Epidemiological determinants of parasitic infestation among 6-12 years old children in peri-urban area of Rohtak, Haryana, India

Background: Intestinal parasitic infestation is one of the commonest causes of chronic infection in humans in developing countries and is responsible for considerable morbidity and mortality. Despite the improved socio-economic conditions and elevated living standards, surprisingly it is still a public health problem even in developed countries, like the United States. Objectives of the study were to determine the association of factors associated with parasitic infestation among children of 6-12 years age. Methods: A cross sectional survey approach was adopted to collect the data and 200 children (6-12 years) and their parents were finally included as per research criteria. Data was collected by interviewing the parents and children using structured interview schedule. Microscopic examinations of stool samples were also done for detection of ova and cysts of intestinal parasites. Results: Out of 200 study subjects 65 (32.5%) were found to be positive for parasitic infestation namely Giardia lamblia (18.0%) E. histolytica (8.5%), Taenia (4.5%) and H. nana (1.5%). Majority of parasitic infestation i.e. (58.7%) was found among the children of illiterate mothers, (44.6%) in case of joint families and (44.8%) belonging to families having a monthly income less than Rs. 5,000. Conclusions: In this study, it was found that mother’s education, family income, type of family are significantly associated factors with parasitic infestation. The present study opens an area for the further planning such as improving the low socio-economic status, regular deworming of the children, promotion of usages of toilets and up gradation of water supply system as preventive measures in this setting.