Prevalence of intestinal protozoa in communities along the Lake Victoria region of Uganda

The objective of this study was to assess water-borne parasite point prevalence in communities in close proximity to Lake Victoria in Uganda prior to the implementation of a clean water intervention, and to investigate possible associations of water source and latrine access with protozoan prevalence. Utilizing a rapid antigen test, parasite prevalence for Giardia lamblia and Entamoeba histolytica/dispar was determined from stool samples of individuals living in six Ugandan communities. Stool sample test results were stratified by the independent variables of gender, age, community, water source (improved or lake), and presence of a latrine. The impact of the independent variables on parasite prevalence was investigated with bivariable and multivariable analyses. The prevalence of Giardia (12%) was influenced by age and community of residence. The prevalence of Entamoeba (10%) did not significantly vary by the independent variables. The prevalence of intestinal protozoan parasites is significant in Ugandan communities bordering Lake Victoria. Interventions to continue to improve water sources remain a high priority. Rapid antigen testing is likely to be useful in the monitoring of water-borne parasite prevalence.