Prevalence of Intestinal Parasites in Commonly Consumed Vegetables in ONELGA, Rivers State

Leafy vegetables are important diet to the Niger Delta people. It is rich in dietary sources of various immune-boosting natural chemicals which protect human health against diseases. However, it could also be a medium through which humans can acquire infections with human intestinal helminths if taken without observing proper hygiene. This study aimed to ascertain the status of helminth parasites on leafy vegetables cultivated and sold in five (5) rural communities of Onelga. A total of 300 samples of leafy vegetables were purchased randomly across the markets, and parasitological analysis of the samples was done using sedimentation and centrifugal techniques. results of the study revealed a 40% prevalence of contamination of leafy vegetables with various parasite species. Parasites detected were Ascaris lumbricoides, Trichuris trichiura, Giardia lamblia, Entamoeba histolytica, and Hookworm species. Ascaris lumbricoides was the most frequently observed parasite species detected from the study. Higher intensity of contamination with 58.3% was observed in Obirikom community. The monthly distribution of parasite species observed showed that July had higher contamination of 28.6%. Results from seasons show wet season recorded a higher prevalence of 55.7%. Thus, this survey revealed that leafy vegetables cultivated and sold for human consumption could be a risk of intestinal helminth infections. Adequate sanitary measures of washing with water and common household salts should be employed to reduce the load of parasites before cooking and consumption.