Introduction:

Determine the frequency and risk factors associated with enteroparasites in food handlers in the Municipality of Vinto, Cochabamba - Bolivia.

Material and methods:

A quantitative, descriptive and cross-sectional study was carried out on 82 food handlers. Fecal samples were analyzed by direct coproparasitological examination. Pearson's Chi-square test was used to evaluate the association between parasite prevalence and sex and age group variables.

Results:

The prevalence of intestinal parasites was 72%. Blastocystis hominis 23.2% and Entamoeba coli 9.8% were the most common parasites. No significant associations were found between prevalence and sex (p=0.708) or age group (p value=0.115). 91.7% of food handlers reported washing their hands before handling food, but only 51.2% used gloves.

Discussion:

The high prevalence of enteroparasitosis in food handlers highlights the need to improve hygiene practices and ensure access to drinking water. Strengthening health education and supervision is crucial to reduce parasite transmission.