Detection of cryptosporidium spp. in environmental samples from La Mesa watershed reservation

Abstract

Cryptosporidium is a protozoan parasite responsible for causing waterborne infections worldwide. It is transmitted through direct contact or consumption of contaminated water with fecal waste, and/or contaminated soil. This study aims to investigate the occurrence of Cryptosporidium in the water, fecal and soil samples collected in the La Mesa Watershed Reservation. The water and soil samples were processed using a membrane filtration technique, while fecal samples were processed using FECT. Cryptosporidium oocysts were detected using the modified Kinyoun’s acid fast staining technique. None of the water samples were contaminated with Cryptosporidium. The parasite was detected in 14.3% of collected fecal samples and 1.90% of collected soil samples. Continuous monitoring is necessary in assuring the general public on the occurrence of Cryptosporidium in watersheds and public parks in the Philippines.