therefore, fish farmers should regularly consult veterinarians for advice on good fish management practices and observe proper hygienic handling of harvested fish at the farm level, during transportation to fish markets, and processing. The public should thoroughly clean and properly cook fish for human consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Infectious diseases and malnutrition are some of the issues in Sokoto, Nigeria. Cattle remain significantly important in providing health and economic benefits to the people. However, cattle productions are affected by zoonoses, and in turn endangering the health of people. The current study will help in many ways and will invariably strengthen the bond between veterinary and medical workers. This study investigated the prevalence of zoonotic helminthes in cattle slaughtered at Gwadabawa abattoir of Sokoto State, Nigeria. About 5g of fecal samples were collected from 108 cattle and examined for presence of the parasites. Helminthes eggs and oocysts were detected using formal-ether concentration techniques. The results revealed an overall prevalence of 10.2% (11/108) for zoonotic parasites, from two genera Fasciola 7.4% (8/108) and Taenia 2.8% (3/108). Males had the higher prevalence 12% (6/50) of helminths infection than females 8.6% (5/58). Older cattle appeared to be more infected with 12.5% (5/48) of the infection compared to younger ones 8.3% (5/60). There were no significant (p<0.05) differences between infection and sex or ages of the cattle. Significantly (P<0.05), the prevalence based on breed showed that mixed breed cattle had the highest prevalence 17.1% (6/35) followed by Red Fulani 8.3% (4/48) and Sokoto Gudali 5.3% (1/19). Therefore, it is imperative to advocate for the provision of sanitary facilities at the abattoir, and among vendors; and the public should subject meat to proper preparation methods to minimize helminthes infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was carried out to evaluate the presence of intestinal parasitic infection among cattle reared in Owo, Ondo state. Seventy two (72) fecal samples were randomly collected from cattle. Characteristics of each cattle such as sex, age and body condition scores were noted. Fecal samples were collected per rectum from the selected animals and were subjected to physiological normal saline, Iodine and formal ether concentration techniques. . The overall prevalence of gastrointestinal helminth parasites was 94.4%. Of the 72 cattle screened, 68 were infected, with 16.7% mixed infections and 77.6% single infection with high prevalence of Toxocara vitulorum (26.3%), Strongyloides papillosus (20.8%), Taenia saginata (12.5%), Cooperia spp (9.7%), Haemonchus contortus (8.3%) respectively. Common parasites in mixed infections were Toxocara vitulorum, Strongyloides papillosus, and Paramphistomum spp. Hence, in order to mitigate these issues, it is crucial to promote the implementation of suitable anthelminthic treatment plans and control measures. This includes advocating for comprehensive programs that address parasite control, effective management of pastures, and maintaining a clean environment for cattle. It is equally important to raise public health awareness and emphasize the significance of these measures. Additionally, there is a pressing requirement to monitor gastrointestinal parasites in cattle as a means to enhance animal production and safeguard public health in Nigeria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The distribution and prevalence of gastrointestinal helminths in African catfish (Clarias gariepinus) from Ajiwa reservoir, Katsina State, Nigeria was investigated between March and August 2021, to understand the health status of the fish, potential risk to their existence and safety of consumption of fish from the water body. Methods: A total of 162 live African catfish species were collected from artisanal fishermen from three major landing sites on the reservoir. The fish were identified and separated based on sex before being transferred live to the Fish Biology laboratory, Federal University Dutsin-Ma, Katsina State for further evaluation. The fish were dissected and the guts were removed for examination of the gastrointestinal helminths. Results: A total of 149 helminths were collected from the 132 infected fish. The helminths belong to nematode and cestode groups with nematode dominating with three species and 59.06% abundance. Capillaria species, a nematode was the dominant species representing 29.53% of the helminths from the water body. A higher amount (57.72%) of the helminths were recovered from the intestine. The prevalence of the parasitic worms was affected by sex (p=0.001) with females having a higher prevalence (91.76%). There was no significant difference due to the sampling location (p=0.076) and length of the fish (p=0.298). However, weight showed a significant association with the prevalence (p=0.019) and the prevalence decreased with an increase in the size of the fish. Significance: Although the distribution and abundance of the gastrointestinal helminths in the Ajiwa reservoir can be said to be low relative to the number of fish examined, however, the prevalence is high and something of concern. Sex and weight are important factors strongly associated with the prevalence of parasitic helminths in the reservoir. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Helminths are worm-like parasites that live in the gut of animals or humans that feed on the host to obtain nourishment and protection, sometimes causing morbidity and mortality if not treated. This study was conducted to determine the prevalence of Gastrointestinal Helminths Species in Cattle at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Ogun State. Faecal sedimentation methods were carried out to detect the presence of parasitic infections. Faecal egg and oocyst counts were carried out using the McMaster technique. A total of 72 (100%) fecal samples consisting of 52 (72.2%) females and 20 (27.80%) males were examined. McMaster has an overall prevalence of 40(55.5%), and 2 (2.8%) Strongyloides and Monienzia sp. while sedimentation techniques show the prevalence of 38(52.8%) and 1(1.4%) Paramphistomium sp. Trichuris and Haemonchus sp. No significant differences (p < 0.05) in the occurrence of parasitic helminths in the samples with respect to locations and techniques used. Fecal samples were examined among the sexes, females had 2(10.0%) and age group >18 years with 2(3.2%) co-infected with helminths. Across the breed, white Fulani had 2(3.2%) mixed infections compared to other breeds. The study revealed that GIT parasitic helminths infections prevalence is common among white Fulani cattle probably due to open grazing and scavenging. There is a need to sensitize nomads on deworming to mitigate the GIT infections and improve animal health status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The parasitological and molecular studies of intestinal helminth among women in Obi and Oju LGAs, Benue State were investigated. Stool samples were analysed using the formal-ether concentration technique for the detection of parasites. Well-structured questionnaires were used to elicit socio-demographic data as well as knowledge of the women towards helminth infection. Representative samples were afterwards processed molecularly using PCR technology. The parasites recovered were Entamoeba histolytica, Ascaris lumbricoides, Hookworm, Strongyloides stercoralis, Taenia spp., Trichuris trichiura and Trichomonas vaginalis. An overall prevalence of 9.93% was obtained for helminth infection. Women within the age group of 15-20 years recorded the highest prevalence (27.77%). Civil servants and single women recorded the highest infection rates (19.52% and 23.82% respectively) while in terms of education, those with no formal education recorded the highest rate of infection (27.52%). Furthermore, the majority of the women were unaware of intestinal helminths and the specific types (85.53%). There was also a significant relationship between education, age, and rate of infection (P<0.05). It was therefore concluded that helminth infection among women in Oju and Obi LGA is comparatively low. The amplification of genes confirms the presence of Plasmodium falciparum, Schistosoma haematobium, Trichomonas vaginalis, Ascaris lumbricoides and Entamoeba histolytica. The detection of T. vaginalis by the polymerase chain reaction buttresses the sensitivity of PCR as a diagnostic tool. There is a need for enlightenment campaigns against helminth infections in Oju and Obi. Efforts of the government are needed to ensure the provision of efficient molecular facilities for accurate diagnosis of infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies on parasites in fish have been a great concern for over a decade now due to disease conditions, overall nutritive devaluation and huge economic loss that resulted from parasitic infections. Added to the potential of infected fish to be a source of infections to man and other animals. The present study is, however, designed to ascertain the parasitic infection in fish from Asa Dam, Kwara State, Nigeria. A total number of 196 fish belonging to 10 families and 18 species were examined for helminth infection with an overall prevalence rate of 31.10%. Parasites were recovered from the skin, gills, body cavity, intestine, and liver of the fish host. Trematode was the most prevalent parasite group found in the fish host and represented 79.5% of the isolated parasites, followed by Cestode (7.14%), and Acanthocephalan was the least group (0.4%) recovered. Most of the Trematodes were recovered from T. zillii and H. fasciatus (109 and 56 respectively), while C. anguillaris, C. senegalensis, C. gariepinus and C. obscura have no cases of trematode. 2.55% of the cestodes were recovered from C. gariepinus while the overall index of infection was significantly high in T. zillii (48.90%) and H. fasciatus (40.44%). The overall prevalence of parasites examined in relation to sex indicates that males had 33.7% females had 28.4% prevalence accordingly with no significant difference (P > 0.05). This finding indicates that there is a high parasitic load as evident by the infection rate on the examined fishes, as such adequate measures should be put in place to reduce and prevent the parasites from spreading. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Schistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminthiases (STH) are two parasitic diseases mainly affecting school children. The purpose of this study was to estimate the current prevalence and infection intensity, in addition to the associations of these infections with age and sex, in children aged 4–17 years living in Osun State, Nigeria. From each participant (250 children), one urine and one stool sample were taken for the study, for the microscopic detection of eggs or larvae in faeces by means of the Kato–Katz method and eggs in filtrated urine. The overall prevalence of urinary schistosomiasis was 15.20%, with light infection. The intestinal helminthic species identified (and their prevalence) were S. stercoralis (10.80%), S. mansoni (8%), A. lumbricoides (7.20%), hookworm (1.20%), and T. trichiura (0.4%), all of them being classified as light infections. Single infections (67.95%) are more frequent than multiple infections (32.05%). With this study, schistosomiasis and STH are still endemic in Osun State, but with a light to moderate prevalence and light infection intensity. Urinary infection was the most prevalent, with higher prevalence in children over 10 years. The >10 years age group had the highest prevalence for all of the intestinal helminths. There were no statistically significant associations between gender and age and urogenital or intestinal parasites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Intestinal helminth infections in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive individuals have been widely reported to play an important role in HIV progression. Aim: The study provides data on the prevalence of intestinal helminths among HIV-positive individuals. Methods: A total of 169 consenting HIV-positive individuals were recruited for the study. Stool specimens from the HIV-positive individuals were analyzed for the presence of intestinal helminths using wet mount and formalin-ether concentration methods. Results: The overall prevalence of infection was 21.9% with 5 types of parasites detected. The Intestinal helminth that occurred with the highest prevalence was Ascaris lumbricoides (37.8%), followed by Hookworm (16.2%), Taenia spp. (16.2%) and Strongyloides stercoralis (13.5%) with Trichuris trichiura (8.1%) being the least prevalent. However, there was more single (91.9%) than mixed infections (8.1 %). Concerning socio-demographic factors, there was no significant association (p > 0.05) between intestinal helminths and gender (X2 (1, N = 169) = 1.239, p = 0.266), although, the parasites were found to be more prevalent among males than females. Infection was reported in 16.1% of those on highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) and 53.8% of those that were HAART-naïve indicating that there was a significant association (X2 (1, N = 169) = 18.346, p = 0.001**) between intestinal helminth and HAART status. Conclusions: This study reported a low burden of intestinal helminths among HIV-infected individuals on HAART while a higher burden was recorded in the HAART naïve patients. Regular check-up for intestinal parasites, good personal hygiene, and effective therapy for HIV/AIDS positive persons is hereby advocated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The objective of the study is to determine the occurrence of intestinal parasites among human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive and negative groups. Materials and Methods: A case--control study was conducted in four semi-urban areas in Nasarawa State. The study enrolled 422 participants. Stool samples were collected and examined for the presence of intestinal parasites. Blood sample was collected to investigate for HIV infection. Results: The overall prevalence of intestinal infections among HIV-positive individuals was 37.7% (78/207). For geohelminth infections, HIV-positive individuals were more commonly infected by hookworm at a rate of 9.7% (20/207). For Protozoa infections, HIV-positive groups were identified more with Giardia lamblia, at a rate of 8.2% (17/207). The binary logistic regression showed that factors significantly associated with parasite infections among HIV-positive individuals included being under 43 years of age (odds ratio [OR] = 2.192, confidence interval [CI]: 0.082, 3.736) and subjects with diarrhea (OR = 1.521, CI: 0.112, 2.891) for geohelminth parasite. While in the case of Protozoa infections, parasitic infections are higher among study subjects with diarrhea (OR = 1.767, CI: 0.111, 3.009). Conclusion: HIV-positive individuals are more susceptible to coinfections with hookworm (geohelminth) and G. lamblia (Protozoa), which are more prevalent among those with poor personal hygiene habits. This indicates a need for an integrated approach to hygiene promotion, surveillance, and treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the helminth parasites of animals and management practices at the University of Ilorin Zoological garden. Faecal samples were collected and analysed according to standard parasitological techniques while information on management practices was obtained using a structured questionnaire. The overall prevalence of helminths was 20.7%. Three parasites namely, Ascaris spp., Trichostrongylus spp. and Enterobius spp. were identified. Of the 92 animal faecal samples examined, common jackal (21.1%), crested porcupine (42.1%), Lioness (15.8%), and mongoose (21.1%) were positive (p<0.05). Only mammals were positive for intestinal helminth while Aves were not infected (p>0.05). Animals fed three times a week had higher helminth infection (57.9%) when compared with animals fed daily (42.1%). Cages cleaned daily had more helminth parasite contamination (78.9%) compared to those cleaned weekly (21.1%, p<0.05). Also, animals dewormed on monthly basis harboured fewer intestinal helminths (5.3%), compared to those dewormed every three months (78.9%, p>0.05). Surprisingly, animals in enclosures with cemented floors had the highest helminth infection (78.9%) compared to those living in enclosures with uncemented floor (p<0.05). The overall prevalence of helminths is low in this study; therefore, zoo workers should take more cognizance of the routes of parasite transmission, since the faecal-oral route is the primary means through which animals acquired infection. There is a need for improved management practices to curb the spread of helminth infection. This will invariably ensure the sustainability of zoological gardens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil transmitted helminths (STH) are major public health problem affecting the growth of children. 360 stool samples were collected and analyzed using Formol-ether concentration technique. Daksiri Primary School had the highest prevalence with 22(6.11 %), while the least was Uba Primary School with 13(3.61 %). There was no significant difference (p>0.05) in STH among schools. Ascaris lumbricoides had the highest prevalence with 52(14.44 %), followed by Trichuris trichiura with 28(7.78 %), while the least was hookworm 18(5.00 %). In relation to sex, males had the higher prevalence 56(15.56 %) than females with 42(11.67 %). There was no significant difference (p>0.05) between infection and sex. In relation to age group, the age groups 7 – 9 years had the highest prevalence of 42(11.67 %), while 3 – 6 years had the least prevalence with 23(6.39 %). There was no significant difference (p>0.05) in relation to STH by age groups. Those whose parents are civil servants had the least prevalence of 16(4.44 %), while those whose parents are farmers had the highest prevalence of 58(16.11 %). There was no significant difference on parents occupation at (p>0.05). Children, who used water closet system, had the least prevalence of 18(5.00 %), while those who used pit toilet recorded highest prevalence of 51(14.17 %). There was no significant difference (p>0.05) between infection and methods of stool disposal. There is need to promote child health, through health education, personal hygiene. Deworming should be sustained as control against outbreak of soil transmitted helminthes among school aged children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gastrointestinal parasites of dogs have been incriminated in cases of morbidity and mortality; hence, this study was undertaken to investigate the presence and distribution of gastrointestinal parasites in dogs presented to different veterinary clinics in Abeokuta, Ogun State. One hundred and twenty faecal samples were collected between February to September 2018 from three different veterinary clinics into universal sample bottles that were properly labeled with the age, sex and breed. Samples were processed with Mini-FLOTAC® kit using salt and sugar solution at a specific gravity of 1.3. Data were analyzed with descriptive statistics and Chi square test was used to determine the association between variables. Of the 120 dogs screened, 37(30.8%) were positive for one or more gastrointestinal helminths: males had a prevalence of 24(20%) while females had a prevalence of 13(10.8%). Prevalence of 29(24.1%) and 8(6.7%) was reported in young and adult dogs respectively. Of the different breeds of dogs sampled; the Nigerian local breed had the highest prevalence 21(17.5%) of gastrointestinal helminths, followed by German shepherd 8(6.7%), Rottweiller 5(4.2%), Boerboel 1(0.8%) Samoyed 1(0.8%) and Pitbull 1(0.8%). A statistically significant association (p<0.05) was recorded between gastrointestinal helminth infection and breed while no statistically significant association (p>0.05) was observed between age, sex and gastrointestinal helminth infection. Six different genera of helminths were recorded in this study: Ancylostoma caninum (17.5%), Toxocara canis (14.1%), Toxascaris leonina (2.5%), Dipylidium caninum (2.5%), Trichuris vulpis (1.7%) and Taenia spp (1.7%). The findings from this study indicated moderate prevalence of gastrointestinal helminth infection. The presence of Ancylostoma caninum, Toxocara canis and Dipylidium caninum infection in this study raises concern about the zoonotic potential of these parasites due to the close relationship between man and dogs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The negative impact of soil-transmitted helminths (STHs) in Nigeria is enormous, and it poses serious public health issues and concerns. This study was undertaken to investigate the impact of health education intervention on reinfection of STHs in pupils of rural schools of Kogi East, North Central Nigeria. A total of 10 schools with the highest prevalence of STHs at baseline were selected from the 45 schools assessed during the baseline survey. These 10 schools were randomly paired into two groups of 5 schools per group. Five schools were dewormed and given health education (DHE) intervention while the other 5 schools were dewormed only (DO) without health education. Reassessment of schools for reinfection was carried out for a period of 12 months. Data obtained were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Student's t -test was used to make comparison between interventions in the incidence of infections. Analysis was carried out at p < 0.05. Reinfection with STHs was observed from the 28th week (7th month) of both interventions with incidence of 0.29 (2 pupils) and 1.00 (7 pupils) in DO and DHE schools, respectively. In the 36th week (9th month), incidence observed in schools given DHE was 0.56 (5 pupils) while incidence of 0.89 (8 pupils) was observed in DO schools, and there was no significant difference (t = − 1.000 , p = 0.347) between the interventions. At 48th week (12th month), there was no significant difference (t = − 0.547 , p = 0.599) in incidence between the DHE and DO schools with incidence of 1.00 (12 pupils) and 0.83 (10 pupils), respectively. Hookworms had an incidence of 0.78 (7 pupils) at DHE schools and 0.56 (5 pupils) at DO schools in the 36th week while an incidence of 0.92 (11 pupils) and 0.83 (10 pupils) at DHE and DO schools, respectively, in the 48th week. Ascaris lumbricoides was only observed in DHE schools in a pupil with an incidence of 0.11 (1 pupil) and 0.08 (1 pupil) at 36th and 48th weeks. There was no significant difference in the prevalence of the parasites between DO and DHE intervention groups (p > 0.05). School-based health education intervention had no significant impact on STH incidence in pupils of rural schools in Kogi East. Community-based deworming should be encouraged alongside improvement in the water, sanitation, and hygiene infrastructures and practices at both school and home. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parasitism affects output in pig production and introduces high risks of diseases. This study investigated ectoparasites and endo-helminths of pigs in Abakaliki and Izzi Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Ebonyi State, Nigeria. One hundred and sixty eight (168) pigs were examined for both ecto- and faecal parasites. Snowball and simple random sampling techniques were employed in the study. Faecal samples collected using appropriate procedures were processed and examined using concentration techniques. Collection and processing of ectoparasites followed standard parasitological procedures. The recovered parasites were identified using morphological characteristics and standard guides. Data collected were analysed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square. Statistical significance was established at p<0.05. Overall, 44 pigs (26.1 %) were infested with ectoparasites. Pigs were infested most with Ctenocephalides canis (9.52 %) and least with Haemaphysalis species (1.79 %). There was significant difference (p = 0.042) in prevalence of C. canis with respect to sex. Sixty eight pigs (40.48 %) were infected with faecal parasites. Ascaris suum had the highest overall prevalence (17.86 %) while Taenia solium had the least (1.79 %). There was no significant difference between faecal parasite infection and age of pigs (p>0.05). However, a significant association (p = 0.026) was established between sex of pigs and infection with Fasciola hepatica. Thirteen (7.74 %) and 14(8.33 %) of the pigs were infested and infected respectively with more than one parasite taxa. Parasitism increased with advancement in age of pigs. Adequate utilization of veterinary services, good sanitation and proper training of farmers are recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The enteric parasites of quails in Umuahia were investigated to determine their prevalence. Three hundred faecal samples, collected on voiding, were screened, with two hundred and five of them from deep litter and ninety-five from cages. Faecal analysis was conducted using the flotation and Mcmaster techniques. The overall prevalence of helminth infection was 167(55.6%) while that for coccidian oocysts was 89(29.6%). The prevalence of the nematode parasites detected in this study includes Ascaridia spp. 63(21.0%), Heterakis spp. -41(13.6%), Capillaria spp. -33(11.0%), Syngamus spp. 20(6.6%) and Strongyloides spp. 10(3.3%). The age-wise prevalence of gastrointestinal nematodes in young and adult quails was 41(42.2%) and 126(62.0%) respectively. Also, 33(34.0%) and 56(27.5%) young and adult quails were infected with coccidian oocysts, respectively. Enteric nematode parasites found in the cage managed and deep litter managed quails were 31(32.6%) and 136(66.3%) respectively. Also, 63(30.7%) and 26(27.3%) deep litter and cage managed quails respectively were infected with coccidian oocytes. It was concluded that gastrointestinal nematode and coccidian infections of quails are common in quails in Umuahia area regardless of the management system. This necessitates appropriate sustainable control measures to enhance a profitable poultry enterprise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Helminth infections, including hookworms and Schistosomes, can cause severe disability and death. Infection management and control would benefit from identification of biomarkers for early detection and prognosis. While animal models suggest that Trefoil Factor Family proteins (TFF2 and TFF3) and interleukin-33 (IL-33) -driven type 2 immune responses are critical mediators of tissue repair and worm clearance in the context of hookworm infection, very little is known about how they are modulated in the context of human helminth infection. We measured TFF2, TFF3, and IL-33 levels in serum from patients in Brazil infected with Hookworm and/or Schistosomes, and compared them to endemic and non-endemic controls. TFF2 was specifically elevated by Hookworm infection in females, not Schistosoma or co-infection. This elevation was correlated with age, but not worm burden. TFF3 was elevated by Schistosoma infection and found to be generally higher in females. IL-33 was not significantly altered by infection. To determine if this might apply more broadly to other species or regions, we measured TFFs and cytokine levels (IFNγ, TNFα, IL-33, IL-13, IL-1β, IL-17A, IL-22, and IL-10) in both the serum and urine of Nigerian school children infected with S. haematobium. We found that serum levels of TFF2 and 3 were reduced by infection, likely in an age dependent manner. In the serum, only IL-10 and IL-13 were significantly increased, while in urine IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-13, IL-1β, IL-22, and IL-10 were significantly increased in by infection. Taken together, these data support a role for TFF proteins in human helminth infection. Author summary: Billions of people are infected with parasitic helminths across the globe, especially in resource poor regions. These infections can result in severe developmental delay, disability, and death. Adequate management of helminth infection would benefit from the identification of host biomarkers in easily obtained samples (e.g. serum or urine) that correlate to infection state. Our goal was to determine if specific proteins involved in tissue repair and immune modulation are altered by infection with specific helminth species in Brazil (hookworm and S. mansoni species of blood fluke) or Nigeria (S. haematobium species of blood fluke). One of these proteins, Trefoil Factor 2 (TFF2), was elevated in the serum of hookworm infected women from Brazil, while another, TFF3 is higher in women than men, but also increased by S. mansoni blood fluke infection. In contrast, both TFFs were decreased in the serum of Nigerian children infected by S. haematobium, while many pro-inflammatory cytokines were increased in the urine, where the eggs emerge from host tissue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Over 20 million preschool-age children (PSAC) in Nigeria require periodic chemotherapy (PC) for soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections. Persistently low coverage for this age group threatens the World Health Organization (WHO) 2030 target for eliminating STH infections. Current strategies for targeting PSAC have been largely ineffective. Hence, PSAC are mostly dewormed by their parents/caregivers. However, little is known of the perception and attitude of parents/caregivers of PSAC to deworming in this setting.Methods: A mixed methods design, combining a community-based interviewer-administered questionnaire-survey (n = 433) and focus group discussions (FGD) (n = 43) was used to assess the perceptions and attitudes of mothers to periodic deworming of preschool children aged 2-5 years in Abakpa-Nike, Enugu, Nigeria.Results: Coverage of periodic deworming in PSAC is 42% (95% CI: 37.3-46.8%). There is significant difference in the specific knowledge of transmission of STH (AOR = 0.62, 95% CI: 0.48-0.81, p = 0.000), complication of STH infections (AOR = 0.77, 95% CI: 0.61-0.98, p = 0.034), accurate knowledge of deworming frequency (AOR = 0.41, 95% CI: 0.18-0.90, p = 0.026), and knowledge of PC drug, mebendazole (AOR = 0.28, 95% CI: 0.09-0.90, p = 0.031), and pyrantel (AOR = 8.03, 95% CI: 2.22-29.03, p = 0.001) between mothers who periodically deworm their PSAC and those who do not. There is no significant difference in specific knowledge of the symptoms of STH infections (AOR = 0.76, 95% CI: 0.57-1.02, p = 0.069) and PC drug, Albendazole (AOR = 1.00, 95% CI: 0.46-2.11, p = 0.972). FGD revealed misconceptions that are rooted in stark ignorance of the disease. Overall attitude to deworming is positive and favourable.Conclusions: Poor coverage of periodic deworming for STH infections in PSAC in this setting are primarily driven by poor specific knowledge of the risks and burden of the infection. Focused health education on the burden and transmission of STH infections could complement existing strategies to improve periodic deworming of PSAC in this setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parasites of fish constitute one of the major problems to fish health. Parasites of fish have been a great concern since they often cause disease conditions in fishes. This study described the parasitic faunas of eight fresh water bodies in Edo state (Ikpoba river, Ogba river, Ujogba river, Niger river at Illushi, Obe river, Gelegele river, Niger river at Agenebode and Osomegbe river). The duration of fish sampling was from October, 2017 to November, 2017.The fish samples (whole catch sourced from fishermen) were collected for identification, morphometric analysis and examination for the presence of parasites. One-way ANOVA and Tukey Honest Test were used to compare the data among size classes at the level of p <0.05. Three orders (Lepidosirenformes, Siluriformes and Polyteriformes), eight families (Protopteridae, Clariddidae, Channiddae, Polypterididae, Melapteridae, Clarotidae, Cichlidae and Lorcariidae) and fourteen genera were examined. The study had an overall prevalence of 25.34%. The highest prevalence of fish parasitic infection was recorded in Niger river along Agenebode. Overall, parasite taxa recovered were nematodes (65.50%), trematodes (27.00%), cestodes (4.27%) and acanthcephalans (3.27%). The most infected fish species was Clarias gariepenus (13.77%). The helminth taxa (nematodes) had the highest prevalence of parasites (65.50%). The largest number of parasites isolated was Camallanus cotti (30.43%) and Procamallanus laevionchus (17.39%). This study showed river Niger at Agenebode with most parasitic prevalence, nematodes as the most prevalent parasitic taxa and Clarias gariepenus as the most infected fish species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intestinal parasitic infection is one of the major health issues and poses major public health problem in developing countries particularly in Sub -Saharan countries including Nigeria in particular. A cross sectional study of intestinal parasites and Candida albicans infections was undertaken among pregnant women attending antenatal clinic in Ilie in order to determine the prevalence and intensity of the infections. The intensity of infection was classified into light, moderate or high according to World Health Organisation (WHO) thresholds. A total of 172 pregnant women aged between 15 to 54 years were recruited for this study. Fresh stool and high vaginal swabs samples were collected and processed according to parasitological and mycological procedures. The overall prevalence of intestinal parasites in this study was (32.6%) with four difference species of intestinal parasites namely, Entamoeba histolytica (15.7 %), Hookworm (8.7 %) Ascaris lumbricoides (6.4%) and Trichuris trichiura (1.7%). In all, Candida albicans had the highest prevalence of 22.7%. C. albicans/E. histolytica co-infection was the highest prevalence (9.3%) while the least co-infection was C. albicans/A. lumbricoides (4.1%). Age group 15-24 years had the highest prevalence (58.1%) and the least was age group 35-44 years (21.1%). There was no statistical significance between the age group and the infection (P = 0.274). Most of the pregnant women had intestinal parasites in secondgravidae (46.4%) and in 1st trimester of gestation period (46.4%) (P = 0.371), while Candida albicans was in secondgravidae (48.7%) and in 3rd trimester of gestation period (46.2%) (P = 0.629). Out of the 39 (22.7%) pregnant women who were positive for Candida albicans, 32 (82.1%) were co-infected with any intestinal parasites and the difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.152). Therefore all pregnant women should undergo a routine examination for intestinal parasites and Candida albicans during antenatal visit. Health education should be introduced in order to highlight the principles of basic personal hygiene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Helminthiases are regarded as important public health problem in tropical Africa. This study conducted from November 2016 to April 2017 evaluated the helminths status of consented 372 pre-school and school-age (4 – 14years) children from three primary schools in Ovbiogie, Oluku and Ekiadolor community, Ovia NorthEast Local Government Area, Edo State, Nigeria. Structured questionnaires were administered to obtain demographic data and Kato Katz techniques used for laboratory analysis of the stool samples. The overall prevalence of infections was 34.1%, corresponding to 17.7% of Ascaris lumbricoides, 11.2% of hookworm and 5.1% of Trichuris trichiura. Males were more infected (35.1%) than females (33.1%). Age group 4 – 7 years had the highest prevalence of helminthes, while age 8-10years had the least prevalence. The commonest combination of helminthes observed was that of A. lumbricoides and hookworm with rate of 2.4%. Parents occupation notably farming (with the highest mean intensity of 145.3 ± 53.9) greatly influence helminthiasis in the study area. Open defecation (12.3%) was significantly associated with hookworm infection. Mean intensity for A. lumbricoides (131.2 ± 49.5) and hookworm (80.0 ± 38.5 epg) infections was higher in females than males. The mean intensities of infections varied among the different age groups (P<0.05). The highest mean intensity for A. lumbricoides (137 ± 78.3 epg), hookworm (73.6 ± 27.9 epg) and T. trichiura (57.6 ± 21.4epg) was among pupils who used pit latrines. This study has demonstrated that helminthiasis is of public health importance among school age children in Ovia North East Local Government Area of Edo State, Nigeria. There is need for health education intervention, periodic deworming, adequate toilet facilities and adequate environmental sanitation for effective control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Helminth parasitc infections were investigated in 150 Anurans collected in parts of the Northern Guinea Savannah during the dry and wet seasons of 2016. The Anurans that were investigated included Amietophrynus regularis, Kassina senegalensis, Afrixalus vittiger, Xenopus tropicalis, Xenopus fischbergi, Pyxiecephalus cf. edulis, Hoplobatrachus occipitalis, Amnirana galamensis and Ptychadena pumilio. Overall prevalence of helminth parasites was 64% (94/150). Seven species of helminths belonging to three taxonomic classes were recovered: Monogenea 4%, Trematoda 19.33% and Nematoda 40.67% were identified. Eupolystoma alluaudi (30%) was the only monogenean recorded from the bladder of S. regularis. Tematodes found were Diplodischus fishthalicus (53.49%) and Haematoloechus micrurus (67.45%) from the rectum and lungs of H. occipitalis, respectively. Nematodes included Camallanus microcephalus from the oesophagus and small intestine of X. fischbergi ( 62.96%) and X. tropicalis (100 %), respectively, Camallanus dimitrovi (25.58%) from the small intestine and rectum of H. occipitalis, an unidentified nematode from the oesophagus and small intestine of X. fischbergi (1.85%) and X. tropicalis (33.33%), and an Aplectana (85.00%%) species from the small intestine and rectum of S. regularis. Except for Eupolystoma alluaudi, the infestation level was generally low. Parasite prevalence was higher during the wet (39.33%) than dry (24.67%) season and the difference was not significant (p = 0.17). The prevalence and infection intensity were lower than those reported from anurans in southern biotopes of Nigeria. The occurrence of Camallanus macrocephalus is a new record for Nigeria, while X. fischbergi and X. tropicalis are new host records for C. macrocephalus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fish is clearly regarded as the cheapest source of protein for man and other livestock, but fish farmers are constrained by massive mortality of fry and fingerlings due to helminth parasite invasion. Prevalence of helminthic parasite infection of two (2) commercially important and easily-culturable fish species of Nigeria (Clarias gariepinus and Tilapia zillii) was studied in relation to sex and fish age (length and weight). 51 samples of Claris gariepinus and 34 samples of Tilapia zillii in Chanchaga River were caught by the use of a trawling net over a period of 24 months (September 2014 and October 2016). Four (4) classes of parasites were encountered between Clarias gariepinus and Tilapia zillii as the two species were infected with similar parasites: Monogenea, Cestode, Nematodes, and Acanthocephala, although nematode parasites were by far the most abundant. The infection rates of both Clarias gariepinus and Tilapia zillii with helminth parasites were high as their percentage infection was 88.2% and 91.2, respectively. Females were slightly more infected than the males for both fish species, although the difference was not significant (P < 0.05). Fishes of higher lengths and weight for both Clarias gariepinus and Tilapia zillii were more prevalent to parasitic infection (higher % infection) than their counterparts with lower lengths and weights (lower % infection). There were no striking differences between Clarias gariepinus and Tilapia zillii in terms of parasite representation, sex, and age parameters. This phenomenon may not be unconnected to the fact that both fish species shared similar environmental conditions, dietary composition, and feeding habits. This study recommends a change of feeding habits and dietary composition with age and immune system state in order to reduce the infestation of parasites with the goal of increasing field yield efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gastrointestinal (GI) helminths infection is a major limiting factor of pig production, which poses a public health challenge and increases cost of production. There are also problems in the diagnosis and effective health management of pigs in Nigeria. A cross sectional study of 10 different pig farms was carried out in Ibadan to determine the prevalence of GI helminths infection and the associated factors. The breed, age, sex and body condition score of each screened pig were documented. Faecal sample was collected directly from the rectum and processed with MiniFLOTAC method, using zinc sulphate floatation solution. Two hundred and seventy-five (275) pigs were screened and 73 (26.5%) were positive for GI helminths, namely: Strongyles spp, Strongyloides ransomi, Ascaris suum and Trichuris suis. Statistical significance taking p-value to be < 0.05 was observed between overall GI helminths prevalence and (farm, age) while GI helminths prevalence was not significantly (p>0.05) related to breed, sex and body condition score. The prevalence of GI helminths in pigs obtained in this study provides an updated information on the status of GI helminths in pigs raised in Ibadan. It is therefore necessary that concerted and focused effort on the part of the farmers and the government be made to completely stamp out GI helminths disease completely in pigs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Helminth infections are one of the greatest causes of productive and reproductive loss in animals and man, and in some cases, it results in heavy mortalities. This study was conducted to determine the prevalence, species diversity, patterns of infections and risk factors associated with helminth infections of cattle in Ilorin, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: A total of 478 fecal samples were collected from abattoirs and cattle farms over a year period (March, 2018-February, 2019). Fecal samples were visually examined then observed using simple flotation and formalinethyl acetate sedimentation techniques. Eggs and worms were identified according to standard procedures. The packed cell volume was determined using the hematocrit centrifugation technique. Results: A total of 79.92% of the cattle examined were found positive with one or more helminth species. Eighteen helminth species (cutting across all classes of helminths) were detected, with Haemonchus contortus (60.46%), Trichostrongylus spp. (46.44%), Ostertagia ostertagi (42.05%), Bunostomum phlebotomum (28.87%), Cooperia spp. (24.27%), Oesophagostomum radiatum (21.97%), Strongyloides papillosus (12.13%), and Fasciola gigantica (10.67%) been the most prevalent. Helminth infection was detected all through the year with the least prevalence recorded in February (55.00%). About 61% of the examined cattle harbored double/multiple helminth species. There was a significant difference between breed, sex, physiological status, and season with the prevalence rate of helminth infections (p<0.05). Conclusion: Our investigation demonstrated high prevalence and wide diversity of helminth species, which suggests that helminth infections are of great concern among cattle in Ilorin and Nigeria in general. There is a need for a radical veterinary intervention to curb the menace so as to have an economically robust cattle industry in Nigeria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Children infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) may be more prone to helminthic infestation because they have depleted immunity, which increases their susceptibility to infection and infestations, even with minimally pathogenic organisms such as helminths., Aim: The prevalence and pattern of intestinal helminthiasis among children living with HIV attending the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH), Ituku-Ozalla, Enugu., Patients and Methods: A cross-sectional study in which 70 HIV-infected children were consecutively recruited from the Pediatric HIV clinic and matched for age and sex with 70 children recruited from the children outpatient clinic (CHOP) of UNTH Ituku-Ozalla. Stool samples of study participants were collected and analyzed using the Kato-Katz method and subsequently examined under the microscope for helminths' eggs and larvae. The worm intensity was determined using the theoretical analytic sensitivity (TAS) of 24 eggs per gram (EPG) to obtain the number of eggs per gram of feces. The CD4+ count, which describes the severity of immunosuppression in HIV-positive children was determined using the PARTEC Cyflow counter for the CD4+ lymphocyte count, whereas HIV screening was performed using the rapid diagnostic tests for HIV (Determine, Statpack and Unigold). Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS., Results: The prevalence of intestinal helminthiasis among HIV-infected and non-infected children was 27.1% and 12.9%, respectively (P = 0.038). HIV-positive children were more likely to have intestinal helminthiasis than HIV-negative children (odds ratio [OR] =2.525, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.052-6.063). Ascaris lumbricoides was the predominant helminthic species in both HIV-infected and non-infected groups; however, there was no statistical significance between intestinal helminthic species and HIV status (P = 0.655) but the severity of intestinal helminthiasis was significantly associated with decreasing CD4+ count (P = 0.028). The risk factors for intestinal helminthic infestation examined were similar in both HIV-positive and HIV-negative children (P > 0.05)., Conclusion: There was a significantly higher prevalence of helminthic infestation among HIV-infected children compared to their HIV-negative counterparts. The severity of intestinal helminthiasis was significantly associated with decreasing CD4+ count., (Copyright © 2024 Copyright: © 2024 Nigerian Journal of Clinical Practice.)

Schoolchildren in primary schools are mostly at risk of acquiring soil-transmitted helminths (STHs) infections due to their habits (geophagy, onychophagy and playing with barefoot). Profiling soil parasites on school playgrounds is expected to provide an insight to an array of parasites schoolchildren are constantly at risk of acquiring; and this information could guide on intervention programmes. Soil samples from sixteen primary school playgrounds in Edo State (South-South, Nigeria) were collected over a six-month period both in the dry (January, February and March) and wet (May, June and July) seasons in 2018 and early 2019. Samples were processed and analysed following standard parasitological procedures. Of the 576 soil samples collected, 318(55.2 %) were positive with one or more soil parasites. Generally, the predominant parasites recovered from the total number of soil samples collected were: Ascaris 127(22 %), Strongyloides 111(19.27 %) and hookworm 50(8.68 %). Ascaris was most preponderant in the dry season, while Strongyloides was the most occurring in the wet season. The mean differences in the parasite load for Ascaris and hookworm between dry and wet seasons were not significant; while for Strongyloides it was higher in the wet than dry season. These results could be a consequence of observed poor state of toilet/sanitary facilities as well as the lack or poor state of basic infrastructure like proper drainage and waste disposal systems in the host communities. There is therefore urgent need to interrupt the STHs transmission cycles in the environment and possibly in schoolchildren by instituting sustainable intervention programmes within schools located in STHs endemic regions like southern Nigeria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fish is an important source of food and income to many developing countries, parasites usually affect the marketability of the commercially produced fish, thus raising public health concern especially in areas where raw or smoked fish is eaten. The study is aimed at assessing the prevalence of helminths in fish sold in selected catching point along river Kaduna. A total number of eighty [80] African Catfish were randomly purchased from fishermen along River Kaduna [Malali and Kabala Doki] on weekly basis from June - December, 2018.The samples were subjected to examination for helminth parasites using standard parasitological techniques. The result shows that out of eighty [80] examined, 15[35.0%] and 11[27.5%] were infected at Malali and Kabala Doki respectively. Larger fish weighed between 601- 1000g had the highest prevalence 11[45.4%)] and 2[50%] in Malali and Kabala Doki respectively. The standard length ranges between 31-50cm from Malali and Kabala Doki had 5[50%] and 3[60%] prevalence respectively. Female sample have the highest prevalence in Malali 8[38.1%] and Kabala 7[31.8%].The helminth parasites recorded are cestode having two [2] different species [Polyonchobothrium sp. and Bothriocephalus sp.], others include Paracamellamus sp. [Nematode] and Heterophase sp. [Trematode]. Endoparasites recorded the highest number of parasite with stomach having [10] and small intestines [12] in Kabala and Malali area respectively. The statistical analysis showed no relationship between ecto and endo parasites infection. More helminth parasites were recovered from the intestine (17) than the gills and skin (03). Females were infected more with 31.8 and 38.1% than the males with 22.2 and 31.6% in Kabala Doki and Malali catching points respectively. Further research is recommended on a large scale to ascertain the level of damage on the histopathology of the tissues and organs of infected fish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Knowledge of endemic helminths in a resource-limited country such as Nigeria is essential for their diagnosis, treatment and cost-effective control. In the present study, the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis) guideline was employed to determine the prevalence and geographical distribution of zoonotic helminths in food animals slaughtered in Nigerian abattoirs between 1970 and 2016. Pooled prevalence estimate (PPE) was determined by the random-effects model while heterogeneity was evaluated using the Cochran's Q -test. Results from 42 eligible studies reported across 19 Nigerian states revealed 85,466 cases of zoonotic helminths from 3,771,832 slaughtered food animals. Overall PPE was 2.27% (95% confidence interval (CI): 2.25, 2.28). PPEs for sub-groups ranged between 0.51% (95% CI: 0.46, 0.56) and 18.05% (95% CI: 17.12, 19.01) across regions, hosts, study periods and diagnostic methods. Ascaris suum had the highest pooled prevalence of 25.46% (95% CI: 24.04, 26.92). Overall prevalence estimates for cestodes, nematodes and trematodes were 0.60% (95% CI: 0.59, 0.61), 21.51% (95% CI: 20.73, 22.30) and 1.86% (95% CI: 1.84, 1.87), respectively. A high degree of heterogeneity 99.97% (95% CI: 2.25, 2.28, P : 0.000) was observed. Zoonotic helminths were prevalent in slaughtered food animals, with higher prevalence estimates in the north–central region, pigs and during the last decade reviewed. Ascaris suum was the most prevalent helminth, while Fasciola gigantica had the widest geographical distribution. It is envisaged that the present information will help in the formulation of disease-control policies, encourage on-farm good agricultural practices, and adequate hygiene and sanitation in abattoirs and meat-processing plants, with the aim of protecting public health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Parasitic infections constitute a major public health problem worldwide, particularly among underprivileged communities in developing countries including Nigeria. The present study aimed to determine the epidemiology of polyparasitism (multiple parasitic infections) among rural communities in Kano State, North Central Nigeria. Methods A total of 551 individuals were screened for the presence of intestinal, urogenital and blood parasites by using different diagnostic techniques. Demographic, socioeconomic, household and behavioural characteristics were collected using a pre-tested questionnaire. Results Overall, 84.0% (463/551) of the participants were found to be infected with at least one parasite species, with 51.2% (282/551) of them having polyparasitism. The most prevalent parasites were Plasmodium falciparum (60.6%) followed by Blastocystis sp. (29.2%) and hookworm (15.4%). No significant association was found between malaria and helminth infections (p>0.05). Univariate and multivariate analyses showed that the presence of other family members who had intestinal polyparasitism (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]=4.12; 95% CI=2.72, 6.24), walking barefoot outside (AOR=1.70; 95% CI=1.09, 2.63) and being male (AOR=1.74; 95% CI=1.14, 2.66) were the significant risk factors of intestinal polyparasitism among the population studied. Conclusion Polyparasitism is highly prevalent among rural communities in Kano State. Therefore, effective, sustainable and integrated control measures should be identified and implemented to significantly reduce the burden and consequences of these infections in rural Nigeria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Helminth infections inflict negatively on the production and well-being of animals including poultry. This study was carried out to determine the prevalence, species diversity, intensity, and risk factors associated with the gastrointestinal helminths of intensively raised poultry in Kwara Central senatorial district of Kwara State. Materials and Methods: Fecal samples were collected from 502 poultry species from 15 farms. The samples were subjected to floatation and the formalin-ethyl acetate concentration techniques of examination. The intensity of infections was determined using McMaster counting technique. Results: Seven helminth species were detected with Heterakis gallinarum (10.2%) and Ascaridia galli (6.0%) been the most prevalent, while Capillaria species was the least prevalent (0.8%). Physiological status, bird type, production purpose, farm age (years), presence of other animals in the farm, flock size (birds), farm size (acres), housing type, farm type, frequency of anthelmintic use, distance to waste area (meters), level of biosecurity, and frequency of cleaning the pen were the risk factors significantly (p<0.05) associated with the presence of helminth infections. Conclusion: This study shows that helminth infections are endemic in the study area, as 66.7% of the sampled farms were infected with one or more helminth species. Findings from this study provide information that will assist in improving the poultry sector in Kwara State, Nigeria in general, for better production and profitability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The current study aimed to determine the prevalence, infection burden, and risk factors associated with the occurrence of gastrointestinal (GI) parasites in different avian species in Ilorin, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted in Ilorin, involving 597 fecal samples and GI tracts from a variety of sold and slaughtered avian species. The study was conducted between September 2017 and February 2018. Fecal samples were examined using floatation technique, while the GI tracts were examined for gross helminths and its content were subjected to the direct wet mount examination. Data were analyzed using percentages (descriptive) and the Chi-square (X2) test (inferential). p < 0.05 was considered significant for all analysis. Results: Ten GI parasites were detected with Eimeria species (32.83%), Ascaridia galli (30.15%) and Heterakis gallinarum (24.79%) as the most prevalent ones. Multiple parasites co-infection was recorded in all the avian species: broilers (77.78%), layers (33.33%), cockerels (45.16%), indigenous chickens (17.91%), ducks (69.70%), pigeons (94.12%), turkeys (47.83%), and guinea fowls (77.36%). Pigeons (100.00%) and turkeys (95.65%) were the most infected avian species. Age, sex, and avian types were significantly (p < 0.05) associated with the occurrence of GI parasites infection. Conclusion: This study gives a reflection of the GI parasites fauna of avian species in Nigeria. The GI parasites are endemic among different avian species in Ilorin, North Central Nigeria. Knowledge on the epidemiology of these parasites is important in instituting a good preventive and control measures against GI parasites, so as to have maximum production and reproduction effects in the poultry industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Intestinal helminthiasis occurs in sub-optimal living conditions with poor hygiene practices and is more prevalent in rural, suburban and institutionalized centres. Heavy helminthic burden negatively affects the nutritional status and the severity of anaemia among children living in orphanages., Aim: To determine the risk factors and relationship of intestinal helminthiasis with nutritional status and anaemia among institutionalized children in three states of South-East Nigeria., Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted over seven months involving 198 children recruited from orphanages in Anambra, Ebonyi and Enugu states. Their stool samples were analyzed using the Kato-Katz and Ether concentration techniques, and packed cell volume and anthropometric indices were documented. Data were analyzed., Results: Of the 198 children, 109 (55.1%) were females with a median age of 2.5 years and interquartile range (3 months - 17 years). The prevalence of intestinal helminthiasis was 2.5%. Among the children that had intestinal helminthiasis, 4 (80%) had mono-parasitism with Ascaris lumbricoides, while 1 (20%) had mixed infestation of Ascaris lumbricoides and Trichuris trichiura. There was a significant association (p=0.01) between being infested with intestinal helminthiasis and caregiver handwashing practices. The anthropometric indices demonstrated that 5.6%, 6.6% and 13.1% of the children were underweight, wasted and stunted respectively. No helminth-infested child had malnutrition and only 1 (20%) infested child had moderate anaemia., Conclusion: Caregivers' good handwashing practice was associated with reduced prevalence of intestinal infestations and should be encouraged. There was no relationship found between the presence of helminthic infestations and nutritional status or anaemia among the institutionalised children., Competing Interests: The Authors declare that no competing interest exists, (Copyright © 2023 by West African Journal of Medicine.)

The prevalence of ecto-, blood and gastrointestinal helminth parasitic infection was conducted among free-ranging wild birds in Benin City, Nigeria. Birds were collected by traps and cages, identified and the parasites were collected following standard procedures. A total of 224 wild birds comprising 24 species were used for this study (107 were examined for ecto- and gastrointestinal helminth parasites respectively while 117 were examined for blood parasites only). Ninety-nine (92.52%) were infected with ectoparasites which included mainly Columbicola columbae, Menopon gallinae, Chelopistes melagridis while 105 (98.13%) with gastrointestinal helminth parasites comprising majorly Ascaridia galli, Raillietina cesticillus, Heterakis gallinarum, however, it was not statistically significant (p>0.05). Thirty-eight birds (32.48%) of the 117 were infected with blood parasites out of which 34 (29.06%) were infected with Plasmodium species while 4 (3.42%) with Leucocytozoon sp. Columbicola columbae was the most abundant ectoparasite recorded and M. plegadis, Ixodes sp and Dermanyssus gallinae occurred with two individuals each. The most abundant gastrointestinal helminth parasite recorded was R. cesticillus while Choanotaenia infundibulum and A. galli occurred with intermediate abundances. The highest number (43, 35.83%) of ectoparasites was recorded in Ploceus cucullatus, Streptopelia roseogrisea was the most infected with gastrointestinal helminths (76, 69.72%). Some of the parasites recovered are of both economic and public health importance, thus they may affect the population and biodiversity of wild birds. These birds may therefore, serve as reservoirs of infection for man and his domestic animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the prevalence and intensity of intestinal parasites and determines the combined impact of organochlorine pesticides and parasites on the total health of the fish in Lagos lagoon. Twelve congeners of organochloride pesticides (OCPs) were analyzed in water, sediment, fish and parasites using mass chromatograph coupled with an electron detector. The prevalence of intestinal helminth infection in Sarotheron melanotheron was 20.83%. Twenty-five individuals were infected with parasitic cestode Wenyonia sp (20.83%, Chi-Square, X² = 11.2, p<0.05), out of which 18 (15.00%) were males and 7 (5.83%) were females. The intestinal parasites found in S.melanotheron were cestode; Wenyonia sp, protozoa; Myxobolus sp. Coccidian spores, Myxosoma sp, and Hexamita sp. Five congeners were detected in the water, sediment, fish and parasites. Some protozoa parasites of Sarotherodon melanotheron have shown qualities of bioindicators from the study. Myxosoma sp showed positive correlation (r = 0.315, p<0.05) with DDT and heptachlor (r = 0.301, p<0.05) but its correlation coefficient was not significant for endosulfan 1, aldrin and total OCPs. None of the intestinal helminth parasite infection correlates significantly with any of the OCPs congeners in the lagoon. Iddo station had the highest parasite prevalence and concentrations of DDT, Aldrin, Dieldrin, and Heptachlor in the water and sediment and the highest GAI, showing high frequencies of several inflammations, and tissue necrosis as a result of greater multi-stress pressure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Some small mammals occur as household pests and harbour a number of parasites that could be of public health importance. This study profiled the helminth and protozoan parasites in trapped small mammals within and around human dwelling places (houses) located across 4 major towns (Auchi, Benin, Ekpoma, and Uromi) and environs in Edo state, Nigeria. Six genera (Apodemus sp., Crocidura sp., Mastomys natalensis, Mus musculus, Rattus sp., and Sorex sp.) were identified from 502 trapped small mammals. Overall, M. musculus (71.9%) and Rattus rattus (20.1%) were the most frequently trapped. In total, on examination of blood, gastrointestinal contents, and brain tissues, 12 helminth taxa (Angiostrongylus sp., Aspicularis sp., Capillaria sp., Gongylonema sp., Heterakis spumosa, Hymenolepis diminuta, Hymenolepis nana, Mastophorus muris, Moniliformis moniliformis, Nippostrongylus brasiliensis, Strongyloides sp., Trichosomoides sp., and Trichuris sp.), and 6 protozoan parasites (Babesia sp., Trypanosoma lewisi, Plasmodium sp., Eimeria sp., Isospora sp., and Toxoplasma gondii) were isolated. Most prevalent helminths with relatively heavy mean intensity were Strongyloides sp. and Heterakis spumosa, while Plasmodium, Eimeria, and Isospora were the most prevalent protozoan parasites. Generally, intrinsic factors like sex and age had marginal influence on the rate and burden of infection in M. musculus and R. rattus. Although the infection rate and prevalence of zoonotic parasites were low, they were largely recovered in rodents from Ekpoma. This study elucidates the public health implication of the presence of zoonotic parasites in these small mammals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective This study compared the prevalence of intestinal helminths in Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) intervention and non-intervention communities in Abeokuta, Nigeria. Methods Stool samples were collected from 225 respondents in a study carried out between July and November, 2014. Stool samples were examined for presence of helminths using Formol-Ether concentration method. Data collected from stool samples were analyzed using SPSS for Windows (version 16). Results Results showed that, at the intervention community, 88 out of 113 respondents were infected with at least one helminth infection while at non-intervention community, 80 out of 112 respondents were infected. This result revealed overall helminth prevalence of 78% at Mawuko and 71% at Isolu. In both intervention (Mawuko) and non-intervention (Isolu) communities, hookworm was the most prevalent helminth observed (21% and 18%, respectively) followed by Ascaris lumbricoides (13% and 13%, respectively), Taenia sp. (4% and 3%, respectively) and Trichostrongylus sp. (1% and 3%, respectively). Cases of single infections of Trichuris trichiura , Strongyloides stercoralis and Hymenolepsis nana were observed only at the non-intervention community. However, S. stercoralis occurred in the multiple infections observed at the intervention community. Significantly more ( p < 0.05) cases of infections were observed in male (46%) at the intervention community than female (31%) while in non-intervention community females (39%) were significantly ( p < 0.05) more infected than their male counterparts (32%). Conclusions This study concludes that the Community Led-Total Sanitation intervention programme, which was executed in Mawuko was not effective as expected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Neglected tropical diseases, such as soil-transmitted helminths and Schistosomiasis, are prevalent in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly Ogun State, Nigeria. School-based mass drug administration program is the primary control intervention, but the coverage and uptake of this intervention have been inadequate. This study aimed to investigate community perceptions of school-based mass drug administration programs for these infections in Ogun State, Nigeria, and identify the barriers to their uptake and coverage., Methodology/principal Findings: The study used a qualitative research approach involving focus group discussions and in-depth interviews with community members and stakeholders engaged in neglected tropical disease control programs in Ogun State, Nigeria. A semi-structured questionnaire guided the exploration of ideas, and the data were analyzed using the QRS Nvivo 12 software package. The study found several barriers, such as the influence of parents, lack of sufficient knowledge, and side effects. The study recommended strategies such as improving community sensitization and engagement, drug distribution and performance, and enhancing partner collaboration and coordination to improve the school-based mass drug administration programs., Conclusions/significance: The study revealed correct perceptions of transmission but some misconceptions about disease causation, transmission, and drug safety. Participants expressed a desire for better sensitization campaigns and more assurances of their safety. The study recommends strengthening health education messages and increasing the visibility of on-site medical personnel. The findings have implications for improving the performance of these programs and reducing the burden of intestinal parasitic infections in the community. The study highlights the need for community engagement and education, health system support, and partner collaboration to successfully implement mass drug administration programs., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist., (Copyright: © 2023 Akinsolu et al. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.)

Preventive chemotherapy (PC) is an important tool to address transmission and reduce morbidities associated with soil-transmitted helminths (STHs). The aim of the study is to assess the PC implementation programme coverage and relate the same to the endemicity of STH in Nigeria. The secondary data collected by the World Health Organization (WHO) through the expanded special project for elimination of neglected tropical diseases (ESPEN) and made available at the ESPEN portal was used for the study. The PC implementation coverage and frequency of treatment were evaluated and related to STH endemicity levels in Nigeria. STH was actively transmitted in all six geopolitical zones of Nigeria. The southern part of Nigeria was more endemic compared with northern Nigeria. There was no PC intervention in preschoolers and effective PC coverage (19.3%) fell below the WHO ≥ 75% PC coverage index benchmark in school children. The percentages of children that harbour low, moderate, and high STH infections were 41.5, 41.6, and 13.4%, respectively. Multiple treatments did not necessarily reduce the endemicity of STH on certain occasions. STH continues to be a public health threat in Nigeria. The current treatment strategies should be reviewed to accommodate preschoolers in PC implementation programmes. Treatment should be integrated with the WASH programme in order to achieve a lasting impact., (© 2023. The Author(s).)

The study aimed at assessing the prevalence and risk factors of soil-transmitted helminthiases among school-aged children in Ogoja Local Government Area, Cross River State. Fecal samples were collected from 504 participants and analyzed using the Kato-Katz technique and modified Baermann technique for identifying larvae of Strongyloides. A total of 232 (46.0%) samples were positive for soil-transmitted helminths. The overall prevalence of Ascaris lumbricoides, hookworm, Trichuris trichiura, and Strongyloides stercoralis were 14.1%, 16.5%, 2.6%, and 12.9% respectively. The prevalence of infections were higher among males (46.6%) than females (45.4%). Overall, parasitic infection was higher in the 5-7-year age group (65.6%) than in the other age groups (p = 0.000). Infection intensities of A. lumbricoides (84.00 EPG) (p = 0.044) and T. trichiura (96.00 EPG) (p = 0.041) were higher in school-age children aged 14-16 years. A. lumbricoides and hookworm co-infection (8.7%) was the most common mixed infection and was significantly higher in males than females. School-aged children who did not have prior knowledge about soil-transmitted helminth infections, the habit of drinking water without boiling, open defecation, use of pit latrine, and children who did not have toilet facilities in school were significantly associated with soil-transmitted helminthiases. There was a significant relationship between washing hands after using the toilet, the habit of putting on footwear outside the house, and soil-transmitted helminth infection. In addition to preventive chemotherapy, control measures should focus on health education, providing clean drinking water, proper disposal of human excreta and sewage, and environmental hygiene., (© 2023. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.)

Aim. This survey study was conducted from April 2014 through March 2015 in Bauchi, Yobe, and Gombe states, northeastern Nigeria, to explore the risk factors associated with the occurrence of gastrointestinal helminthosis among indigenous donkeys (Equus asinus). Materials and Methods. A total of six hundred fresh faecal samples were randomly collected from indigenous donkeys of varying age, sex, and settlements. Simple flotation and sedimentation techniques were used for the detection of helminths eggs. Results. Three gastrointestinal nematode parasites were encountered including Strongyle, Parascaris equorum, and Oxyuris equi. An overall prevalence of 98.3% was obtained, of which 78.3%, 40.3%, and 17.5% were, respectively, from Strongyle, Parascaris equorum, and Oxyuris equi. Age, sex, and season were not statistically associated with the risk of helminth infection as were the different study areas (p>0.05). However, body condition score, settlement, anthelminthic medication history, and management practices were significantly associated with the risk of gastrointestinal helminthosis. Statistically high prevalence of helminthic infections was observed in donkeys, with poor (thin) body condition, from rural settlements, that were not dewormed and raised under poor management systems (p<0.001). Conclusion. It is concluded from the study that gastrointestinal helminths particularly Strongyle were endemic among the indigenous donkeys in northeastern Nigeria. Further control and preventive measures were discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Malaria and intestinal helminths co-infection are major public health problems particularly among school age children in Nigeria. However the magnitude and possible interactions of these infections remain poorly understood. This study determined the prevalence, impact and possible interaction of Plasmodium falciparum and intestinal helminths co-infection among school children in rural communities of Kwara State, Nigeria. Methods: Blood, urine and stool samples were collected from 1017 primary school pupils of ages 4–15 years. Stool samples were processed using both Kato-Katz and formol-ether concentration techniques and microscopically examined for intestinal helminths infection. Urine samples were analyzed using sedimentation method for Schistosoma haematobium. Plasmodium falciparum was confirmed by microscopy using thick and thin blood films methods and packed cell volume (PCV) was determined using hematocrit reader. Univariate analysis and chi-square statistical tests were used to analyze the data. Results: Overall, 61.2% of all school children had at least an infection of either P. falciparum, S. haematobium, or intestinal helminth. S. haematobium accounted for the largest proportion (44.4%) of a single infection followed by P. falciparum (20.6%). The prevalence of malaria and helminth co-infection in the study was 14.4%. Four species of intestinal helminths were recovered from the stool samples and these were hookworm (22.5%), Hymenolepis species (9.8%), Schistosoma mansoni (2.9%) and Enterobius vermicularis (0.6%). The mean densities of P. falciparum in children co-infected with S. haematobium and hookworm were higher compared to those infected with P. falciparum only though not statistically significant (p = 0.062). The age distribution of both S. haematobium (p = 0.049) and hookworm (p = 0.034) infected children were statistically significant with the older age group (10–15 years) recording the highest prevalence of 47.2% and 25% respectively. Children who were infected with S. haematobium (RR = 1.3) and hookworm (RR = 1.4) have equal chances of being infected with P. falciparum as children with no worm infection. On the other hand children infected with Hymenolepis spp. (p<0.0001) are more likely to be infected with P. falciparum than Hymenolepis spp. uninfected children (RR = 2.0) Conclusions: These findings suggest that multiple parasitic infections are common in school age children in rural communities of Kwara State Nigeria. The Hymenolepis spp. induced increase susceptibility to P. falciparum could have important consequences on how concurrent infections affect the expression or pathogenesis of these infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The acceleration of the control of soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections in Nigeria, emphasizing preventive chemotherapy, has become imperative in light of the global fight against neglected tropical diseases. Predictive risk maps are an important tool to guide and support control activities. Methodology: STH infection prevalence data were obtained from surveys carried out in 2011 using standard protocols. Data were geo-referenced and collated in a nationwide, geographic information system database. Bayesian geostatistical models with remotely sensed environmental covariates and variable selection procedures were utilized to predict the spatial distribution of STH infections in Nigeria. Principal Findings: We found that hookworm, Ascaris lumbricoides, and Trichuris trichiura infections are endemic in 482 (86.8%), 305 (55.0%), and 55 (9.9%) locations, respectively. Hookworm and A. lumbricoides infection co-exist in 16 states, while the three species are co-endemic in 12 states. Overall, STHs are endemic in 20 of the 36 states of Nigeria, including the Federal Capital Territory of Abuja. The observed prevalence at endemic locations ranged from 1.7% to 51.7% for hookworm, from 1.6% to 77.8% for A. lumbricoides, and from 1.0% to 25.5% for T. trichiura. Model-based predictions ranged from 0.7% to 51.0% for hookworm, from 0.1% to 82.6% for A. lumbricoides, and from 0.0% to 18.5% for T. trichiura. Our models suggest that day land surface temperature and dense vegetation are important predictors of the spatial distribution of STH infection in Nigeria. In 2011, a total of 5.7 million (13.8%) school-aged children were predicted to be infected with STHs in Nigeria. Mass treatment at the local government area level for annual or bi-annual treatment of the school-aged population in Nigeria in 2011, based on World Health Organization prevalence thresholds, were estimated at 10.2 million tablets. Conclusions/Significance: The predictive risk maps and estimated deworming needs presented here will be helpful for escalating the control and spatial targeting of interventions against STH infections in Nigeria. Author Summary: Infections with three kinds of parasitic worms—hookworm, roundworm, and whipworm—are collectively known as soil-transmitted helminths (STHs). These parasitic worm infections are widespread in Nigeria, but the exact distribution is poorly understood. In view of the global commitment to control STH infections, there is a need to accelerate the mapping of STH infections to guide control interventions, such as large-scale administration of deworming drugs. In this study, we collated survey data from the year 2011 for Nigeria. The data were utilized to predict the distribution of STH infection based on environmental and socioeconomic covariates, and employing a Bayesian geostatistical modeling approach. Our results indicated that STH infections are widely distributed across Nigeria with prevalence estimates as high as 83% for roundworm, 50% for hookworm, and 19% for whipworm infections at specific survey locations. We predict that 5.7 million school-aged children were infected with STHs. The numbers of deworming tablets for annual or bi-annual treatment of the school-aged population at local government areas level in Nigeria for 2011 were estimated to be 10.2 million. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background This study was aimed at examining the potential of non-biting synanthropic filth flies to acquire naturally eggs of human intestinal helminths from unsanitary sites, and its attendant public health importance. Methods Body surface washings and gut contents of flies caught foraging while infected human faeces lay exposed at a garbage dump in Iperu, Ogun State, Nigeria and within 24 hours subsequently after removal of faeces from the dump were examined parasitologically by the formol-ether concentration technique. The viability of helminth eggs isolated from flies was determined by incubation under laboratory conditions. Results A total of 303 flies were examined: Musca domestica (107; 35.3%), Chrysomya megacephala (125; 41.3%) and Musca sorbens (71; 23.4%). Eggs of Ascaris lumbricoides and Trichuris trichiura isolated from exposed human faeces were recovered from the body surfaces and or gut contents of flies caught before (141; 77.5%) and after removal of exposed faeces (44; 36.4%). Eggs of Taenia sp. were isolated only from the gut contents of three C. megacephala flies caught after removal of exposed faeces. Significantly more (p<0.05) eggs were recovered from fly gut contents than body surfaces and from flies caught before than after removal of exposed faeces. 93.1% (552; from exposed faeces) and 57.4% (408; from flies) of A. lumbricoides and T. trichiura eggs were viable. Conclusions Synanthropic flies may, because they carry viable eggs acquired naturally from unsanitary sites, be involved in the epidemiology of human intestinal helminthiases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Malaria and helminthic parasites are endemic in tropical countries, and co-infections might influence host-parasite interactions. In this community-based cross-sectional study, the effect that the presence of soil-transmitted helminths (STH) (Hookworm, Hymenolepis nana) and Schistosoma haematobium infections could have on the immunoglobulin (Ig) candidate protein of the malaria vaccine GMZ2 levels was evaluated., Methods: Blood, stool, and urine samples were collected from 5-15-year-old children to diagnose P. falciparum (Pf), STH, and Schistosoma haematobium , respectively. Identification and quantification of the parasite load of STH and S. haematobium were achieved by light microscopy. A polymerase chain reaction was carried out to detect submicroscopic infections of P. falciparum . Plasma levels of GMZ2 specific IgG and its subclasses were quantified by ELISA., Results: The median level of total IgG in individuals with co-infection with Pf/ H . nana was significantly lower in the mono-infected group with Pf (p = 0.0121) or study participants without infection ( p =0.0217). Similarly, the median level of IgG1 was statistically lower in Pf/ H. nana group compared to Pf-group ( p =0.0137). Equally, the Pf/ H. nana infected individuals posted a lower level of IgG1 compared to Pf-group (p=0.0137) and IgG4 compared to the Pf-group ( p =0.0144). Spearman rank correlation analyses indicated positive relationships between the densities of H. nana (ρ=0.25, p =0.015) and S. haematobium (ρ=0.36, p< 0.0001)., Conclusions: Hookworm and H. nana infections are associated with reduced GMZ2 specific IgG levels. This study shows the possible manipulation of immune responses by helminths for their survival and transmission, which may have serious implications for vaccine development and deployment in helminth-endemic regions., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2022 Adukpo, Adedoja, Esen, Theisen, Ntoumi and Ojurongbe.)

Malaria, helminthiasis and HIV are widespread in developing countries taking a heavy toll on pregnant women. Due to similar environmental and human factors of transmission, they co-exist. The epidemiology and pathology of these diseases have been extensively studied but data on serum cytokine profile changes which is crucial in pregnancy is limited. The aim of this study was to evaluate the co-infections and their impact on peripheral blood cytokines. Blood and stool samples were collected from recruited 18-45-year-old pregnant women in different trimesters who were apparently healthy with no obvious complications in pregnancy. Pretested questionnaires were administered for personal and socio-demographic details. Malaria parasitemia in Giemsa-stained thick blood films was examined microscopically. Stool samples were screened for helminths using Kato-Katz method. Cytokine levels of TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-1α, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, IL-12p70, IL-13 and IL-17 in 121 serum samples were determined using ELISA. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and Mann-Whitney U test at α 0.05. Relative to the single infections, there were significant reductions in IFN-γ and IL-13 in second and third trimesters respectively in those with Plasmodium and helminth co-infection. IFN-γ and IL-17 were elevated while IL-1α and IL-12p70 were reduced in co-infection of helminths and HIV. Co-infection of Plasmodium and HIV in second and third trimesters showed significant elevations in IL-1α, IL-10 and IL-17 while TNF-α, IL-4 and IL-12p70 were significantly reduced. HIV in pregnancy and its co-infection with Plasmodium resulted in significant distortions in the cytokine profile. However, helminth and its co-infection with Plasmodium or HIV produced less changes in the cytokine profile., (© 2022. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.)