Enterobius vermicularis Infection among Children in Lower Northern Thailand

Abstract

Abstract The prevalence of the pinworm, Enterobius vermicularis, was determined in 4 provinces of lowernorthern Thailand (Phitsanulok, Uthai Thani, Kamphaeng Phet, and Nakhon Sawan) duringJanuary 2008-May 2010. Of the 1,131 children tested, 19.9% were positive for E. vermicularis eggsby Scotch-tape technique. The infection rate was highest among residents of Phitsanulok (25.0%),followed by Kamphaeng Phet (20.3%), Uthai Thani (17.9%), and Nakhon Sawan (13.8%). The agegroup 4-6 years had the highest positive rate. The results indicated relatively high overall infectionrates. Mass treatment and educational programs should be undertaken, to reduce re-infection inthese areas. Keywords: Enterobius vermicularis, prevalence, children, Thailand