This study provides an overview of the incidence of parasitic infections in individuals living in rural communities, highlighting the major parasites involved, risk factors, and potential interventions to mitigate the burden. This research work is therefore aimed at determining the incidence of parasitic infections among individuals living in rural areas. This study adopted a propulsive cross-sectional survey design to select 50 individuals ranging from age 12 to 56 years who met the inclusion criteria for the study which were recruited from rural areas specifically Abraka and its environs in Delta state, Nigeria. Stool samples were collected and brought immediately to the laboratory at the department for processing. The specimens were examined both macroscopically and microscopically for the presence of parasites. Parasitological standard examination methods were followed. Of the 50 stool samples, 22 were male and 28 were female. A total of 19 were positive for at least one parasite. Out of the total positive, Ascaris lumbricoides (78.9%) and Trichuris trichiura (21.1%) were present in stool samples. Parasitic infections were more prevalent in the age group 40-49 years (31.57%) and the least prevalent age group 50-57 years was 5.26%. It was also more prevalent in females than males (52.64% and 47.36%, respectively). The present study shows 38% parasitic infection which is still an important health problem in our region. Health awareness programs, personal hygiene, hand washing as well as the use of sanitary latrines to reduce the incidence of parasitic infections should be carried out in these communities.
IJPRAS
