A Descriptive Study of Human Fascioliasis in Qaemshahr, Mazandaran Province, Iran: Its Prevalence and Risk Factors
Loading...
Date
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Brieflands
Abstract
Background: Fasciolosis as a zoonotic disease is one of the major health and economic problems with worldwide distribution. In some parts of Iran, the prevalence of human fasciolosis has increased over the past decades. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the seroprevalence of human fasciolosis in Qaemshahr, Mazandaran Province, and determine the epidemiological factors associated with the disease. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 2,418 serum samples were collected from different parts of Qaemshahr, Mazandaran province, and stored at -20°C until further use. The anti-Fasciola IgG antibodies were evaluated using the ELISA method. The demographic factors of the individuals were collected through questionnaires. Results: Anti-Fasciola hepatica antibodies were detected in 60 (2.48%) individuals using ELISA method. Regarding the Fasciola seropositivity, significant differences were observed between age, gender, farmers, consumption of spring water, raw vegetables, anthelminthic drugs, and patients with a history of jaundice (P < 0.05), while no significant correlation were found between anti-Fasciola IgG positivity and consumption of traditional appetizers such as Dalal or processed olive, abdominal pain, patients with gastrointestinal symptoms, in housewives and administrative employees (P > 0.05). Conclusions: We found that 2% of people in Qaemshahr are seropositive for Fasciola infection. Integrated prevention and control strategies are the most effective solution for a decrease in the prevalence of fasciolosis in Qaemshahr, Mazandaran Province.