Prevalence of Intestinal Parasitic Diseases in North Western Region of India

Introduction: Intestinal parasitic infections are among the major public health problems in developing countries like India. They are the important causes of morbidity and mortality and also reduced physical development. Objective: The aim of this study is to assess the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections in patients coming to tertiary care hospital in Jaipur and also to know the awareness among people, regarding practising hygienic practices. Material and Methods: The 2875 stool samples, were examined over a period of 3 years (Jan 2013 – Dec 2015), by doing routine microscopy by observing wet mounts for identification of cyst and eggs and other stages of intestinal parasite. Result: Out of 2875 samples, 148 (5.1%) samples came out positive showing 104 (70%) were protozoal infection and 44 (30%) were helminths infection. Conclusion: In our study, low prevalence of intestinal infection indicates better awareness of personal hygiene and sanitation practise, population is mainly from urban areas that are educated, aware and use disinfected