Intestinal Parasites in a Rural Highland Tourist Community of Nepal: Diversity, Prevalence, and Associated Factors in Humans and Livestock

Background: In Nepal, the close and longstanding human-livestock relationship, vital for subsistence and livelihoods, also creates opportunities for potential zoonotic exposure to intestinal parasites, which remain a persistent and under-recognized public health challenge. Objective: This study investigated the prevalence, associated factors, and potential zoonotic implications of intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) in Sermathang, located in Nepal's Sindhupalchok District. Methods: Fecal samples were collected from 122 humans and 37 livestock and analyzed using direct smear methods along with sedimentation and flotation concentration techniques. Results: species. Although individuals involved in farming, those living in non-concrete houses, and those who consumed raw or undercooked meat had adjusted odds ratios (aORs) of 1.03 (95% CI: 0.40-2.63), 1.15 (0.42-3.15), and 1.20 (0.28-5.20), respectively, none of these associations reached statistical significance. Conclusion: ) were detected separately in human and livestock samples from the same households. However, microscopy limitations prevent the assessment of zoonotic transmission, underscoring the need for molecular studies to confirm potential cross-species links.