Prevalência de parasitoses intestinais e esquistossomose em escolares do município de Peçanha, Vale do Rio Doce, MG

Abstract

Intestinal parasites, caused by helminths and protozoa, continue to be considered a serious public health problem affecting people of all ages across all Brazilian regions. They are linked to social and sanitary vulnerabilities, as well as precarious hygiene practices. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the prevalence and factors associated with intestinal parasites in schoolchildren residing in the municipality of Peçanha, Vale do Rio Doce, MG. This is a crosssectional descriptive observational study conducted among students in the public school system of Peçanha, Minas Gerais, Brazil. Stool samples were processed using the spontaneous sedimentation method (HPJ) to identify evolutionary forms of intestinal parasites. All participants signed the Informed Consent/Assent forms (TCLE/TALE), provided a stool sample, and completed a questionnaire to correlate sociodemographic variables, habits/routines, and parasitological history with the exam results. Printed results were delivered to all participants (n=493), and positive cases were referred for appropriate treatment through Family Health Strategy units. The prevalence rate found in this study was 41.4%. The highest observed frequency was for protozoa, particularly the species Endolimax nana (n=58) and Entamoeba coli (n=23). Among helminths, Schistosoma mansoni (n=12) and Enterobius vermicularis (n=10) were the most prominent. A considerable percentage of biparasitized and polyparasitized samples was also observed, notably the association between amoebae (E. nana and E. coli). Analysis of the questionnaire showed that variables such as drinking water source, human waste disposal, the habit of wearing shoes, swimming in water bodies, and previous parasite diagnosis were associated with positivity in the parasitological examination. This study revealed a high prevalence rate of intestinal parasites among schoolchildren in Peçanha, with an emphasis on protozoa, whose transmission occurs through contaminated water and food. The scenario found in this study highlights the need for expanded access to basic sanitation, high-quality water, and permanent health education strategies.