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Prevalence of Cryptosporidium parvum in mithuns (Bos frontalis) from India

S Rajkhowa1, C Rajkhowa, G C Hazarika

  • 1National Research Centre on Mithun, Indian Council of Agricultural Research, Jharnapani, Nagaland 797106, India. s_rajkhowa@lycos.com

Veterinary Parasitology
|August 1, 2006
PubMed

Insights

A study found Cryptosporidium parvum in 56% of mithuns in Nagaland, India. Young mithuns and those with diarrhea showed higher infection rates, highlighting potential zoonotic risks.

Area of Science:

  • Veterinary Parasitology
  • Zoonotic Diseases
  • Bovine Health

Background:

  • Cryptosporidium parvum is a significant enteric protozoan parasite.
  • Mithuns (Bos frontalis) are important domestic bovines in Northeast India.
  • Limited data exists on cryptosporidiosis prevalence in mithuns.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence of Cryptosporidium parvum in mithuns in Nagaland.
  • To identify potential risk factors associated with infection.
  • To discuss the epidemiological and zoonotic implications.

Main Methods:

  • Faecal samples were collected from mithuns in research centers and free-ranging conditions.
  • Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used for Cryptosporidium parvum detection.
  • Prevalence rates were analyzed based on age, health status, sex, and management system.

Main Results:

  • Overall prevalence of Cryptosporidium parvum was 56% in mithuns.
  • Highest prevalence (81%) was observed in mithuns aged 1-6 months.
  • Prevalence was significantly higher in diarrhoeic (94%) and semi-intensively managed (64%) mithuns compared to non-diarrhoeic (51%) and free-ranging (40%) animals, respectively.

Conclusions:

  • Cryptosporidium parvum is prevalent in mithun populations in Nagaland.
  • Young age, diarrhea, and semi-intensive management are associated with increased risk.
  • The findings underscore the need for surveillance and control measures due to potential zoonotic transmission.

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