Helminth transmission in simple pit latrines

Abstract

Simple pit latrines often represent the cheapest form of sanitation for poor communities. However, simple latrines lack a concrete slab and are therefore classified as an unimproved form of sanitation. This study collected soil samples in simple pit latrines and analysed them for the presence of helminth eggs; 71% of all collected samples were positive for eggs. The absence of a roof from the latrine was the only factor associated with lower egg concentrations. The findings support the classification of simple pit latrines as an unimproved form of sanitation.

Citation

Baker, S.M.; Ensink, J.H.J. Helminth transmission in simple pit latrines. Transactions of The Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene (2012) 106 (11) 709-710. [DOI: 10.1016/j.trstmh.2012.08.002]

Helminth transmission in simple pit latrines

Updates to this page

Published 1 January 2012