[Investigation of intestinal parasites among elementary school students in the Mugla province].

OBJECTIVE In this study prevalence of intestinal parasite agents was investigated among elementary school students in the Mugla city centre. METHODS Only 663 relatives among 3560 students allowed us to investigate and obtain fecal specimens of the students. Specimens were examined by native and lugol staining. Repeated samples were requested from suspected cases and evaluated. RESULTS Intestinal parasites were found in 73 stool specimens (11.01%) taken from students. The frequently observed parasite was Ascaris lumbricoides at ratio of 52% (39 students). CONCLUSION It was estimated that, because of the lack of a sewage system in the Mugla province, health education and periodically parasite examinations should be administered to elementary school students and their families in order to raise awareness and prevent parasitic infections.