Incidence Of <i>Cryptosporidium</i> Infection In Port-Harcourt Rivers State Nigeria Based On Regular Contact With Domestic Animals

Abstract

The study was undertaken to determine the prevalence and significance of Cryptosporidium infection in humans based on their regular contact with domestic animals. A total of six hundred fecal samples from respondents were examined for Cryptosporidium oocyst using the cold Ziehl-Neelson staining method. Questionnaires were also administered to the respondents to derive desired information. Of the 600 fecal samples examined, there was 13.5% incidence of Cryptosporidium infection. More children (25.5%) were infected than adults (3.04%). Diarrhoeic samples accounted for 74% of positive cases, while non-diarrhoeic samples accounted for 26%. It was concluded that there is an association between Cryptosporidium infection incidence and regular contact with domestic animals in children as opposed to adults. The dynamics of the disease will help evolve sustainable control and preventive strategies that are cost effective and affordable.

Keywords: Cryptosporidium, Domestic animals, Diarrhoea

Nigerian Veterinary Journal Vol. 28 (3) 2007 pp. 1-5