Enterobius vermicularis infection in three refugee camps in Jordan

ABSTRACT

Pinworm infection remains prevalent in many parts of the world. It is suspected in children who exhibit perineal pruritus and nocturnal restlessness. The diagnosis is generally made by the cellophane tape test, and the treatment consists of a 100-mg single dose of mebendazole. To determine the prevalence of pinworm infection in children with perianal itching and to minimize the reinfection rate by a modified method of treatment. 812 children, 5-15 years old children were the subjects of this study. Cellophane tape test was used in 707 children and a swab taken through proctoscope in 105 children of the older age group. Mebendazole in a single dose of 100 gm was used in all parasite positive children. Half of the treated children received rectal enemas made of sodium chloride in tap water and received health education to prevent reinfection and spread of the parasite. 44.8 [55.2%] of the children examined were found to be infected with enterobius vermicularis with the higher prevalence in Jarash camp. The proctoscopic method achieved more significant results than the cellophane tape test [68.6% versus 42.6%] [X2 6.46, P=0.01]. Similarly, mebendazole treatment together with rectal enemas and health education achieved a higher cure rate than using mebendazole alone [81.6% versus 23.3%] [X2 138.6, P=0.0001]. Pinworm infection should be suspected in children who exhibit anal itching and nocturnal restlessness. Following diagnosis, mebendazole should be given and rectal enemas continued for 8 weeks. Health education to the parents and children forms an integral part of treatment