Trichuris trichiura,
or whipworm, is a very common intestinal helminthic infection, and about one
quarter of the world's population is thought to carry the parasite.
Principally a problem in tropical Asia and, to a lesser degree, in
Africa and South America, a lack of a tissue migration phase and a
relative lack of symptoms characterize whipworm infection.
Trichuris
is also notable for its small size compared with Ascaris lumbricoides
. Only patients with
heavy parasite burden become symptomatic. Vitamin A deficiency has been
seen in patients with
T trichiura infection
.
Poor
hygiene is associated with trichuriasis transmission, and children are
especially vulnerable because of their high exposure risk. This is
especially true in developing countries, where poor sanitary conditions
correlate with heavy disease burden and infections. One study in Nigeria
was undertaken to determine helminth infection status and hygienic
conditions in primary schools. Prevalence of helminth infection was
higher in the schools where hygiene conditions (ie, tapwater,
handwashing soap) were lacking. The study results recommended that the
school health programs include deworming, health education, and
improvement of hygiene conditions.