The prevalence of intestinal parasites, undernutrition and their associated risk factors among school-age children in Sekota Town, Northeast Ethiopia: A community-based cross-sectional study

Background and AimsIn developing countries, intestinal parasitic infections and malnutrition are among the most serious health issues affecting school-aged children. They have synergetic consequences. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of intestinal parasites, undernutrition, and their associated risk factors among school-age children. MethodsA community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from April to June 2021 among school-age children in Sekota Town, Northeast Ethiopia. Households were selected using a systematic random sampling technique. Risk factor variables were collected using pretested questionnaires. Stool samples were collected from study participants and examined using a wet mount, formol-ether concentration, and modified acid-fast techniques. The height and weight of children were also measured using a meter and a standard calibrated balance, respectively. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26.0 statistical software. ResultsThe overall prevalence of intestinal parasites among school-age children was 44.3% (178/402). About seven species of intestinal parasites were identified. The predominant parasite identified was E. histolytica/dispar (11.2%), followed by H. nana (9.2%) and G. lamblia (6.7%). The well as a source of drinking water (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 7.93; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 4.38-14.36), habit of open-field defecation (AOR = 7.02; 95% CI: 13.05-12.06), and being undernourished (AOR = 5.67; 95% CI: 2.98-10.79) were independent predictors of intestinal parasitic infections. On the other hand, the overall prevalence of undernutrition was 46.3%. Undernutrition was significantly more likely in children with a dietary diversity score (DDS) of 3 (AOR = 3.73, 95% CI: 2.37-5.88), meal frequency of no more than three times per day (AOR = 2.00, 95% CI: 1.71-2.98), intestinal parasite infection (AOR = 5.25, 95% CI: 3.24-8.52), and no access to school-based feeding (AOR = 3.52, 95% CI: 2.17-7.96). ConclusionThe prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections and undernutrition was high among school-age children in Sekota Town. The results imply the need for strengthening integrated strategies for the reduction of intestinal parasitic infections and undernutrition.