Helminthes Essay

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INTRODUCTION Helminthes in the field of microbiology refers to all groups of parasitic worms namely; cestodes (tapeworms), tremadodes (flukes) and nematodes (round worms). Soil transmitted helminthes refers to a group of parasitic diseases in humans transmitted through contaminated soil. These infections are caused by round worms such as Ancylostoma duodenale , Necator americanus, Ascaris lumbricoides, and Trichuris trichuria. Soil transmitted helminthes diseases have become the most common parasitic infections of humans worldwide. Approximately two billion people who account for about one-third of the global population are infected as of the latest estimate and four billion around the world are at risk. These indices surpass even the malarial parasitic disease that has been most prevalent disease at all times. However, this disease is most prevalent in the impoverished especially rural areas of the sub-Saharan Africa, China, Southeast Asia and Latin America. Factors that support the growth and distribution of these parasitic worms include warm and moist climate, poor sanitation and Hygiene, and compromised water supply control systems. Less attention has been paid to this disease although it inflicts tremendous disability and suffering which can be clinically treated hence; this disease is sometimes classified under the Neglected Tropical Diseases. However, in attempt to control and eradicate this disease, this disease is among the London Declaration on Tropical Diseases launched on 30th January 2012 to be controlled and eradicated. TYPES OF SOIL TRANSMITTED INFECTIONS 1. Ascariasis This is caused by large round worm Ascaris lumbricoides. Estimated to be the most widespread soil transmitted helminthes infection and affecting ap... ... middle of paper ... ...ized if adequate attention is given to its transmission and control. Just like every other infectious disease which has great impact on the existence of man, adequate surveillance, good hygiene, sanitation and the use of appropriate method of treatment in cases of incidence can reduce morbidity, mortality and prognosis of the disease situations. As for infections that are not easily contained with available antihelminths drugs available e.g. Trichuris trichuria, programs to generate funds and research foundations should be set up in order to improve ways of treatment and production of more effective antihelminthic drugs. Also the general public especially the people living in endemic areas should be adequately informed by different means of awareness campaign on the implications of soil transmitted infections, predisposing factors and ways of preventing occurrence.

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