RESUMO
Diarrhea caused by zoonotic pathogens is one of the most common diseases in dairy calves, threatening the health of young animals. Humans are also at risk, in particular children. To explore the pathogens causing diarrhea in dairy calves, the present study applied PCR-based sequencing tools to investigate the occurrence and molecular characteristics of three parasites (Cryptosporidium spp., Giardia duodenalis, and Enterocytozoon bieneusi) and three bacterial pathogens (Escherichia coli, Clostridium perfringens, and Salmonella spp.) in 343 fecal samples of diarrheic dairy calves from five farms in Lingwu County, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, China. The total positive rate of these pathogens in diarrheic dairy calves was 91.0% (312/343; 95% CI, 87.9-94.0), with C. perfringens (61.5%, 211/343; 95% CI, 56.3-66.7) being the dominant one. Co-infection with two to five pathogens was found in 67.3% (231/343; 95% CI, 62.4-72.3) of investigated samples. There were significant differences (p < 0.05) in the positive rates of Cryptosporidium spp. and diarrheagenic E. coli among farms, age groups, and seasons. Two Cryptosporidium species (C. parvum and C. bovis) and five gp60 subtypes of C. parvum (IIdA15G1, IIdA20G1, IIdA19G1, IIdA14G1, and a novel IIdA13G1) were identified. Two assemblages (assemblage E and zoonotic assemblage A) of G. duodenalis and six ITS genotypes of E. bieneusi (J, Henan-IV, EbpC, I, EbpA, and ESH-01) were observed. Four virulence genes (eaeA, stx1, stx2, and st) of diarrheagenic E. coli and one toxin type (type A) of C. perfringens were detected. Our study enriches our knowledge on the characteristics and zoonotic potential of diarrhea-related pathogens in dairy calves.
Title: Caractérisation moléculaire des protozoaires parasites zoonotiques courants et des bactéries responsables de diarrhée chez les veaux laitiers dans la région autonome Hui du Ningxia, en Chine. Abstract: La diarrhée causée par des agents pathogènes zoonotiques est l'une des maladies les plus courantes chez les veaux laitiers, menaçant la santé des jeunes animaux. Ceci est également un risque pour la santé humaine, en particulier les enfants. Pour explorer les agents pathogènes responsables de la diarrhée chez les veaux laitiers, cette étude a utilisé des outils de séquençage basés sur la PCR pour étudier l'occurrence et les caractères moléculaires de trois parasites (Cryptosporidium spp., Giardia duodenalis et Enterocytozoon bieneusi) et de trois agents pathogènes bactériens (Escherichia coli, Clostridium perfringens et Salmonella spp.) dans 343 échantillons fécaux de veaux laitiers diarrhéiques provenant de cinq fermes du comté de Lingwu, région autonome Hui du Ningxia, en Chine. Le taux total positif de ces pathogènes chez les veaux laitiers diarrhéiques était de 91,0 % (312/343; IC à 95 %, 87,994,0), et C. perfringens (61,5 %, 211/343; IC à 95 %, 56,366,7) était le plus répandu. Une co-infection avec deux à cinq pathogènes a été trouvée dans 67,3 % (231/343; IC à 95 %, 62,472,3) des échantillons étudiés. Il y avait des différences significatives (p < 0,05) dans les taux positifs de Cryptosporidium spp. et d'E. coli diarrhéogènes entre les fermes, les groupes d'âge et les saisons. Deux espèces de Cryptosporidium (C. parvum et C. bovis) et cinq sous-types de gp60 de C. parvum (IIdA15G1, IIdA20G1, IIdA19G1, IIdA14G1 et un nouveau, IIdA13G1) ont été identifiés. Deux assemblages (assemblage E et assemblage zoonotique A) de G. duodenalis et six génotypes ITS d'E. bieneusi (J, Henan-IV, EbpC, I, EbpA et ESH-01) ont été observés. Quatre gènes de virulence (eaeA, stx1, stx2 et st) d'E. coli diarrhéogènes et un type de toxine (type A) de C. perfringens ont été détectés. Notre étude enrichit les connaissances sur les caractères et le potentiel zoonotique des agents pathogènes liés à la diarrhée chez les veaux laitiers.
Assuntos
Doenças dos Bovinos , Criptosporidiose , Cryptosporidium , Diarreia , Enterocytozoon , Fezes , Giardia lamblia , Zoonoses , Animais , Bovinos , Diarreia/veterinária , Diarreia/parasitologia , Diarreia/microbiologia , Diarreia/epidemiologia , China/epidemiologia , Doenças dos Bovinos/parasitologia , Doenças dos Bovinos/epidemiologia , Doenças dos Bovinos/microbiologia , Cryptosporidium/genética , Cryptosporidium/isolamento & purificação , Cryptosporidium/classificação , Enterocytozoon/genética , Enterocytozoon/isolamento & purificação , Enterocytozoon/classificação , Giardia lamblia/genética , Giardia lamblia/isolamento & purificação , Giardia lamblia/classificação , Fezes/parasitologia , Fezes/microbiologia , Criptosporidiose/epidemiologia , Criptosporidiose/parasitologia , Escherichia coli/isolamento & purificação , Escherichia coli/genética , Escherichia coli/classificação , Giardíase/veterinária , Giardíase/epidemiologia , Giardíase/parasitologia , Coinfecção/veterinária , Coinfecção/epidemiologia , Coinfecção/parasitologia , Coinfecção/microbiologia , Microsporidiose/veterinária , Microsporidiose/epidemiologia , Clostridium perfringens/isolamento & purificação , Clostridium perfringens/genética , Clostridium perfringens/classificação , Salmonella/isolamento & purificação , Salmonella/genética , Salmonella/classificação , Humanos , Reação em Cadeia da Polimerase/veterinária , Indústria de LaticíniosRESUMO
The enteric protozoan parasites Giardia duodenalis and Cryptosporidium spp. are common cause of diarrhea in pet dogs and cats, affecting primarily young animals. This comparative study evaluates the diagnostic performance of conventional and molecular methods for the detection of G. duodenalis and Cryptosporidium spp. infection in dogs and cats.The compared diagnostic assays included merthiolate-iodine-formalin (MIF) method, lateral flow immunochromatography rapid test (ICT) and real-time PCR; using direct immunofluorescence assay (DFA) as golden standard. The study included the analysis of 328 fecal samples from different dog (n = 225) and cat (n = 103) populations.According to DFA, the overall prevalence of G. duodenalis was 24.4% (80/328, 95% CI: 19.8-29.4), varying from 11.6% (12/103, 95% CI: 6.2-19.5) in cats to 30.2% (68/225, 95% CI: 24.3-36.7) in dogs. The overall prevalence of Cryptosporidium spp. was 4.0% (13/328, 95% CI: 2.1-6.7), varying from 2.9% (3/103, 95% CI: 0.6-8.3) in cats to 4.4% (10/225, 95% CI: 2.1-8.0) in dogs. MIF was only used for the detection of G. duodenalis, which was identified by this method in 22.7% of dogs and 7.8% of cats, respectively. DFA was the most sensitive technique for detecting G. duodenalis in samples from dogs and cats (p-value: < 0.001), followed by real-time PCR. Identification of Cryptosporidium infections was most effectively accomplished by the combination of DFA and PCR technique (p-value: < 0.001). In addition, epidemiological (sex, age, origin) and clinical (fecal consistency) variables were collected to assess their potential associations with an increased likelihood of infection by G. duodenalis and/or Cryptosporidium spp. Breeder dogs were more likely to harbor G. duodenalis infection (p-value: 0.004), whereas female cats were significantly more infected with Cryptosporidium (p-value: 0.003).In conclusion, DFA (alone or in combination with PCR) has been identified as the most accurate and cost-effective method for detecting G. duodenalis and Cryptosporidium spp. in fecal samples from pet dogs and cats. This highlights their importance in both veterinary and clinical settings for enabling prompt treatment and preventing potential transmission to humans.
Assuntos
Doenças do Gato , Criptosporidiose , Cryptosporidium , Doenças do Cão , Fezes , Giardia lamblia , Giardíase , Gatos , Animais , Cães , Doenças do Cão/epidemiologia , Doenças do Cão/parasitologia , Doenças do Cão/diagnóstico , Doenças do Gato/parasitologia , Doenças do Gato/epidemiologia , Doenças do Gato/diagnóstico , Fezes/parasitologia , Giardíase/veterinária , Giardíase/epidemiologia , Giardíase/diagnóstico , Giardia lamblia/isolamento & purificação , Criptosporidiose/epidemiologia , Criptosporidiose/diagnóstico , Cryptosporidium/isolamento & purificação , Técnica Direta de Fluorescência para Anticorpo/veterinária , Feminino , Masculino , Sensibilidade e Especificidade , Reação em Cadeia da Polimerase em Tempo Real/veterinária , PrevalênciaRESUMO
Cryptosporidium spp. es un protozoario productor de diarrea. Los pacientes inmunocomprometidos pueden desarrollar formas clínicas graves y persistentes. Se describen las características de pacientes con enfermedad de base asociada a inmunosupresión (EAI) con infección por Cryptosporidium spp. (IC) atendidos en un hospital pediátrico referencial de Argentina entre los años 2018 y 2023. Se analizaron datos demográficos, EAI, características de la diarrea y coinfecciones. Se incluyeron 30 pacientes con EAI e IC. La mayoría registró trasplante de órgano sólido, neoplasia hematológica e inmunodeficiencia primaria. Dieciocho presentaron diarrea persistente al momento del diagnóstico. Seis pacientes registraron coinfecciones. Se debe considerar la criptosporidiosis en el diagnóstico diferencial de enfermedad diarreica aguda o persistente en niños con distintos tipos de EAI, como el trasplante de órgano sólido, neoplasias hematológicas e inmunodeficiencias primarias.
Cryptosporidium spp. is a diarrhea-causing protozoan. Immunocompromised patients may develop severe and persistent clinical forms. Here we describe the characteristics of patients with an underlying disease associated with immunosuppression (DAI) and Cryptosporidium spp. infection seen at a referral children's hospital in Argentina between 2018 and 2023. Demographic data, DAI, diarrhea characteristics, and co-infections were analyzed. A total of 30 patients with DAI and cryptosporidiosis were included. Most of them had undergone a solid organ transplant, had a hematologic neoplasm, or primary immunodeficiency. Persistent diarrhea was observed in 18 patients at the time of diagnosis. Co-infections were recorded in 6 patients. Cryptosporidiosis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of acute or persistent diarrhea in children with different types of DAI, such as solid organ transplant, hematologic neoplasms, and primary immunodeficiencies.
Assuntos
Humanos , Masculino , Feminino , Pré-Escolar , Criança , Hospedeiro Imunocomprometido , Criptosporidiose/diagnóstico , Criptosporidiose/epidemiologia , Hospitais Pediátricos/estatística & dados numéricos , Argentina/epidemiologia , Estudos Retrospectivos , Diarreia/etiologia , Diarreia/parasitologia , Diarreia/epidemiologia , Coinfecção/epidemiologiaRESUMO
BACKGROUND: Cryptosporidium infection is one of the major causes of acute gastroenteritis and diarrhoea caused by a protozoan parasite affecting vertebrates and humans. The disease is prevalent in cases of immunocompromised individuals. Despite the impact of the diseases in calf and hospitalized humans, well-documented studies are not available in the study area. OBJECTIVES: The objectives of this study were to determine the prevalence of Cryptosporidium infection in calves and hospitalized humans and assess the major associated risk factors associated with Cryptosporidium infection in calves and hospitalized humans. METHOD: A cross-sectional study was conducted from November 2020 to March 2021 on calf and human Cryptosporidium infection in Libo Kemkem District, North West Ethiopia. A total of 193 calves and 122 human stool samples admitted to the hospital were used for this study. Three kebeles were selected purposely, and individual calves were selected using a simple random sampling method. A number of sampled calves were allocated proportionally to the selected kebeles. Human samples were collected using a systematic random sampling method. Faecal and stool samples were examined using a modified Ziehl-Neelsen staining method. RESULT: The overall prevalence of calf and human Cryptosporidium infection found in this study was 15.5% and 11.5%, respectively. Age of calf, breed, body condition, water source, faecal consistency and hygienic condition were found significantly (p < 0.05) associated with Cryptosporidium infection in the calf. Similarly, the source of potable water, immunocompromisation and contact with domestic animals were found to be significantly (p < 0.05) associated with Cryptosporidium infection in humans. CONCLUSION: There was a higher prevalence of Cryptosporidium infection in calves and humans in Libo Kemkem District. Therefore, the implementation of proper prevention methods of zoonotic Cryptosporidium infection between calf and human beings through significant risk factors is mandatory. Furthermore, additional studies to investigate the levels of economic importance of the disease should be conducted.
Assuntos
Doenças dos Bovinos , Criptosporidiose , Criptosporidiose/epidemiologia , Criptosporidiose/parasitologia , Animais , Etiópia/epidemiologia , Bovinos , Prevalência , Fatores de Risco , Humanos , Estudos Transversais , Doenças dos Bovinos/epidemiologia , Doenças dos Bovinos/parasitologia , Masculino , Feminino , Cryptosporidium/isolamento & purificação , Fezes/parasitologia , Adolescente , Hospitalização/estatística & dados numéricos , Adulto , CriançaRESUMO
Cryptosporidium and Giardia duodenalis are common gastrointestinal protozoan parasites that cause diarrhea in humans and animals. Although dogs in animal shelters in South Korea can be reintroduced into human society as companions, no continuous investigations have been conducted on the prevalence and genetic characteristics of the protozoan parasites. In the present study, 345 fecal samples from dogs were obtained from animal shelters in six provinces between January and December 2022. The prevalence of Cryptosporidium and G. duodenalis were molecularly identified at the 18S rRNA gene. Cryptosporidium canis isolates were subtyped at the gp60 locus, and G. duodenalis assemblages were identified at the tpi, bg and gdh loci. Overall, 6.67% of the fecal samples tested positive for Cryptosporidium spp. and two species were identified: C. canis (5.51%) and Cryptosporidium parvum (1.16%). Significant regional differences in prevalence were identified for C. canis. Subtyping analysis of C. canis isolates revealed a predominance of the subtype families XXa and XXe over XXb, and XXc. G. duodenalis was detected in 17.68% of the samples, and significant regional differences were identified; its prevalence was also significantly highest in diarrhoeic animals. Molecular characterization of G. duodenalis reveal that most isolates belonged to the canine-specific assemblages C and D. The present results can contribute to further insights into the prevalence and genotypes of Cryptosporidium and G. duodenalis in shelter dogs in South Korea.
Assuntos
Criptosporidiose , Cryptosporidium , Doenças do Cão , Fezes , Genótipo , Giardia lamblia , Giardíase , Animais , Cães , República da Coreia/epidemiologia , Criptosporidiose/epidemiologia , Criptosporidiose/parasitologia , Doenças do Cão/parasitologia , Doenças do Cão/epidemiologia , Giardíase/veterinária , Giardíase/epidemiologia , Giardíase/parasitologia , Cryptosporidium/genética , Cryptosporidium/classificação , Cryptosporidium/isolamento & purificação , Prevalência , Giardia lamblia/genética , Giardia lamblia/isolamento & purificação , Giardia lamblia/classificação , Fezes/parasitologia , RNA Ribossômico 18S/genética , RNA Ribossômico 18S/análiseRESUMO
Cryptosporidiosis has previously been reported in animals, humans, and water sources in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). However, most reports were only to the genus level, or generically identified as cryptosporidiosis. We aimed to investigate the genetic diversity of Cryptosporidium species occurring in diarrhetic ungulates which were brought to the Central Veterinary Research Laboratory (CVRL) in Dubai. Using a combination of microscopic and molecular methods, we identified five species of Cryptosporidium occurring among ungulates in the UAE, namely C. parvum, C. hominis, C. xiaoi, C. meleagridis, and C. equi. Cryptosporidium parvum was the most prevalent species in our samples. Furthermore, we identified subtypes of C. parvum and C. hominis, which are involved in both human and animal cryptosporidiosis. This is also the first reported occurrence of Cryptosporidium spp. in the Arabian Tahr, to our knowledge. Since the animals examined were all in contact with humans, the possibility of zoonotic spread is possible. Our study correlates with previous reports in the region, building upon the identification of Cryptosporidium sp. However, there is a need to further investigate the endemic populations of Cryptosporidium, including more hosts, sampling asymptomatic animals, and location data.
Assuntos
Criptosporidiose , Cryptosporidium , Diarreia , Variação Genética , Emirados Árabes Unidos/epidemiologia , Animais , Criptosporidiose/parasitologia , Criptosporidiose/epidemiologia , Cryptosporidium/genética , Cryptosporidium/classificação , Cryptosporidium/isolamento & purificação , Diarreia/veterinária , Diarreia/parasitologia , Diarreia/epidemiologia , Fezes/parasitologia , Bovinos , Filogenia , Cabras/parasitologia , DNA de Protozoário/genéticaRESUMO
BACKGROUND: Calf diarrhea is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in the livestock sector worldwide and it can be caused by multiple infectious agents. In Ethiopia, cattle are the most economically important species within the livestock sector, but at the same time the young animals suffer from high rates of morbidity and mortality due to calf diarrhea. However, studies including both screening and molecular characterization of bovine enteric pathogens are lacking. Therefore, we aimed to both detect and molecularly characterize four of the major enteric pathogens in calf diarrhea, Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (E. coli K99 +), Cryptosporidium spp., rotavirus A (RVA), and bovine coronavirus (BCoV) in calves from central Ethiopia. Diarrheic and non-diarrheic calves were included in the study and fecal samples were analyzed with antigen-ELISA and quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR). Positive samples were further characterized by genotyping PCRs. RESULTS: All four pathogens were detected in both diarrheic and non-diarrheic calves using qPCR and further characterization showed the presence of three Cryptosporidium species, C. andersoni, C. bovis and C. ryanae. Furthermore, genotyping of RVA-positive samples found a common bovine genotype G10P[11], as well as a more unusual G-type, G24. To our knowledge this is the first detection of the G24 RVA genotype in Ethiopia as well as in Africa. Lastly, investigation of the spike gene revealed two distinct BCoV strains, one classical BCoV strain and one bovine-like CoV strain. CONCLUSIONS: Our results show that Cryptosporidium spp., E. coli K99 + , RVA and BCoV circulate in calves from central Ethiopia. Furthermore, our findings of the rare RVA G-type G24 and a bovine-like CoV demonstrates the importance of genetic characterization.
Assuntos
Doenças dos Bovinos , Coronavirus Bovino , Cryptosporidium , Diarreia , Fezes , Rotavirus , Animais , Bovinos , Etiópia/epidemiologia , Diarreia/veterinária , Diarreia/virologia , Diarreia/microbiologia , Diarreia/parasitologia , Doenças dos Bovinos/virologia , Doenças dos Bovinos/epidemiologia , Doenças dos Bovinos/microbiologia , Doenças dos Bovinos/parasitologia , Fezes/virologia , Fezes/parasitologia , Fezes/microbiologia , Rotavirus/genética , Rotavirus/isolamento & purificação , Rotavirus/classificação , Cryptosporidium/isolamento & purificação , Cryptosporidium/genética , Cryptosporidium/classificação , Coronavirus Bovino/genética , Coronavirus Bovino/isolamento & purificação , Escherichia coli Enterotoxigênica/isolamento & purificação , Escherichia coli Enterotoxigênica/genética , Genótipo , Criptosporidiose/epidemiologia , Infecções por Rotavirus/veterinária , Infecções por Rotavirus/epidemiologia , Infecções por Rotavirus/virologia , Infecções por Coronavirus/veterinária , Infecções por Coronavirus/virologia , Infecções por Coronavirus/epidemiologia , Reação em Cadeia da Polimerase em Tempo Real/veterinária , Infecções por Escherichia coli/veterinária , Infecções por Escherichia coli/epidemiologia , Infecções por Escherichia coli/microbiologiaRESUMO
BACKGROUND: Cryptosporidium spp. is a ubiquitous, globally distributed intestinal protozoan infecting humans and at least 260 animal hosts. Due to close human contact with pet dogs and identification of zoonotic Cryptosporidium species and subtypes in these animals, dog health is not only a veterinarian issue but also a public health issue. This study aimed to understand occurrence and genetic characterization at both genotype and subtype levels in pet dogs in Yunnan Province, China. RESULTS: A total of 589 fresh fecal specimens were collected from adult pet dogs in the rural areas of eight cities/autonomous prefectures of Yunnan Province, China. 16 fecal specimens were positive for Cryptosporidium spp. by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification and sequence analysis of the small subunit ribosomal RNA (SSU rRNA) gene, with an average occurrence rate of 2.7% (16/589) being observed. Three zoonotic Cryptosporidium species were identified: C. parvum (n = 7), C. suis (n = 5) and C. canis (n = 4). At the 60-kDa glycoprotein (gp60) locus, only three C. parvum and two C. canis specimens were successfully amplified and sequenced, with subtype IIaA17G2R1 (n = 3) and subtypes XXa4 (n = 1) and XXa5 (n = 1) being identified, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The present finding of three zoonotic Cryptosporidium species in dogs implied that dogs infected with Cryptosporidium spp. may pose a threat to human health. C. suis was identified in dogs in this study for the first time, expanding the host range of this species. Identification of C. parvum subtype IIaA17G2R1 and C. canis subtypes XXa4 and XXa5 will be helpful to explore the source attribution of infection/contamination and assess the transmission dynamics of C. parvum and C. canis in the investigated areas in the future.
Assuntos
Criptosporidiose , Cryptosporidium , Doenças do Cão , Fezes , Genótipo , Animais de Estimação , Filogenia , Cães , Animais , Cryptosporidium/genética , Cryptosporidium/classificação , Cryptosporidium/isolamento & purificação , China/epidemiologia , Criptosporidiose/epidemiologia , Criptosporidiose/parasitologia , Fezes/parasitologia , Doenças do Cão/parasitologia , Doenças do Cão/epidemiologia , Animais de Estimação/parasitologia , DNA de Protozoário/genética , Análise de Sequência de DNA , Reação em Cadeia da Polimerase , DNA Ribossômico/genética , Dados de Sequência MolecularRESUMO
Respiratory cryptosporidiosis is considered an occasional, late-stage complication of HIV/AIDS. This study aimed to assess the clinical importance of respiratory cryptosporidiosis in children with diarrhea and respiratory symptoms at Mulago Hospital, Kampala, Uganda. Children aged 9 to 36 months presenting with diarrhea and cough or unexplained tachypnea (N = 1,918) were screened for fecal Cryptosporidium using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Children with positive stool samples were eligible for further diagnostic tests, including sputum induction. Sputum samples were subjected to PCR for Cryptosporidium, as well as routine microbiology (culture and gram stain) and auramine stain for tuberculosis. Regression analyses were used to investigate 1) factors associated with respiratory cryptosporidiosis and 2) whether respiratory cryptosporidiosis was independently associated with hospitalization. Prevalence of enteric cryptosporidiosis was 260/1,918 (13.6%) (>80% Cryptosporidium hominis). Of the 236 children who had sputum available for analysis, 62 (26.3%) had Cryptosporidium in the sputum, only two of whom had HIV infection. Children with Cryptosporidium in the sputum were more likely to have abnormal oxygen saturation at presentation (SpO2 <96%; P = 0.053); no other differences in frequency or severity of respiratory signs were noted. No alternative bacterial cause of respiratory symptoms was identified in 37.7% of children with respiratory cryptosporidiosis, compared with 23.6% of children without (P = 0.04). Sputum-positive children had twice the odds of hospitalization compared with children without Cryptosporidium infection at this site (adjusted odds ratio = 2.08, 95% confidence interval: 1.02-4.22; P = 0.043). Respiratory tract involvement is common in children with intestinal cryptosporidiosis who are experiencing respiratory symptoms. Such children may experience some degree of respiratory compromise and may be at increased risk for hospitalization.
Assuntos
Criptosporidiose , Cryptosporidium , Diarreia , Humanos , Criptosporidiose/epidemiologia , Criptosporidiose/complicações , Criptosporidiose/diagnóstico , Uganda/epidemiologia , Diarreia/parasitologia , Diarreia/epidemiologia , Lactente , Masculino , Feminino , Pré-Escolar , Estudos Transversais , Cryptosporidium/isolamento & purificação , Fezes/parasitologia , Prevalência , Escarro/parasitologia , Escarro/microbiologia , Infecções por HIV/complicações , Infecções por HIV/epidemiologia , Hospitalização , Relevância ClínicaRESUMO
This review explores our understanding of Cryptosporidium species and Giardia duodenalis distribution in Middle East and North African (MENA) water resources. Results emphasize that Cryptosporidium species (sp.) and G. duodenalis (oo)cysts are present in distinct categories of water in ten MENA countries. Cryptosporidium sp. proportional prevalence in the MENA region was 24.5% (95% CI 16.3-33.8), while G. duodenalis prevalence was 37.7% (95% CI 21.9-55.1). Raw wastewater and surface water were the water categories most significantly impacted. Both parasites were reported in the various types of MENA drinking waters. The most frequent species/genotypes reported were C. hominis, C. parvum, and G. duodenalis assemblage A. Despite the high prevalence of (oo)cysts reported, we should consider the absence of waterborne outbreaks. This indicates significant underestimation and underreporting of both parasites in MENA. Stakeholders should apply water contamination legislation to eradicate Cryptosporidium sp. and G. duodenalis (oo)cysts from water resources/categories.
Assuntos
Cryptosporidium , Giardia lamblia , Cryptosporidium/isolamento & purificação , Giardia lamblia/isolamento & purificação , Oriente Médio/epidemiologia , África do Norte/epidemiologia , Criptosporidiose/epidemiologia , Criptosporidiose/parasitologia , Humanos , Recursos Hídricos , Giardíase/epidemiologia , Giardíase/parasitologia , Água Potável/parasitologia , Abastecimento de ÁguaRESUMO
The domestic chinchilla (Chinchilla lanigera) is kept as a pet and previous studies suggest that it may play an important role as a source of zoonotic parasites, including Giardia intestinalis, Cryptosporidium spp. and microsporidia. In this study, we examined the occurrence and genetic diversity of above mentioned parasites in pet chinchillas in the Czech Republic by PCR/sequencing of the 18S rRNA, TPI, and ITS genes. Of 149 chinchillas from 24 breeders, 91.3â¯% were positive for G. intestinalis, 8.1â¯% for Cryptosporidium spp., 2.0â¯% for Encephalitozoon spp., and 5.4â¯% for E. bieneusi. Molecular analyses revealed presence of G. intestinalis assemblage B, C. ubiquitum (XIIa family), E. bieneusi genotypes D, SCF2, and, CHN-F1, and E. intestinalis. The infection intensity of G. intestinalis determined by qRT-PCR reached up to 53,978 CPG, C. ubiquitum up to 1409 OPG, E. intestinalis up to 1124 SPG, and E. bieneusi up to 1373 SPG. Only two chinchillas with C. ubiquitum and five with G. intestinalis had diarrhoea at the time of the screening. Three chinchillas in the long-term study were consistently positive for G. intestinalis, with intermittent excretion of C. ubiquitum, E. intestinalis, and E. bieneusi over 25 weeks. The findings indicate that chinchillas are frequently infected with zoonotic parasitic protists, but that these infections rarely show clinical signs. The lack of visible signs could reduce the vigilance of pet owners when handling their chinchillas, increasing the risk of transmission within breeding groups and possibly to humans.
Assuntos
Chinchila , Cryptosporidium , Encephalitozoon , Encefalitozoonose , Enterocytozoon , Giardia lamblia , Giardíase , Microsporidiose , Animais de Estimação , Zoonoses , Animais , Chinchila/parasitologia , Encephalitozoon/genética , Encephalitozoon/isolamento & purificação , Encephalitozoon/classificação , Zoonoses/parasitologia , Cryptosporidium/genética , Cryptosporidium/classificação , Cryptosporidium/isolamento & purificação , Giardíase/veterinária , Giardíase/parasitologia , Giardia lamblia/genética , Giardia lamblia/isolamento & purificação , Giardia lamblia/classificação , República Tcheca/epidemiologia , Encefalitozoonose/veterinária , Encefalitozoonose/epidemiologia , Encefalitozoonose/microbiologia , Enterocytozoon/genética , Enterocytozoon/isolamento & purificação , Microsporidiose/veterinária , Microsporidiose/epidemiologia , Criptosporidiose/parasitologia , Criptosporidiose/epidemiologia , RNA Ribossômico 18S/genética , Fezes/parasitologia , Fezes/microbiologia , MasculinoRESUMO
Snakes are sometimes regarded as pets and are used in traditional Chinese medicine. Cryptosporidium spp. are frequently identified in snakes, representing an important pathogen and causing gastrointestinal diseases. Current data indicate that risk factors for infection and patterns of clinical symptom presentation may differ among Cryptosporidium spp. To better understand the infection status by Cryptosporidium spp., fecal samples were collected from 603 asymptomatic and 147 symptomatic snakes in 26 provinces of China. These samples came from Elaphe guttata, Elaphe obsoleta, Pituophis melanoleucus, Thamnophis sirtalis, Lampropeltis getulus, and Heterodon nasicus. The partial small subunit (SSU) rRNA gene was amplified using nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to investigate the infection rate of Cryptosporidium spp., and to assess evolutionary relationships and genetic characterization. A prevalence of 20% was recorded in asymptomatic snakes, with age identified as a significant risk factor. In contrast, 70% of symptomatic snakes were positive for Cryptosporidium spp., with Cryptosporidium serpentis and Cryptosporidium varanii (syn. C. saurophilum). Further analysis revealed a potential association between C. serpentis and regurgitation, and C. varanii and diarrhea, while neither species was linked to flatulence. To our knowledge, this is the first study to report Cryptosporidium spp. and associated clinical signs in symptomatic snakes in China. This study aims to enhance the understanding of Cryptosporidium infections, risk factors, and clinical manifestations in snakes, providing data crucial for the control and prevention of cryptosporidiosis.
Title: Cryptosporidium spp. chez les serpents captifs de 26 provinces de Chine : prévalence, caractérisation moléculaire et symptômes. Abstract: Les serpents sont parfois considérés comme animaux de compagnie et sont utilisés en médecine traditionnelle chinoise. Des Cryptosporidium spp. sont fréquemment identifiés chez les serpents, ont un rôle d'agent pathogène important et provoquent des maladies gastro-intestinales. Les données actuelles indiquent que les facteurs de risque d'infection et les schémas de présentation des symptômes cliniques peuvent varier en fonction des espèces de Cryptosporidium. Pour mieux comprendre l'état d'infection par Cryptosporidium spp., des échantillons fécaux ont été collectés auprès de 603 serpents asymptomatiques et 147 serpents symptomatiques dans 26 provinces de Chine. Ces échantillons provenaient d'Elaphe guttata, Elaphe obsoleta, Pituophis melanoleucus, Thamnophis sirtalis, Lampropeltis getulus et Heterodon nasicus. Le gène de l'ARNr de la petite sous-unité partielle (SSU) a été amplifié à l'aide d'une réaction en chaîne par polymérase (PCR) imbriquée pour étudier le taux d'infection par Cryptosporidium spp. et évaluer les relations évolutives et la caractérisation génétique. Une prévalence de 20 % a été trouvée chez les serpents asymptomatiques, l'âge étant identifié comme un facteur de risque important. En revanche, 70 % des serpents symptomatiques étaient positifs à Cryptosporidium spp. avec Cryptosporidium serpentis et Cryptosporidium varanii (syn. C. saurophilum). Une analyse plus approfondie a révélé une association potentielle entre C. serpentis et la régurgitation, et C. varanii et la diarrhée, alors qu'aucune des deux espèces n'était liée aux flatulences. À notre connaissance, il s'agit ici de la première étude à signaler la présence de Cryptosporidium spp. et les signes cliniques associés chez des serpents symptomatiques en Chine. Cette étude vise à améliorer la compréhension des infections à Cryptosporidium, des facteurs de risque et des manifestations cliniques chez les serpents, en fournissant des données cruciales pour le contrôle et la prévention de la cryptosporidiose.
Assuntos
Criptosporidiose , Cryptosporidium , Fezes , Serpentes , Animais , Cryptosporidium/genética , Cryptosporidium/isolamento & purificação , Cryptosporidium/classificação , Criptosporidiose/epidemiologia , Criptosporidiose/parasitologia , China/epidemiologia , Prevalência , Fezes/parasitologia , Serpentes/parasitologia , Filogenia , Fatores de Risco , Reação em Cadeia da Polimerase/veterinária , Masculino , Feminino , DNA de Protozoário/isolamento & purificação , Diarreia/parasitologia , Diarreia/veterinária , Diarreia/epidemiologia , Animais de Estimação/parasitologiaRESUMO
Cryptosporidiosis is a parasitic disease caused by the protozoan Cryptosporidium in vertebrates. In livestock, especially ruminants, infants develop diarrheal syndromes. The infection is common worldwide , including Iran, where it is reported in several species. Morphological diagnosis of Cryptosporidium species is associated with many limitations and has no taxonomic value on its own, so the use of molecular methods can overcome these limitations to some extent. The present aims at microscopic, molecular and antigen detection and isolation of Cryptosporidium parvum parasites. Firstly, 300 samples were collected from different parts of Iran. Subsequently oocysts from feces were purified by the method of Casemore et al. using the flotation technique and stained by the modified Ziehl-Neelsen method (Henriksen method) and identified by diagnostic keys. ELISA test was also performed on the samples with results ranging from 1 to 4 positive. The results of our study show that, of the 300 cases tested for Cryptosporidium, 48 cases (16%) and 54 (18%) were positive in ELISA and PCR, respectively. Microscopic evaluation also mainly confirmed the ELISA results. These cases were collected in summer, autumn, and winter, with, more than 50% of the positive cases found among the samples collected in autumn. In addition, 54 positive cases were found by PCR test, which is 6 cases more than ELISA results. Finally, the results of PCR detection and ELISA were subjected to chi-square analysis, where no significant difference was found between the collected data (p=0.0587).
Assuntos
Doenças dos Bovinos , Criptosporidiose , Cryptosporidium parvum , Diarreia , Ensaio de Imunoadsorção Enzimática , Criptosporidiose/parasitologia , Criptosporidiose/epidemiologia , Cryptosporidium parvum/isolamento & purificação , Irã (Geográfico)/epidemiologia , Animais , Doenças dos Bovinos/parasitologia , Doenças dos Bovinos/epidemiologia , Doenças dos Bovinos/diagnóstico , Bovinos , Ensaio de Imunoadsorção Enzimática/veterinária , Diarreia/veterinária , Diarreia/parasitologia , Diarreia/epidemiologia , Antígenos de Protozoários/análise , Reação em Cadeia da Polimerase/veterinária , Fezes/parasitologiaRESUMO
Cryptosporidium and Giardia are important parasitic protozoa due to their zoonotic potential and impact on human health, and have often caused waterborne outbreaks of disease. Detection of (oo)cysts in water matrices is challenging and extremely costly, thus only few countries have legislated for regular monitoring of drinking water for their presence. Several attempts have been made trying to investigate the association between the presence of such (oo)cysts in waters with other biotic or abiotic factors, with inconclusive findings. In this regard, the aim of this study was the development of an holistic approach leveraging Machine Learning (ML) and eXplainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI) techniques, in order to provide empirical evidence related to the presence and prediction of Cryptosporidium oocysts and Giardia cysts in water samples. To meet this objective, we initially modelled the complex relationship between Cryptosporidium and Giardia (oo)cysts and a set of parasitological, microbiological, physicochemical and meteorological parameters via a model-agnostic meta-learner algorithm that provides flexibility regarding the selection of the ML model executing the fitting task. Based on this generic approach, a set of four well-known ML candidates were, empirically, evaluated in terms of their predictive capabilities. Then, the best-performed algorithms, were further examined through XAI techniques for gaining meaningful insights related to the explainability and interpretability of the derived solutions. The findings reveal that the Random Forest achieves the highest prediction performance when the objective is the prediction of both contamination and contamination intensity with Cryptosporidium oocysts in a given water sample, with meteorological/physicochemical and microbiological markers being informative, respectively. For the prediction of contamination with Giardia, the eXtreme Gradient Boosting with physicochemical parameters was the most efficient algorithm, while, the Support Vector Regression that takes into consideration both microbiological and meteorological markers was more efficient for evaluating the contamination intensity with cysts. The results of the study designate that the adoption of ML and XAI approaches can be considered as a valuable tool for unveiling the complicated correlation of the presence and contamination intensity with these zoonotic parasites that could constitute, in turn, a basis for the development of monitoring platforms and early warning systems for the prevention of waterborne disease outbreaks.
Assuntos
Inteligência Artificial , Criptosporidiose , Cryptosporidium , Giardia , Giardíase , Aprendizado de Máquina , Criptosporidiose/prevenção & controle , Criptosporidiose/epidemiologia , Cryptosporidium/isolamento & purificação , Giardia/isolamento & purificação , Humanos , Giardíase/prevenção & controle , Giardíase/epidemiologia , Oocistos , Doenças Transmitidas pela Água/prevenção & controleRESUMO
BackgroundBy mid-September 2023, several event notifications related to cryptosporidiosis had been identified from different regions in Spain. Therefore, a request for urgent notification of cryptosporidiosis cases to the National Surveillance Network was launched.AimWe aimed at assessing the extent of the increase in cases, the epidemiological characteristics and the transmission modes and compared to previous years.MethodsWe analysed data on case notifications, outbreak reports and genotypes focusing on June-October 2023 and compared the results to 2016-2022.ResultsIn 2023, 4,061 cryptosporidiosis cases were notified in Spain, which is an increase compared to 2016-2022. The cumulative incidence was 8.3 cases per 100,000 inhabitants in 2023, sixfold higher than the median of 1.4 cases per 100,000 inhabitants 2016-2022. Almost 80% of the cases were notified between June and October. The largest outbreaks were related to contaminated drinking water or swimming pools. Cryptosporidium hominis was the most common species in the characterised samples (115/122), and the C. hominis IfA12G1R5 subtype, previously unusual in Spain, was detected from 76 (62.3%) of the 122 characterised samples.ConclusionsA substantial increase in cryptosporidiosis cases was observed in 2023. Strengthening surveillance of Cryptosporidium is essential for prevention of cases, to better understand trends and subtypes circulating and the impact of adverse meteorological events.
Assuntos
Criptosporidiose , Cryptosporidium , Surtos de Doenças , Criptosporidiose/epidemiologia , Humanos , Espanha/epidemiologia , Cryptosporidium/isolamento & purificação , Cryptosporidium/genética , Masculino , Incidência , Adulto , Feminino , Pré-Escolar , Surtos de Doenças/estatística & dados numéricos , Adolescente , Pessoa de Meia-Idade , Criança , Lactente , Idoso , Adulto Jovem , Genótipo , Vigilância da População , Água Potável/parasitologia , Piscinas , Notificação de Doenças/estatística & dados numéricos , Recém-Nascido , Fezes/parasitologiaRESUMO
Wild rodents serve as reservoirs for Cryptosporidium and are overpopulated globally. However, genetic data regarding Cryptosporidium in these animals from China are limited. Here, we have determined the prevalence and genetic characteristics of Cryptosporidium among 370 wild rodents captured from three distinct locations in the southern region of Zhejiang Province, China. Fresh feces were collected from the rectum of each rodent, and DNA was extracted from them. The rodent species was identified by PCR amplifying the vertebrate cytochrome b gene. Cryptosporidium was detected by PCR amplification and amplicon sequencing the small subunit of ribosomal RNA gene. Positive samples of C. viatorum and C. parvum were further subtyped by analyzing the 60-kDa glycoprotein gene. A positive Cryptosporidium result was found in 7% (26/370) of samples, involving five rodent species: Apodemus agrarius (36), Niviventer niviventer (75), Rattus losea (18), R. norvegicus (155), and R. tanezumi (86). Their respective Cryptosporidium positive rates were 8.3%, 5.3%, 11.1%, 7.1%, and 7.0%. Sequence analysis confirmed the presence of three Cryptosporidium species: C. parvum (4), C. viatorum (1), and C. muris (1), and two genotypes: Cryptosporidium rat genotype IV (16) and C. mortiferum-like (4). Additionally, two subtypes of C. parvum (IIdA15G1 and IIpA19) and one subtype of C. viatorum (XVdA3) were detected. These results demonstrate that various wild rodent species in Zhejiang were concurrently infected with rodent-adapted and zoonotic species/genotypes of Cryptosporidium, indicating that these rodents can play a role in maintaining and dispersing this parasite into the environment and other hosts, including humans.
Title: Transmission interspécifique de Cryptosporidium chez les rongeurs sauvages de la région sud de la province chinoise du Zhejiang et son impact possible sur la santé publique. Abstract: Les rongeurs sauvages servent de réservoirs à Cryptosporidium et ont des grandes populations à l'échelle mondiale. Cependant, les données génétiques concernant Cryptosporidium chez ces animaux en Chine sont limitées. Ici, nous avons déterminé la prévalence et les caractéristiques génétiques de Cryptosporidium parmi 370 rongeurs sauvages capturés dans trois endroits distincts de la région sud de la province du Zhejiang, en Chine. Des excréments frais ont été collectés dans le rectum de chaque rongeur et l'ADN en a été extrait. L'espèce de rongeur a été identifiée par amplification par PCR du gène du cytochrome b des vertébrés. Cryptosporidium a été détecté par amplification PCR et séquençage d'amplicons de la petite sous-unité du gène de l'ARN ribosomal. Les échantillons positifs de C. viatorum et C. parvum ont ensuite été sous-typés en analysant le gène de la glycoprotéine de 60 kDa. Un résultat positif pour Cryptosporidium a été trouvé dans 7 % (26/370) des échantillons, impliquant cinq espèces de rongeurs : Apodemus agrarius (36), Niviventer niviventer (75), Rattus losea (18), R. norvegicus (155) et R. tanezumi (86). Leurs taux respectifs de positivité pour Cryptosporidium étaient de 8,3 %, 5,3 %, 11,1 %, 7,1 % et 7,0 %. L'analyse des séquences a confirmé la présence de trois espèces de Cryptosporidium : C. parvum (4), C. viatorum (1) et C. muris (1), et de deux génotypes : Cryptosporidium génotype IV de rat (16) et C. mortiferum-like (4). De plus, deux sous-types de C. parvum (IIdA15G1 et IIpA19) et un sous-type de C. viatorum (XVdA3) ont été détectés. Ces résultats démontrent que diverses espèces de rongeurs sauvages du Zhejiang sont simultanément infectées par des espèces/génotypes de Cryptosporidium zoonotiques et adaptés aux rongeurs, ce qui indique que ces rongeurs peuvent jouer un rôle dans le maintien et la dispersion de ce parasite dans l'environnement et d'autres hôtes, y compris les humains.
Assuntos
Animais Selvagens , Criptosporidiose , Cryptosporidium , Fezes , Doenças dos Roedores , Roedores , Animais , Criptosporidiose/epidemiologia , Criptosporidiose/parasitologia , Criptosporidiose/transmissão , China/epidemiologia , Cryptosporidium/genética , Cryptosporidium/isolamento & purificação , Cryptosporidium/classificação , Fezes/parasitologia , Doenças dos Roedores/parasitologia , Doenças dos Roedores/epidemiologia , Doenças dos Roedores/transmissão , Animais Selvagens/parasitologia , Ratos/parasitologia , Roedores/parasitologia , Prevalência , Saúde Pública , Reservatórios de Doenças/parasitologia , Reservatórios de Doenças/veterinária , Filogenia , Humanos , DNA de Protozoário/isolamento & purificação , Murinae/parasitologia , Reação em Cadeia da Polimerase , Zoonoses/parasitologia , Zoonoses/transmissão , Zoonoses/epidemiologia , GenótipoRESUMO
Objective: Giardia and Cryptosporidium are enteric protozoa that can cause a variety of gastrointestinal diseases, especially in vulnerable people like children, the elderly, and those with impaired immune systems. In order to ascertain the microbiological quality of the recreational water from Araromi Beach in Ilaje Local Government Area, Ondo State, Nigeria. This risk assessment is of great significance to human health protection against waterborne diseases. The aim of this study was to determine the microbial quality of recreational water from Araromi Beach in Ilaje Local Government Area, Ondo State, Nigeria. Methods: Microscopic examination of Cryptosporidium and Giardia oocysts were done. Results: Results revealed maximum occurrence of Cryptosporidium parvum (20 oocysts/100 mL) of water sample in the month of April and maximum occurrence of Giardia lamblia (300 cysts/100 mL) of water sample in the month of June. Additionally, according to Kolmogorov-Smirnov tests for normalcy Ho =0.05, Giardia lamblia and Cryptosporidium parvum were not regularly distributed in the water samples collected from the beach throughout the study period. The average likelihood of contracting Giardia lamblia and Cryptosporidium parvum infections after consuming 100 mL of beach water was 0.96 and 0.35, respectively. The risks of infection associated with Cryptosporidium parvum was lower than those associated with Giardia lamblia in water from the beach, but were both above the acceptable risk limit of 10-4. Conclusion: The results of this study indicate that Giardia and Cryptosporidium may represent serious health hazards to people who engage in aquatic activities. Adopting a comprehensive strategy that includes regular inspections, enhanced detection techniques, and the prevention of aquatic environment pollution may provide clean and safe recreational water for all, thereby safeguarding the public's health.
Assuntos
Cryptosporidium parvum , Giardia lamblia , Cryptosporidium parvum/isolamento & purificação , Giardia lamblia/isolamento & purificação , Nigéria/epidemiologia , Humanos , Água do Mar/parasitologia , Medição de Risco , Microbiologia da Água , Giardíase/epidemiologia , Giardíase/parasitologia , Criptosporidiose/epidemiologia , Criptosporidiose/parasitologia , Recreação , OocistosRESUMO
The zoonotic parasite Cryptosporidium parvum is a global cause of gastrointestinal disease in humans and ruminants. Sequence analysis of the highly polymorphic gp60 gene enabled the classification of C. parvum isolates into multiple groups (e.g., IIa, IIc, Id) and a large number of subtypes. In Europe, subtype IIaA15G2R1 is largely predominant and has been associated with many water- and food-borne outbreaks. In this study, we generated new whole-genome sequence (WGS) data from 123 human- and ruminant-derived isolates collected in 13 European countries and included other available WGS data from Europe, Egypt, China, and the United States (n = 72) in the largest comparative genomics study to date. We applied rigorous filters to exclude mixed infections and analyzed a data set from 141 isolates from the zoonotic groups IIa (n = 119) and IId (n = 22). Based on 28,047 high-quality, biallelic genomic SNPs, we identified three distinct and strongly supported populations: Isolates from China (IId) and Egypt (IIa and IId) formed population 1; a minority of European isolates (IIa and IId) formed population 2; and the majority of European (IIa, including all IIaA15G2R1 isolates) and all isolates from the United States (IIa) clustered in population 3. Based on analyses of the population structure, population genetics, and recombination, we show that population 3 has recently emerged and expanded throughout Europe to then, possibly from the United Kingdom, reach the United States, where it also expanded. The reason(s) for the successful spread of population 3 remain elusive, although genes under selective pressure uniquely in this population were identified.
Assuntos
Criptosporidiose , Cryptosporidium parvum , Surtos de Doenças , Cryptosporidium parvum/genética , Estados Unidos/epidemiologia , Europa (Continente)/epidemiologia , Humanos , Criptosporidiose/parasitologia , Criptosporidiose/epidemiologia , Animais , Genômica/métodos , Polimorfismo de Nucleotídeo Único , Filogenia , Sequenciamento Completo do Genoma/métodos , Genoma de Protozoário , China/epidemiologia , Egito/epidemiologiaRESUMO
Cryptosporidium infection is a common occurrence in rodents worldwide. In this study, 435 wild brown rats were captured from an animal feedlot in Xinjiang, China, with a fecal sample obtained directly from the rectal contents of each rat. The DNA extracted from these fecal samples was analyzed for Cryptosporidium spp. using PCR targeting the SSU rRNA gene. The prevalence of Cryptosporidium infection in brown rats was found to be 5.5% (24 out of 435). Interestingly, the infection rates varied among different animal enclosures, with rates of 0% in the chicken coop (0/51), cowshed (0/3), and varying rates in other areas including the sheepfold (6.1%, 6/98), the pigsty (7.6%, 10/132), the dovecote (7.0%, 5/71), and outdoor environments (3.8%, 3/80). The study identified three species and one genotype of Cryptosporidium, namely C. occultus (n = 10), C. parvum (n = 4), C. ditrichi (n = 1), and Cryptosporidium rat genotype IV (n = 9). Additionally, two of the C. parvum isolates were successfully subtyped as IIdA19G1 (n = 2) at the gp60 gene. These results offer valuable insights into the prevalence and genetic diversity of Cryptosporidium in brown rats within the region.
Assuntos
Criptosporidiose , Cryptosporidium , Fezes , Animais , Cryptosporidium/genética , Cryptosporidium/classificação , Cryptosporidium/isolamento & purificação , Criptosporidiose/parasitologia , Criptosporidiose/epidemiologia , China/epidemiologia , Ratos/parasitologia , Fezes/parasitologia , Prevalência , Genótipo , DNA de Protozoário/genética , Filogenia , Doenças dos Roedores/parasitologia , Doenças dos Roedores/epidemiologia , Reação em Cadeia da PolimeraseRESUMO
The North African hedgehog (Atelerix algirus) is an introduced species from Northwest Africa and is currently distributed in the Canary Islands. This species of hedgehog has been studied as a reservoir of enteropathogens, including Cryptosporidium spp. However, there are no data at species level. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to identify the Cryptosporidium species present in a population of hedgehogs (n = 36) in the Canary Islands. Molecular screening was performed using conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) targeting the small subunit ribosomal RNA (18S rRNA) gene of Cryptosporidium spp. Seven of the 36 fecal samples (19.45%) were positive and confirmed by nested PCR targeting the 18S rRNA gene and Sanger sequencing. Cryptosporidium parvum and Cryptosporidium muris were identified in 11.1% (4/36) and 5.6% (2/36) of the samples, respectively, while one sample could only be identified at the genus level. The zoonotic subtypes IIdA15G1 (n = 1), IIdA16G1b (n = 1), and IIdA22G1 (n = 1) of C. parvum were identified by nested PCR followed by analysis of the 60 kDa glycoprotein (gp60) gene sequence. This study is the first genetic characterization of Cryptosporidium spp. in A. algirus, identifying zoonotic species and subtypes of the parasite.