Diarrhoeal diseases and intestinal parasitic infections in the Taabo health and demographic surveillance system, Côte d’Ivoire

Abstract

Abstract Diarrhoeal diseases and intestinal helminthiasis are major health problems, especially in rural areas with poor hygiene conditions. This study was conducted to determine the relationship between diarrhoeal diseases and intestinal parasitic infections. In November 2017, we conducted a cross-sectional parasitological survey in thirteen (13) localities in the Taabo sub-prefecture which hosts a Health and Demographic Surveillance System. Study participants were asked to provide a stool sample. These samples were examined macroscopically and microscopically for diarrhoea and intestinal parasite infections, respectively. Overall, 690 participants were included in this study. The prevalence of diarrhoeal disease was 15.9% (110/690). In addition, stool analysis by Kato-Katz method revealed prevalence of 15.5% and 3.2% for Ancylostoma spp. and Trichuris trichiura, respectively; 0.1% for Ascaris lumbricoides and Schistosoma mansoni. Of these parasite species, a significant association was observed between cases of diarrhoea and T. trichiura (X2 = 6.443; P = 0.011). This study showed relatively high prevalence of diarrhoeal diseases and hookworm infestation in Taabo sub-prefecture. However, parasitic diseases were found at significantly lower prevalence than in previous studies. These results underscore the need for integrated interventions for effective and efficient control of these diseases to alleviate their burden among vulnerable groups.