The Effect of Treatment and Sanitation on Hookworm Infection in Cholburi Province (Central Thailand)

Abstract

Discussion and Summary The results of this study, in general, indicate that a significant reduction of the worm burden is already evident one year after the establishment of control measures. When sanitation constituted the only control measure, the average intensity of infection decreased. Best results were obtained, however, whenever treatment and sanitation were carried out in the same place. No studies on the effect of treatment alone have been carried out since no further evidence is needed of the ineffectiveness of treating a portion of the population without sanitation other than for its educational value and temporary individual relief. This study indicates that continued sanitation and mass treatment represent the best methods to reduce hookworm infection in Thailand to the point where it will cease to be a public health problem.