ABSTRACT

In the present study, 142 persons admitted to the Çamlıhemşin Healthcare Center between July 2005 and January 2007, carriage of intestinal parasites was investigated in 93 male and 49 female patients. All of the stool samples were examined by using native- lugol technique. Cellophane tape method was applied to the 0-19 age group. Parasite cysts and/or eggs were found in total of 17,6 % of the patients. Of the patients carrying parasites, 64% (16/25) was female, and 36% (9/25) was male. Giardia intestinalis, Entamoeba histolytica/dispar and Enterobius vermicularis were respectively detected as 20%, 56% and 24%. The highest prevalence rate of the parasites was determined in 0 – 19 age group as 52%. Our findings have been the first epidemiological data detected in this region which has ecological tourism opportunities.

Keywords: Intestinal parasites, Çamlıhemşin Healthcare Center