Impact of parasitic infectious diseases in children: A study in an indigenous community in Ecuador

Abstract

Introduction: Parasitic infections are a crucial challenge for global public health, especially in regions with economic difficulties and limited access to health and sanitation services. Preschool and school-age children are especially vulnerable to these infections because their immune systems are developing, making them more likely to contract pathogens. Objective: Determine the incidence of infectious diseases of parasitic origin in children of preschool and school age in the indigenous community of Santa Rosa de los Épera, province of Esmeraldas, Ecuador, during the months of June to August. Materials and method: Fecal samples were collected from 54 children aged 2 to 12 years in the indigenous community of Santa Rosa de los Épera, province of Esmeraldas. The samples were analyzed to identify the presence of intestinal parasites and a questionnaire was applied to collect information on hygiene habits.  Results: A high incidence of intestinal parasites was observed, with Entamoeba histolytica being the most common parasite with a 92.6% prevalence, followed by Entamoeba coli (31.5%), Ascaris lumbricoides (25.9%) and Trichuris trichiura (13.0%). The lack of hygiene habits and the consumption of street foods were also associated with the presence of intestinal parasitosis.  Conclusion: The research highlights the need to implement prevention measures, such as access to safe drinking water and the promotion of hygiene habits, to reduce the incidence of intestinal parasitosis in the community of Santa Rosa de los Épera, province of Esmeraldas, Ecuador.