Assessment of Parasitic Contamination Carried by American Cockroaches (Periplaneta americana) in Dhuluiya, Salah al-Din Province, Iraq

American cockroaches are among the most important vectors of parasitic infections. Limited and unclear data are available on parasitic contamination caused by this cockroach in Iraq, particularly in Salah al-Din Province. This study aimed to evaluate the parasitic contamination carried by American cockroaches in some areas of Salah al-Din Province. A total of 150 American cockroach specimens were collected from 4 locations (homes, schools, hospitals, and restaurants), and parasitic contamination on both internal and external surfaces was examined microscopically using Lugol's iodine. The results show that 100 cockroaches were contaminated with various parasites, with internal surfaces showing higher contamination (78%) than external surfaces. 20 different species of parasites were recorded in the present study: Nectotherus ovalis, Giardia lamblia, Strongyloides stercoralis, Trichomonas hominis, and Enterobius vermicularis had the highest prevalence in all samples, while Trichuris trichiura, Hymenolepis eggs, Diphyllobothrium latum, Taenia sp., and Balantidium coli (trophozoite) were less prevalent. Homes and Schools in Dhuluiya/Salah al-Din Province, Iraq, recorded the highest levels of contamination in this study. In conclusion, this study indicates potential public health risks in the selected areas that may serve as sources of transmission for medically important parasites and that homes and restaurants need improved hygiene.