Assessment of the Level of Gastrointestinal Parasites Infection among Food Vendors in Minna, North Central Nigeria

Abstract

Aim: This study was undertaken to access the intestinal parasitic profile of food vendors in Minna Nigeria. Study Design: This is a cross-sectional study conducted in Minna the capital of Niger state, North central Nigeria. Sample sizes were determined at random from the food vendors selling ready to eat food. Place and Duration of Study: Samples were collected from the food vendors in Minna between June and December 2012. Methodology: Samples were assayed for intestinal parasites using direct wet mount and formalin-ethyl acetate sedimentation techniques. Results: This study showed that 104 samples out of 116 (89.66%) were positive for intestinal parasites; 70 samples (67.31%) represented single infections and 34 (32.69%) mixed infections. Ascaris lumbricoides eggs were found in 11 (10.58%), Hookworm 10 (9.62%), Trichuris trichuira 4 (3.85%), Giardia duodenalis 15 (14.42%), Entamoeba histolytica 20 (19.23%), and Taenia saginata 10 (9.62%) respectively. A significant (p<0.05) prevalence was found in females 92 (88.46%) and in mean age of 31 – 40 years 34 (32.69%). Eggs and cysts of intestinal parasites were found more in the food samples such as Beans portage (15.50%), Stew (6.00%), Soup (15.50%), Rice (14.00%), Salad (20.00%), Spaghetti (12.50%) and Chinchin (20.00%) respectively. Conclusion: High prevalence of intestinal parasites in food vendors is a matter of great concern considering the effect which will lead to diseases outbreaks. The provision of food safety measures focusing on personal hygiene and periodical medical check-ups is highly advised.