Contamination by Eggs of Nematodes (Nematoda) of Public Health Concern in Tropical Beaches

Abstract

Public spaces such as beaches develop an important role in the welfare of the human population in Brazil, where leisure and safety spaces are increasingly scant. Knowledge about the possible role of contaminated sand of beaches on the health of animals and humans is pivotal to determine risk areas and preventing future cases. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the presence of eggs of nematodes of public health interest on tropical beaches. Soil samplings (n = 42) from 10 different beaches located in the Metropolitan region of Recife, Northeastern Brazil, were analyzed through the FLOTAC technique. In 80% (8/10) of beaches, eggs of nematodes were detected. In particular, if we consider each individual sample (n = 42) a positivity rate of 90.4% (38/42) was observed. Eggs belonging to the families Ascarididae (47.6%; 20/42), Ancylostomatidae (26.1%; 11/42), and Trichuridae (11.9%; 5/42) were detected. Based on these data, it is necessary to implement preventive measures and educational actions for the population in order to mitigate the potential risk of exposition to parasites of zoonotic importance. Additionally, the FLOTAC technique has been shown to be a reliable technique for assessing soil contamination by nematode eggs.