Analysis of soil-transmitted nematodes infections in Wanzai County from 2020 to 2024

ZENG Gougou; LI Lan; LU Hongbiao

doi:10.19821/j.1671-2781.2025.05.023

Abstract：Objective To understand the infection status of soil-transmitted nematodes and pinworms in Wanzai County,so as to provide a scientific basis for developing prevention and control measures.Methods The stratified cluster sampling method was used to select the survey population.The modified Kato-Katz thick smear method(two tests for one stool sample)and cellophane tape anal swab method were used to examine the infection status of soil-transmitted nematodes and pinworms,respectively.The infection rate and infection intensity of soil-transmitted nematodes and the infection rate of pinworms were calculated and analyzed.Chi-square test was used for comparison of rates.Results From 2020 to 2024,the infection rate of soil-transmitted nematodes in Wanzai County was 1.89%,with annual infection rates ranging from 1.31%to 3.70%.There was a statistically significant difference in infection rates among different years(χ2=16.503,P=0.002).The dominant infecting species was hookworm.Among the 81 individuals infected with soil-transmitted nematodes,93.83%(76/81)had mild infections,with 2 cases of severe hookworm infection and 4 cases of moderate hookworm infection.Both ascaris and trichuris were mild infections.There were 4 surveillance sites with an infection rate＞3%,with Baishui Township having the highest infection rate of 4.64%(7/151),followed by Sanxing Town with 4.61%(7/152).There was no statistically significant difference in infection rates between different genders(χ2=0.954,P=0.329).The infection rate was higher among individuals over 50 years old and farmers.The pinworm infection rate among children aged 3 to 9 years old was 12.03%(61/507),and there was a statistically significant difference in pinworm infection rates among children in different years(χ2=18.564,P=0.001).The age of children infected with pinworms was concentrated between 4 and 9 years old,accounting for 93.44%(57/61)of cases.There was no statistically significant difference in pinworm infection rates between male and female children(χ2=0.057,P=0.811).Conclusions Wanzai County has not yet reached the standard for controlling the spread of soil-transmitted nematodes,and there is still a risk of transmission.The infection rates of hookworms and pinworms are relatively high.Therefore,it is necessary to strengthen surveillance and public education among children,individuals over 50 years old,and farmers.