Enteric Parasites in Children Under Five Years Presenting with Diarrhea at General Hospital Minna, Niger State

Enteric parasitic infections are a significant driver of diarrheal disease morbidity among under-five children in Nigeria, particularly in communities with limited access to safe water and sanitation. This study determined the prevalence and species distribution of enteric parasites among children aged 0 to 59 months presenting with diarrhea at General Hospital Minna, Niger State, in the North Central geopolitical zone of Nigeria. A total of 180 stool samples were collected from consenting caregivers over a six-month period from January to June 2024. Direct wet mount microscopy, formal-ether concentration, and modified Ziehl-Neelsen staining were employed for parasite detection. Cryptosporidium parvum was the most frequently detected parasite at 26.7 percent, followed by Giardia lamblia at 18.3 percent and Entamoeba histolytica at 14.4 percent. Age group analysis showed children aged 12 to 36 months were most affected. Open defecation by household members and lack of handwashing facilities were significantly associated with parasitic infections. The study emphasizes the public health significance of protozoan parasites in pediatric diarrheal disease and advocates for improved water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) infrastructure in Minna. Integration of parasitological diagnosis in primary healthcare settings is recommended. Keywords: enteric parasites, diarrhea, children, Minna, Cryptosporidium.