Testing of sand from recreational areas and sandpits in Warsaw, for presence of Ascaris Lumbricoides and Toxocara spp.

Introduction: Improper maintenance of the cleanliness of sand in sandboxes can be a source of human pathogenic helminths, including Toxocara spp., Enterobius vermicularis, Ascaris lumbricoides, leading to parasitic infections.

Aim of the study: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the sanitary condition of sandboxes in playgrounds and recreational areas in Warsaw for the presence of Human roundworm (Ascaris lumbricoides) and Toxocara spp. in sand.

Material and methods: 450 sand samples from 90 sandboxes in the city of Warsaw were analyzed. The flotation method was used for the study, and the material was evaluated using a light microscope. RESULTS. The conducted examinations did not reveal the presence of parasite eggs, indicating that hygiene rules were observed and appropriate recommendations were followed.

Conclusions: The analyzed sand samples are free of the tested parasites.