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International Journal of Applied Research
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ISSN Print: 2394-7500, ISSN Online: 2394-5869, CODEN: IJARPF

IMPACT FACTOR (RJIF): 8.4

Vol. 3, Issue 1, Part J (2017)

Food handling practices and the prevalence of food borne pathogens among food handlers in Embu municipality, Kenya

Food handling practices and the prevalence of food borne pathogens among food handlers in Embu municipality, Kenya

Author(s)
Kariuki JG and Orago SS
Abstract
Food borne diseases constitute a growing public health problem world-wide and a significant cause of reduced economic activity. The objective of this study was therefore to assess the food handling practices and the prevalence of food borne illness amongst food handlers in Embu municipality. A cross-sectional survey involving Food handlers working in commercial eating houses in Embu municipality was conducted.
As a result, a total of 242 stool specimens were analyzed for the most common etiological pathogenic agents; seventy (28.9%) of the food handlers were infected with Salmonella typhi and ten (4.1%) with Entamoebahistolytica. Significant differences were noted in the prevalence of Salmonella typhi among food handlers who were 30 years old and below and those above 30 years (χ² =6.86; p<0.05; df=1). Over 50% of the food handlers had high knowledge and understanding of the food borne illnesses, their symptoms, causes and preventive measures. Significant differences were noted between those with secondary education and above and those with primary education and below on the knowledge of specific food borne illnesses (χ²=9.26<0.05; df=1).
Evidently, food borne illnesses and food handling practices are still a major threat to public health in Embu Municipality. It is recommended that additional in-depth studies be undertaken so as to provide a clear national burden of food borne diseases in Kenya.
Pages: 697-698  |  1227 Views  58 Downloads
How to cite this article:
Kariuki JG, Orago SS. Food handling practices and the prevalence of food borne pathogens among food handlers in Embu municipality, Kenya. Int J Appl Res 2017;3(1):697-698.
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