Human pathogenic protozoa in bivalves collected from local markets in Alexandria

Bivalves are filter feeders concentrating pathogens from waters and are often eaten raw. Two species, Caelatura Iaronia pruneri and Donax trunculus limiacus commonly known as Gandofli and Om el Kholool respectively were examined. Shellfish were collected from markets in Alexandria to detect any human pathogenic protozoa in them. The infectivity of the detected protozoa was studied by experimental animal inoculation. The results revealed the presence of infectious Cryptosporidia oocysts and Microsporidia spores in both bivalves. Cyclospora sp. was detected only in Gandofli but was non-infectious to mice. There is a potential risk of acquiring protozoa infections if shellfish are eaten raw or insufficiently cooked.