Epidemiology of Ascaris lumbricoides and Trichuris trichiura infestations in students at the University Félix HOUPHOUËT-BOIGNY in the south of Ivory Coast

Helminthiasis is a major public health problem in Africa, particularly in Cote d\u0027Ivoire. This study was conducted at the University Felix HOUPHOUET-BOIGNY in southern Cote d\u0027Ivoire. It aims to assess the epidemiological status of Ascaris lumbricoides and Trichuris trichiura infections in students at the University Felix HOUPHOUET-BOIGNY. The survey involved 226 students sampled in 03 university courses. Stool samples were taken. Feces were analysed by the Mini-Flotac method with an flotation solution consisting of analytical salts (NaCl) with a density of 1.2. The results of stool analysis revealed a prevalence of 23.45% for Ascaris lumbricoides infection and 16.81% for Trichirus trichiura infection, respectively. The prevalences of Ascaris lumbricoides and Trichirus trichiura infections did not differ significantly by sex and age group. All infested students had a low infestation density (100 %) for Ascaris lumbricoides and Trichirus trichiura infections. A questionnaire was sent to the students to collect information on the transmission of Ascaris lumbricoides and Trichirus trichiura infections. The main factors of transmission, including toilet attendance and toilet cleaning, were incriminated. This study assessed the level of endemicity of Ascaris lumbricoides and Trichirus trichiura infections at the university and will help to consider appropriate means for the control of these parasitic diseases.