"Impact of a Model of Educational Intervention on Intestinal Parasitism in Children of Havana. 2021 Second Post-Evaluation and Intervention Study"

Abstract

In order to determine the influence of educational work on hygienic practices and the prevalence of parasitism, an educational intervention on intestinal parasitism was carried out in schoolchildren belonging to six primary schools in the Municipality of Marianao, Havana during the first quarter of 2021. The study included 210 (5 children were chosen from each grade of the six schools), children enrolled from preschool to sixth grade, who were collected stool samples and in the anal region by the Graham method. A survey was applied to the parents to know the hygienic practices and the hygienicepidemiological conditions. The variables studied were the presence of parasitism, the type of parasite, associated symptoms and hygienic practices present. Absolute numbers and percentages were used to summarize the information and tables for its presentation. It was obtained that the prevalence of parasitism was 65.2 % and Enterobius vermicularis was the most frequent. Anal itching and irritability were the predominant symptoms for which treatment was applied. The learning needs and modifications of attitudes were identified, for which a study program was designed, after six months of the educational intervention, the second sample collection and application for the second time of the parent survey was indicated. A significant decrease in parasitism was found, as well as positive modifications in the hygienic practices of the studied population.