The Influence of Inadequate Handling Conditions on the Prevalence of Parasites in Commonly Consumed Fluted Pumpkin Leaves (Telfairia occidentalis) in Delta State, Nigeria

Abstract

Vegetables are crucial for a healthy diet; however, when not washed properly, they can act as carriers of protozoa cysts and helminth  eggs/larvae, posing a risk of transmission. The study aimed to determine the prevalence of parasitic contamination of fluted pumpkin  promoted by inadequate handling conditions in Delta State, Nigeria. Samples of Telfairia occidentalis (fluted pumpkin vegetables) were  collected from Effurun town and Otokutu local markets in washed and unwashed conditions and examined for parasitic contamination.  An interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to obtain information on the socio-economic factors associated with parasitic  contaminations on vegetables. The vegetable samples were examined using the simple sedimentation concentration method. The  educational status of the vendors was ascertained, and 75% of the vendors had secondary school education, while 25% had primary  school education. Four hundred seventyeight parasitic contaminants were recovered from the 48 vegetables samples. The species and  stages of parasites detected were Trichuris spp, Moniezia spp, Enterobius vermicularis, Ascaris lumbricoides, Strongyloides spp,  Hookworm eggs, Strongyle eggs Strongyloides stercoralis larvae, Schistostoma spp, Platynosomum fastosum and Eimeria spp. Fifty per  cent (50%) of the produce was not washed, while 50% of the produce was washed before displaying by the retailers. The result from the  paired t-test revealed a significant difference (p<0.05) in total parasitic contamination between washed and unwashed vegetable samples  from both Effurun and Otokutu markets. This study showed that handling conditions of washing and the environment where vegetables  are sold can influence the amount of parasitic load. Therefore, adequate washing and proper handling of raw edible vegetables before  consumption are recommended. The government must create awareness and educate vegetable vendors about the importance of  proper handling and hygiene, as they can play a major role in mitigating public health issues.