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The soil-transmitted helminths (also called geohelminths) are a group of intestinal parasites belonging to the phylum Nematoda that are transmitted primarily through contaminated soil. They are so called because they have a direct life cycle which requires no intermediate hosts or vectors , and the parasitic infection occurs through faecal ...
STH is often associated with malnutrition in children as it worsens their nutritional status in multiple ways. [2] The worms can induce intestinal bleeding, competition for nutrients (malabsorption of nutrients), frequent anaemia and diarrhoea. [18] Soil-transmitted helminths can also cause loss of appetite. [2]
However, it does not quantify mixed infections, and in practice, is inaccurate for quantifying the eggs of schistosomes and soil-transmitted helminths. [36] Sophisticated tests such as serological assays , antigen tests , and molecular diagnosis are also available; [ 35 ] [ 37 ] however, they are time-consuming, expensive and not always reliable.
Routes of exposure and infection include ingestion of undercooked meat, drinking infected water, fecal–oral transmission and skin absorption. Some types of helminths and protozoa are classified as intestinal parasites that cause infection—those that reside in the intestines. These infections can damage or sicken the host (humans or other ...
It is a type of soil-transmitted helminthiasis and part of a group of diseases called helminthiases. [6] Prevention is by improved sanitation, which includes improving access to toilets and proper disposal of feces. [1] [7] Handwashing with soap appears protective. [8]
S. stercoralis infection is associated with fecal contamination of soil or water. Hence, it is a very rare infection in developed economies. In developing countries, it is less prevalent in urban areas than in rural areas (where sanitation standards are poor). S. stercoralis can be found in areas with tropical and subtropical climates. [6]
Heavy infections can occur in both children and adults, but are less common in adults. [2] They are rarely fatal. [6] Hookworm infection is a soil-transmitted helminthiasis and classified as a neglected tropical disease. [7]
It is the leading cause of anemia and undernutrition in developing countries, while being one of the most commonly occurring diseases among poor people. Hookworm thrives in areas where rainfall is sufficient and keeps the soil from drying out, and where temperatures are higher, making rural, coastal areas prime conditions for the parasite to breed.