Frequency and risk factors for intestinal parasitic infection in children under five years age at a tertiary care hospital in Karachi.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the frequency and risk factors for intestinal parasitic infection in children under five years age at a tertiary care hospital, Karachi.
METHODS: A cross sectional survey of 269 children under five years was conducted at a tertiary care hospital on a pretested self-administered questionnaire. Stool smears were examined under light microscope with direct saline smear and lugol's iodine solution. Parasitic detection was confirmed by formalin ethyl acetate concentration method.
RESULTS: Stool test positive for parasites was found in 185 (68.8%) children. Majority of children 144 (53.5%) were among 4-5 years of age. Less than one third (20.4%) showed moderate malnutrition (p = 0.05) while 44.6% were found to have mild anaemia (p < 0.001). Giardia lamblia was the most common parasite (25.3%) identified. Only 40% of children were found to wash hands with soap after using the toilet (p < 0.001). Eating mud/pica was present in 36% children (p < 0.001). Less than half (48%) of the mothers said that they do not purify drinking water (p < 0.001).
CONCLUSION: The frequency of intestinal parasitic infection was found to be high among children under five years. Major contributory factors were lack of hand washing and drinking unpurified water along with habit of eating mud/pica. This study identifies at-risk population of less than five years of age who could benefit from health education of parents.