Mastering the principles of epidemiological surveillance of helminth infestations requires a comprehensive understanding of the unique characteristics of the epidemiological process, as well as the effectiveness of therapeutic, prophylactic, and anti-epidemiological interventions. Laboratory diagnosis primarily relies on the detection of helminth eggs in fecal samples and duodenal contents. Additionally, serological diagnostic methods are employed. Currently, three immunoenzymatic diagnostic test systems for opisthorchiasis, which detect three specific markers of the disease (IgM, IgG, and CIC) at various stages of infection, are commercially available.

Helminthic diseases constitute the largest group of parasitic (invasive) diseases, caused by parasitic worms or helminths. In humans, over 270 species of helminths have been documented as parasitic. Among these, approximately 40 species are common human parasites, forming foci with significant lesions, while the remainder are animal helminths that affect humans either incidentally or to a lesser extent. In Tajikistan, the helminthic diseases registered include ascaridosis, toxocarosis, enterobiasis, hymenolepidosis, teniarynchiasis, teniasis, opistorchiasis, diphyllobothriosis, trichocephalosis, echinococcosis, and trichinellosis.

In recent decades, the epidemiological situation has undergone a significant transformation, marked by an increase in the prevalence and emergence of new invasions. This change can be attributed to various factors, including heightened migration processes both within and outside the country, environmental degradation, worsening socio-economic conditions, and climate change.

Helminthiasis affects the population of the Republic of Tajikistan in an uneven manner. High incidence rates are typically observed among population groups with lower living standards and cultural conditions. As social factors are closely interrelated, it is often difficult to isolate a single factor that directly contributes to the increased risk of helminth infections.

Nigmatova A.E. – Assistant at the department of medical biology with the basics of genetics named after professor Berdiev N.B.