PARASITIC CONTAMINATION OF VEGETABLES IN SELECTED LOCAL MARKETS IN ADEN GOVERNORATE, YEMEN

Fresh and raw vegetables may play a significant role in transmission of intestinal parasitic infections to humans. Therefore, this study was conducted estimate the level contamination which are consumed Aden governorate, Yemen. This is descriptive analytic cross-sectional six local markets were randomly selected. A total 216 fresh vegetable samples including parsley (Petroselinum sativum), watercress (Nasturtium officinale), lettuce (Lactuca sativa), leek (Allium porrum), green onion cepa), tomatoes (Solanum Lycopersicum) purchased from selected analysed using direct iodine wet mount smear preparation. Modified Ziehl–Neelsen staining Zinc sulphate flotation method also used. Smears examined by under light microscope. Out samples, 166 (76.9%) contaminated with one or more parasites. Parsley most (97.2%), followed (94.4%), (88.9%), (80.6%), (77.8%), whereas least rate tomato (22.2%). Statistically difference found between different types (P < 0.05). The common parasite Ascaris lumbricoides 75 (24.4%), cyst Entamoeba histolytica/dispar 64 (20.9%), coli 52 (16.8%). Significant reported prevalence species (????< Vegetable collected Dar Saad market, show highest (94.4%) while Al Mansura market showed lowest rate(50.0%). However, rates not significantly for markets. highlighted importance as potential source parasites Prevention methods such proper washing cooking before consumption should be conveyed consumers. In addition, comprehensive health education hygienic practices, hands after handling vegetables, provided sellers