Objective: To evaluate the current status of intestinal nematode infection in Shanghai and make recommendations for further control activities.
Methods: Retrospective review of the control program was made based on the change of nematode prevalence in Shanghai area since the 1950s, and challenges under the current situation were analysed.
Results: The intervention measures included chemotherapy, health education, sanitary disposal of human excreta and safe water supply. With the control strategy, socio-economical development and the change of farming patterns, the prevalence of intestinal nematode infection in population was reduced by 88.5%, from 62.6% in 1955 to 8.2% in 2000. Among them, ascaris infection decreased by 89.0%, from 52.1% to 6.3%, hookworm infection decreased by 99.0%, from 12.9% to 0.1%, but pinworm infection was still as high as 18.9% in 1999.
Conclusion: Prevalence of nematode infection in Shanghai was considerably reduced. To match it with the current socio-economical development in the Municipality, however, more needs to be done. Sustainable control activities and surveillance are recommended.