Parasitological Contamination of Raw Vegetables collected from selected Local Markets in Maysan Province, South of Iraq

Abstract

The Crucial Role of Raw Green Vegetables in Nourishing Well-being. However, lurking within these natural wonders lies an inconspicuous  peril – the potential conduit for intestinal parasites due to potential parasitological contamination. Our ongoing research endeavor is  laser-focused on scrutinizing the prevalence of parasitic protozoa and helminths’cysts and eggs within the raw vegetables available in the  bustling retail markets of Al-Amarah City and the serene Qal’at Saleh District, both nestled in the heart of Maysan Province, Southern  Iraq. During our investigation, we meticulously scrutinized 180 samples representing a diverse array of five vegetable varieties,  encompassing radish, leek, cress, celery, and lettuce. Utilizing established and recognized testing protocols, we rigorously conducted our  examinations. The results illuminated a concerning reality: among the fresh leafy vegetables surveyed in Al-Amarah City, 17.76% bore the  burden of contamination, while in the picturesque Qal’at Saleh District, this figure ascended to a troubling 22.2%. Within these innocent  greens lay the insidious presence of helminth eggs and parasitic protozoan cysts, a revelation demanding our attention and action. Entamoeba histolytica and Giardia lamblia cysts were detected at 8.88% and 1.11% respectively in Al-Amarah City and at 6.66% and 2.22%  in Qal’at Saleh District. On the contrary, Eggs of Hymenolepis nana and Fasciola hepatica were detected at 2.22% and 1.11% respectively  in Al-Amarah City and at 5.55% and 2.22% in Qal’at Saleh District. Eggs of Ascaris lumbricoides were detected at 4.44% and 5.55% in Al- Amarah City and Qal’at Saleh District respectively. Lettuce showed the highest contamination percentage in comparison with other sorts  of vegetables at 27.77% in Al-Amarah City and 33.33% in Qal’at Saleh District with Noteworthy Disparities Evident at a Significance  Threshold of P<0.05: This investigation has reached a decisive verdict, underscoring the latent peril residing within the raw vegetables  retailed in Maysan Province’s local markets. These innocent greens, it transpires, harbor the potential to serve as conduits for intestinal  protozoa and helminths, thereby casting a shadow over the health of those who partake in such produce. The author advocates a  compelling case for the imperative involvement of pertinent authorities. In doing so, the endeavor should revolve around mitigating the extent of parasitic pathogen contamination within plants, a mission that hinges on the twin pillars of vendor education and community  awareness.