Prevalence of pinworm (Enterobius vermicularis) infection and associated factors among preschool children at Ban Thai Samakkhi School, Nakhon Ratchasima Province, Thailand
Keywords:
Pinworm, Associated factors, Preschool children, Scotch tape techniqueAbstract
Enterobius vermicularis (pinworm or thread worm) infection is a common parasitic infestation among preschool children. This cross-sectional study assessed the prevalence of E. vermicularis infection and associated factors among preschool children at Ban Thai Samakkhi School, Wang Nam Khiao District, Nakhon Ratchasima Province, Thailand. All eligible preschool children were recruited using purposive sampling, and 69 children were examined in August 2024 using the Scotch tape technique followed by microscopic examination. Demographic and behavioral data were collected through structured questionnaires completed by parents or caregivers. The overall prevalence of E. vermicularis infection was 24.64% (17/69), with a significantly higher prevalence among females (50.0%) than males (2.7%; OR = 36.0, 95% CI: 4.4-295.0; p < 0.001). Infection was also significantly associated with lack of regular handwashing (OR = 3.9, 95% CI: 1.2-13.1; p = 0.040), thumb-sucking behavior (OR = 15.4, 95% CI: 4.2-56.1; p < 0.001), and lower parental education level (p = 0.021). Age group and sharing utensils were not statistically significant. These findings emphasize the importance of hygiene-focused health education, parental awareness, and regular screening to reduce pinworm transmission in preschool settings, particularly in rural and resource-limited communities.
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