Health vulnerability and intestinal parasitic infections in migrant adults and children in Arica, Chile: A cross-sectional observational study (2021–2023)

ABSTRACT Background Intestinal parasitic infections are a preventable public health burden and a marker of WASH-related inequities, especially among migrants in precarious conditions. Objectives To estimate prevalence, parasite spectrum, and factors among migrant adults and children in Arica, Chile. Methods Cross-sectional study (2021- 2023) using clinical and survey records from a community programme. Stool microscopy used the Burrows sedimentation method on three samples; paediatric testing included the Graham tape test, modified Ziehl-Neelsen staining, and a Cryptosporidium rapid test. Associations were assessed with bivariate tests and univariate logistic regression. Findings Of 345 participants, 68.1% were parasite-positive; 65.5% had polyparasitism. The most common parasites were Entamoeba coli (31.1%), Giardia duodenalis (30.6%), Entamoeba histolytica/dispar (27.7%), and Enterobius vermicularis (20.0%). Living in shared dwellings increased infection odds (OR 2.76); indoor animals (OR 2.18) and livestock ownership (OR 3.12) also increased risk. Conclusions Parasitic infections are prevalent among migrants in Arica, mainly due to environmental and housing vulnerabilities. Programs should focus on sensitive screening, WASH, and housing interventions.