Introduction:

The parasite Angiostrongylus cantonensis is the main causative agent of eosinophilic meningitis. The first case in Ecuador was reported in 2008, and a recent study conducted in the city of Chone, Manabí, Ecuador, determined a high prevalence of the parasite in the African snail (Achatina fulica).

Objective:

Identify the risk factors associated to eosinophilic meningitis caused by A. cantonensis in the city of Chone.

Methods:

Interviews were conducted with 500 residents from the city of Chone and a review was carried out of the medical records at Chone General Hospital.

Results:

It was found that the population of Chone is exposed to the following risk factors: eating raw snails (7.40%), frequent contact between people and African snails both at home (67%) and at work (51.20%), contact between children and snails while playing in gardens (76.80%) and washing food items incorrectly (54.40%). In the areas surrounding people's households the African snail was found in 35.20% and rats in 50.80%. Additionally, 34% of the study sample had symptoms of eosinophilic meningitis. An association was found between the presence of vectors near the houses and the number of symptoms occurring in people.

Conclusions:

It was evident that the population of Chone has habits which expose them to a high risk for eosinophilic meningitis.

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