Enteric parasites in patients referred to health centers of Qom -Iran 2007-2009

The current study was performed to determine the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections in patients referred to health centers of Qom province. Materials and Methods:This descriptive cross-sectional study was performed on stool specimens from patients referred to the health centers of Qom province.The samples were tested using formalin-ether concentration and Graham methods.Results:Within the 117,403 fecal samples evaluated; protozoa, Giardia, and then Entamoeba coli were the most frequently observed parasites. The lowest infection rate was related to Oxyuris.The three-year prevalence percentage was determined to be 6.5 .Most infections occurred in spring and summer, in the age group below 10, and in residents of suburbs and villages. The Infection rates were almost similar in the two sexes. Conclusion: A significant relationship was observed between the rate of infection and age groups,season, and place of residence (P