Background: Helminth infections continue to pose serious health problems in Thailand. The infections of
greatest concern are opisthorchiasis and hookworm.
Objectives: We evaluated the prevalence of these infections. The Thai Ministry of Health established a national
health plan in 1995 to coordinate health plans for the provincial public health sectors.
Methods: A national survey based on probability sampling, interviews, and stool examinations was conducted in
2009 to gather prevalence information of the helminth infections.
Results: We found an overall prevalence of helminthiasis among 15,555 Thai people of 18.1%. The highest
prevalence was found in the northeastern regions of Thailand. By comparison with previous surveys conducted
over the past 5 decades, the prevalence rates have decreased. However, pockets of high infection remain, particularly
in the north and northeast of Thailand.
Conclusions: Targeted intervention by means of educational programs and public health intervention, and
continuing surveillance are indicated.