Prevalence of soil-transmitted helminths and protozoan parasites’ infections among inmates in Nsukka Correctional Centre

Abstract

This research investigated the prevalence of protozoan and geohelminth infections among detainees at the Nsukka Correctional Center in Enugu State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional study design was used, and 90 male inmates examined from March to August 2023. Stool samples were obtained from participants and analyzed using direct smear and formol-ether concentration techniques. Overall infection prevalence was 66.7%; 60 out of 90 were diagnosed with at least one of the parasitic infections. Among the affected individuals, 23 (25.6%) were infected with geohelminths, while 37 (41.1%) by protozoa. Co-infection with soil-transmitted helminths (STHs) and protozoa occurred in 6 inmates (6.7%). Ascaris lumbricoides (21.1%), Strongyloides stercoralis (5.6%), hookworms (2.2%), and Trichuris trichuria (1.1%) were the STHs identified.Protozoan infections were attributed to two species, Entamoeba histolytica (37.8%) and Giardia lamblia (8.9%). These findings highlight the significant burden of parasitic infections within this correctional setting, underscoring the urgent need for enhanced sanitation, improved sanitary practices, and health education to curb the transmission of these infections.