INCIDÊNCIA DE ECTOPARASITA E ENDOPARASITA NOS CENTROS DE EDUCAÇÃO INFANTIL NA REGIÃO DO CARIRI PARAIBANO:

FORTALECIMENTO DA CONSCIENTIZAÇÃO E PREVENÇÃO DE DOENÇAS PARASITÁRIAS: UMA ABORDAGEM INTEGRADA NO TRATAMENTO FARMACOLÓGICO E SAÚDE PÚBLICA.

Abstract

Introduction: Endoparasitoses and ectoparasitoses represent significant public health issues that affect preschool children, compromising their physical, nutritional, and cognitive development. Objective: To analyze the incidence of ecto-and endoparasitoses in children from Early Childhood Education Centers in the municipalities of Congo, Sumé, and Monteiro (Paraíba, Brazil), as well as to promote awareness and prevention actions among families and schools. Materials and Methods: This field study, descriptive and exploratory in nature, with a quali-quantitative approach, was carried out with children aged 4 to 6 years. Questionnaires were applied to parents/guardians, and stool samples were collected for laboratory analysis, followed by educational activities and the return of parasitological exam results. Results and Discussion: Protozoa (Giardia lamblia, Entamoeba coli, and Entamoeba histolytica), helminths (Strongyloides stercoralis and Enterobius vermicularis), and fungi (Yeast sp.) were identified. The questionnaires revealed limited knowledge among parents/guardians and partial adherence to hygiene practices, highlighting the importance of educational interventions for the prevention of parasitoses. Conclusion: The findings demonstrate that the simple adoption of basic hygiene measures, combined with accessible guidance and regular health monitoring, can significantly reduce parasitosis rates in children. In this context, schools play a strategic role in health promotion, enabling the development of preventive habits from childhood and contributing to the child’s overall development.