Effects of Soil- Transmitted Helminths and Schistosoma Species on Nutritional Status of Children in Mwea Irrigation Scheme, Kenya

Abstract

Aim: Soil-transmitted helminths (STH) and schistosomiasis are a major public health problem in Kenya as well as in many other tropical countries. Intestinal parasite infections have been associated with malabsorption and nutrient loses that can lead to malnutrition. Malnutrition is considered one of the most prevalent conditions among children in rural population. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of STH and S. mansoni parasite infections on nutritional status of school children in Mwea rice Irrigation Scheme.