A case of polyparasitic infection due to hookworm, Strongyloides stercoralis, and Giardia intestinalis: The need for a stringent behavioral modification

Abstract

In developing countries like India, unhygienic practices such as open-air defecation, keeping untrimmed nails, or eating food fallen on the ground have been observed to be important risk factors for parasitic infections such as soil-transmitted helminths. We report a case of polyparasitic infection with hookworm, Strongyloides stercoralis, and Giardia intestinalis in an adult who resorted to open defecation with the "use of open footwear" in the fields despite having a toilet at home, to re-emphasize the harmful health effects of such unhygienic practices, and create awareness for stringent behavioral modifications for leading a healthy life and establishment of a safe and hygienic community.