Detection and molecular characterization of Cryptosporidium spp. isolated from diarrheic children in Switzerland
Claudia Glaeser1, Felix Grimm, Alexander Mathis
1Institute of Parasitology, Division of Infectious Diseases University Hospital, University of Zürich, Winterthurerstrasse 266a, CH-8057 Zürich, Switzerland.
Insights
Cryptosporidium spp. infections in diarrheic children in Switzerland were 5.5%, increasing with age. Most infections were the human Cryptosporidium hominis type, suggesting primarily human-to-human transmission routes for this parasite.
Area of Science:
- Medical Parasitology
- Infectious Diseases
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Cryptosporidium spp. are significant causes of diarrheal illness globally.
- Understanding transmission routes is crucial for effective control strategies.
- Data on Cryptosporidium epidemiology in immunocompetent children in Switzerland is limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of Cryptosporidium spp. in diarrheic immunocompetent children in Switzerland.
- To identify the species and genotypes of Cryptosporidium.
- To investigate the transmission patterns of Cryptosporidium in this population.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study of diarrheic children in Switzerland.
- Stool sample analysis for Cryptosporidium spp. detection.
- Genotyping of Cryptosporidium isolates to determine species and transmission sources.
Main Results:
- Overall prevalence of Cryptosporidium spp. was 5.5% (15/273).
- Infection rates showed a significant increase with age.
- Cryptosporidium hominis (anthroponotic) was identified in 11 children, often with travel history.
- Cryptosporidium parvum (zoonotic, bovine genotype) was found in 3 children, mostly without travel history.
Conclusions:
- The primary mode of Cryptosporidium transmission in this pediatric population in Switzerland is anthroponotic.
- Age is a significant factor influencing infection risk.
- Travel history is associated with anthroponotic Cryptosporidium hominis infections.
Abstract:
The prevalence of Cryptosporidium spp. in diarrheic immunocompetent children living in Switzerland was 5.5% (15 of 273). Infection rates increased significantly with age. Anthroponotic Cryptosporidium hominis was identified in 11 children, 9 with a travel history. The zoonotic Cryptosporidium parvum bovine genotype was identified in 3 children (2 without travel history). Hence transmission of Cryptosporidium spp. is primarily of anthroponotic nature in the study area.
