Prevalence of Giardia Lamblia Infection in Amman, Jordan

Objectives: To determine the prevalence rate of giardiasis among adults and children, males and females of various socio-economic levels in the city of Amman, Jordan. Patients and Methods: All individuals (510) visiting Primary Health Care Centers (PHCCs), were recruited in the study. For each, stool samples were examined microscopically by the formalin ethyl acetate concentration method, and to study contributing factors, structured questionnaire was filled out. Results: The overall prevalence was 29.6%. For children, adults, females, males was 78%, 19.3%, 57.3%, 22.6% respectively. Socio-economic status was not a significant factor in the prevalence of giardiasis, while age and sex were significant factors. Conclusion: Water, personal hygiene and sanitation are contributing factors in the spread of giardiasis. This study could be of value for health care workers, sanitary engineers and health policy strategies.