Avaliação parasitológica de alfaces produzidas e comercializadas no município de Campos Novos - Santa Catarina.

The diseases caused by helminths and protozoa transmitted by lettuce (Lactuca sativa) have a great impact on public health, being considered important zoonosis. That is why it is important to take care of the hygiene of this vegetable prior to consumption. The objective of this study was to evaluate the contamination by parasites of importance in public health in samples of lettuce produced and commercialized in Campos Novos city, Santa Catarina state. The study was carried out in two stages. In the first stage, samples of lettuce were collected from supermarkets and fruit plants associated with the city storekeeper's office. These lettuces, according to the packaging description, were produced hydroponically. In the second stage, samples of lettuce were collected from municipal and state schools. The parasitological techniques used were Willis Mollay, Dennis Stones and Swanson, Sheater and Faust. All 26 samples showed absence of parasites, suggesting a low or zero degree of contamination by these agents in vegetables consumed in the municipality. All places where samples were collected had adequate food quality and hygiene. It is always recommended to present the population with the risks of contamination and to emphasize the importance of hygiene and prophylaxis.