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A Brief Survey of Intestinal Parasites of Man in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan
Summary
A single stool specimen from each of 125 individuals in Jerusalem and 300 in Amman was examined for the purpose of determining the type and incidence of intestinal parasitism.
The percentage prevalence of the most important pathogenic parasites was: Entamoeba histolytica, 12.0 per cent in Jerusalem and 20.3 per cent in Amman; Ascaris lumbricoides, 77.6 per cent in Jerusalem and 51.3 per cent in Amman; Trichuris trichiura, 78 per cent in Jerusalem and 44.3 per cent in Amman. The indicated incidence of infection between these two cities is not considered comparable because the survey in Jerusalem was conducted during the cooler months of the year, and in Amman during the warmer months when chance of parasite transmission is probably greater.
Considering the prevalence of unsanitary conditions, abundance of houseflies during the summer months, and the close association of the population, the incidence of intestinal parasitism in these areas is considered to be comparatively low. Intense sunlight, drought, and dryness of the soil are probably important factors in the destruction of many eggs and cysts of parasites.
Author Notes
Senior Scientist (R), Division of International Health, U. S. Public Health Service; Parasitologist, University of Hawaii.
Assistant Parasitologist, Central Government Laboratory, Amman, Jordan.