Work

Comparative Analysis of Intestinal Parasitic Infections and Risk Factors Affected by the Pandemic Among Primary Schoolchildren in the Provinces of Manzini and Lubombo, Kingdom of Eswatini: A Follow‐Up Study in 2019 and 2022

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Background: Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) are a persistent public health challenge in low‐ and middle‐income countries, particularly among school‐aged children. Objective: This study aimed to compare IPI prevalence and risk factors before and after the COVID‐19 pandemic in Eswatini, based on the hypothesis that pandemic‐related disruptions may have influenced infection dynamics, despite no formal interventions being introduced. Methods: A prospective cohort of 128 schoolchildren from Manzini and Lubombo Provinces was followed from 2019 to 2022. Stool samples were analyzed using the merthiolate–iodine–formaldehyde (MIF) method. Structured interviews assessed hygiene behaviors and household factors. Logistic regression was used to identify associations with infection risk, reported as adjusted odds ratios (aORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Results: Overall, IPI prevalence remained consistent (43.0% in 2019 vs. 42.2% in 2022), with protozoan infections predominating and helminth infections remaining low (1.6% in 2019 and 2.4% in 2022, respectively). In 2022, children with only one employed parent had significantly higher odds of IPIs (aOR = 3.97; 95% CI: 1.48–10.64; p = 0.006) and pathogenic protozoan infections (aOR = 4.33; 95% CI: 1.41–13.27; p = 0.01). Handwashing before meals was protective in 2019 (aOR = 0.10; 95% CI: 0.02–0.58; p = 0.01) but not significant in 2022. Notably, Giardia intestinalis infections declined, while Blastocystis hominis increased. Conclusion: The stable infection rates and changing species composition suggest that pandemic‐associated shifts in behavior and public health disruptions may have influenced IPIs’ epidemiology. Continued surveillance and targeted hygiene interventions are needed to mitigate the burden of IPIs in schoolchildren.

Source: Journal of Tropical Medicine

DOI: 10.1155/jotm/5950768

Authors: Ai-Wen Yin, Mathobela Mbongiseni, Ting-Wu Chuang, Chia-Mei Chou, Chia-Kwung Fan

Institutions: Taipei Medical University, Ministry of Health

Language: English

Topic: Parasites and Host Interactions

Subfield: Parasitology

Field: Immunology and Microbiology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,630