Suhi Hanif

Abstract Soil-transmitted helminths, like Ascaris, are significant contributors to disease burden in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Infections are associated with growth faltering and mortality in children and are often transmitted through contact with eggs in fecally contaminated soil.

Abstract Soil household floors are common in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) and can serve as reservoirs of enteric pathogens. Cement-based floors may interrupt pathogen transmission, but little is known about pathogen survival or removal from cement-based surfaces. This study investigated the survival of Escherichia coli (E. coli), an indicator of fecal contamination, on cement-based surfaces and evaluated its reduction through common household activities (mopping, sweeping, and walking).