Abstract:

Objective  To investigate the Paragonimus infection status and predisposing factors to this species in primary school students living in the mountain areas of southern Anhui province. Methods  By random cluster sampling method, we conducted a survey on 936 students in Huangshan City by obtaining the peripheral blood samples which were determined for the Paragonimus specific antibodies(IgM and IgG) by ELISA to examine the infection status. Besides, self-programmed questionnaire on the susceptibility to Paragonimus infection was performed to analyze risk factors. Results  The overall infection rate with Paragonimus was 12.07% (113/936), and varied significantly in students from different areas(P<0.05). Single factor analysis showed that the infection rate was dissimilar in different genders, and students with or without history of ingestion of crabs, intake of unboiled water or drinking water from different sources, as well as knowledge and awareness of Paragonimus infection(P<0.05). Conclusion  Higher infection rate with Paragonimus was found in the elementary school students living in Huangshan City, suggesting that this area remains endemic focus of this species. And prevention should be weighed on the male students, and those with habit of eating crabs and poor knowledge on Paragonimus infection, since they are susceptible population.

Key words: Paragonimus, Infection, Susceptible factor