Parasitic infections in relation to socio-cultural diversity in local populace of Quetta, Pakistan

ABSTRACT

Epidemiological studies were conducted in 160 persons mostly children belonging to age groups from 3 months to 40 years. All these belonged to Day-care Centers and Disabled Centers situated in Quetta. Parasitic survey through faecal samples revealed the presence of eight species of protozoans and six species of helminths. Among these Entamoeba coli 26.19% and Ascaris lumbricoides 7.92% were the most common affecting all age groups and both sexes. Various factors affecting different communities were observed. Lack of knowledge, increasing pollution, faulty sewerage system, lack of personal hygiene, large family number size and joint family systems are accountable towards parasitic infections in these areas