Epidemiology and control of enterobiasis in a developmental center

Objective To determine if enterobiasis could be controlled in a development al center. Design Population-based study. Annual screening of all residents by perianal swabs for enterobiasis and on admission or discharge Treatment of infected residents and their contacts with mebendazole, 100 mg orally, with two doses given 14 days apart. Main outcome measures The number of res idents with enterobiasis and the cost of the program. Results The prevalenc e of enterobiasis fell rapidly and progressively, from 21% before mass medi cation to 1% after 3 years, Conclusion Mass medication of residents with en terobiasis and their contacts was beneficial, harmless, and cost effective.