# Parasite burden: Prevalence and risk factors in Ko-ae, Ubon Ratchathani, Thailand

## TL;DR

This study examines the prevalence of parasitic infections and their risk factors in a rural Thai community, finding that poor knowledge and certain demographics increase infection risk.

## Contribution

The study identifies specific demographic and socioeconomic factors linked to parasitic infections in a rural Thai community.

## Key findings

- 11.58% of participants in Ko-ae were infected with at least one parasite.
- Strongyloides stercoralis was the most prevalent single infection.
- Improved knowledge and perception reduced infection odds by 31%.

## Abstract

Parasitic infections (PI) remain a significant public health concern in Southeast Asia. Understanding local prevalence and associated risk factors is essential for guiding effective interventions. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of PI and to examine the associated risk factors influencing PI in Ko-ae, a rural Thai community.

A community-based cross-sectional survey was conducted in Ko-ae Subdistrict, Ubon Ratchathani Province, northeastern Thailand, from January to July 2021. Stool samples were collected from 941 participants and examined for intestinal parasites using standard parasitological techniques. Structured questionnaires were administered to assess participants' sociodemographic characteristics, health knowledge, and perceptions related to PI. Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with infection.

Overall, 109 individuals (11.58%) were found to be infected with at least one parasite. The most prevalent single infections were Strongyloides stercoralis (4.14%), Opisthorchis viverrini (3.5%), and Taenia spp. (1.59%). Mixed infections involving both food-borne and soil-transmitted helminths were observed in 0.95% of participants. Male sex and older age were significantly associated with a higher risk of infection, while being employed and having a higher monthly income were protective factors. No significant associations were observed with body mass index, education level, or comorbidities. Participants demonstrated limited knowledge and inaccurate perceptions regarding PI. An increase in knowledge and perception scores was significantly associated with a 31% reduction in the odds of infection (odd ratio = 0.69; 95% confidence interval: 0.57–0.84).

PI remain endemic in Ko-ae, with specific demographic and socioeconomic factors influencing infection risk. Knowledge and perception gaps were strongly associated with higher infection prevalence. Targeted health education campaigns, combined with chemotherapy interventions, are warranted to improve awareness, reduce transmission, and support sustainable control efforts in endemic areas.