Prevalence and species diversity of soil-transmitted helminths (STH) from selected soil samples in Penang Island, Malaysia

Abstract

A total of 90 soil samples were collected from playground, beach, and residential areas in Penang Island, Malaysia. STH parasites eggs were recovered by using McMaster method and sedimentation method which were then examined using the light microscope. It was found that 17.8% (16/90) soil samples examined were identified to be infected with STH parasites in this study. Out of 40 soil samples collected from residential areas, Ascaris sp. eggs (22.5%) were identified most frequently, followed by hookworm eggs (7.5%) and Toxocara sp. eggs (5%). In playground areas, only two soil samples (6.67%) were found positive for Ascaris sp. eggs. Meanwhile, all samples collected from beach areas were negative for STH parasites. It was also found that sandy soil type (85.71%) had the most occurrence of STH parasites compared to loamy soil type (14.29%) whereas none was found in clay soil. In this study, the overall prevalence of STH parasites was consider as moderate in all the three different sampling sites. Environmental contamination with Ascaris sp. and Toxocara sp. could possibly be due to defecation by stray animals and owned animals (pets) at the playground and the residentials areas. Nevertheless, appropriate measures need to be taken in order to improve the environment and basic hygiene through a comprehensive community-oriented health education program along with periodic deworming of the companion animals.