Prevalence and Knowledge of Soil-Transmitted Helminth Infections in Mandailing Natal, North Sumatera, Indonesia

BACKGROUND: Soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infection remains of public health importance, particularly in developing countries. North Sumatra province of Indonesia has reported high prevalences of STH in many of its districts. AIM: In this study, we aimed to determine the prevalence of STH and evaluated STH knowledge and risk behaviours of school children in Mandailing Natal district. METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional study in two primary schools in Mandailing Natal district, North Sumatera province, Indonesia. Data were collected directly from the subjects using a questionnaire after receiving consent from their parents. A stool sample was also collected to determine the STH status of each subject. Samples were then transported to the parasitology laboratory at Universitas Sumatera Utara in Medan to be analysed by a trained analyst. Kato-Katz method was used to prepare the slides (World Health Organization, 2002). The intensity of infection is classified into light, moderate and heavy infection. RESULTS: Prevalence of STH infections were 76.8% and 87.2% in Singkuand and Sikapas primary schools, respectively. The majority of infections were Ascaris lumbricoides and Trichuris trichiura at a light intensity. Only small numbers of children in the two schools used soap before eating, used soap after defecating, and wear sandal/shoes when walking outdoor. Less than 50% of children also knew the route of transmission of STH. Poorer knowledge and behaviours were shown in children from Sikapas than in Singkuang. CONCLUSION: High prevalence and poor hygiene behaviours found in this study reinforce the need to identify the correct intervention to address this STH problem in the region.