Prevalence of Intestinal Parasitosis among Food Handlers in Benghazi, Libya

Abstract

Background: A substantial percentage of food handlers may be the carriers of many intestinal parasites. Handling of food and drinks by infected individuals in the society promotes transmission of intestinal parasites. Objectives: To determine the prevalence of intestinal parasites among food handlers in Benghazi. Material and Methods: A total of 3150 food handlers submitted their faecal specimens to get health clearance certificates to the Central Lab in Benghazi during the period of May 2005 to April 2006. All faecal specimens were routinely examined by direct smear microscopy and concentration method or intestinal parasites. Results: Two hundred sixty one (8.26%) food handler professionals were found infected with intestinal parasites. Prevalence rate was significantly (p<0.05) higher among Sudanese (9.40%) and Egyptian (7.51%) food handlers compared to Libyan (4.96%) food handlers. The most common parasite was E.histolytica (4.4%) among these professionals. Conclusion: Import of intestinal parasites by expatriate workers arriving from neighboring countries, such incidence patterns seems to become a persistent feature in the region. To minimize intestinal parasites, medical health care and revamping hygiene measures of food handlers is necessary.