Journal of Bacteriology & Parasitology

Abstract

Intestinal Parasitic Infections in Children: A Comparative Study by Type of Schooling in Keur Soce Rural Area, Senegal

Coumba Sene, Magatte Ndiaye*, Abdoul Karim Mhadji, Mame Coumba Ndiaye, Malick Diouf, Serigne Abdou K M DIA, Babacar Thiendella Faye, Souleye Lelo, Isaac A Manga, Doudou Sow and Babacar Faye

Background: Intestinal Parasitic Infections (IPIs) remain a major public health concern in low-income countries, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. School-aged children are the most vulnerable group, especially in rural settings, where sanitation infrastructure is often inadequate.

Objective: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections among children attending French primary schools and Quranic schools (Daaras) in Keur Socé, a rural community in Central Senegal with limited recent data on parasitic infections. It also investigated environmental and hygiene-related risk factors associated with infection.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted from May 22 to June 15, 2023, among children aged 4-15 years. We collected sociodemographic and environmental data using electronic questionnaires and analyzed stool samples using direct smear, formalin-ether concentration (Ritchie method) and Kato-Katz techniques. Statistical analysis was performed using R software (version 2025.05.00), with overall prevalence, coinfections and associations with contextual factors assessed using Fisher's exact test and logistic regression.

Results: The overall prevalence of Intestinal Parasitic Infections (IPIs) was 32.4%. Protozoan infections dominated, accounting for 29.2% of cases, with Entamoeba coli (18.8%), Giardia intestinalis (6.8%) and Endolimax nana (2.1%) being the most prevalent species. Helminth infections were relatively rare, at 2.4%. Although children attending Daaras had a higher prevalence (35.7%) compared to those in French primary schools (30%), the difference was not statistically significant. Notably, parasitic infections were significantly associated with using wells as a water source (p=0.0269). A borderline association was observed for combined tap and well usage (p=0.079), while other environmental factors showed no significant correlations.

Conclusion: This study reveals a significant burden of protozoan infections among school-aged children in Keur Socé, highlighting the impact of environmental hygiene particularly water sources on the transmission of intestinal parasitic infections. Targeted interventions, such as improving sanitation infrastructure and promoting hygiene education, are crucial for reducing the parasitic burden in rural settings.

Published Date: 2026-02-26; Received Date: 2025-10-15