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Detection of Cryptosporidium spp. in free ranging animals of Tehran, Iran
Mehran Mirzaghavami1, Javid Sadraei1, Mehdi Forouzandeh2
1Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.
Abstract:
Cryptosporidium is a world widely distributed parasite which comparatively has a high prevalence in developing countries. The zoonotic potential of some Cryptosporidium species has made the cryptosporidiosis a significant concern to physicians and veterinarians. The occurrence and zoonotic potential of Cryptosporidium species in probable reservoir hosts for man infections was determined by examining faeces of symptomatic and asymptomatic animals. The aim of this study is to screen the presence of Cryptosporidium in fecal sample of free ranging animals in Tehran using Ziehl-Neelsen staining method. The findings indicate that Cryptosporidium are present in 9/50 (18 %) stray cat (Felis catus), 12/50 (24 %) hooded crows (Corvus cornix), 23/180 (12.7 %) rat (Rattus norvegicus and R. rattus) and 1/40 (2.5 %) pigeons (Columba livia). This investigation confirms the potential role of rats, cats, crows and pigeons for zoonotic transmission of human cryptosporidiosis and they must be considered as reservoir hosts which can endanger public health.
Insights
Cryptosporidium parasites were found in stray cats, hooded crows, rats, and pigeons in Tehran. These animals can potentially transmit cryptosporidiosis to humans, posing a public health risk.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Parasitology
- Zoonotic Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Cryptosporidium is a globally prevalent parasite, particularly in developing nations.
- The zoonotic potential of Cryptosporidium species is a significant concern for both physicians and veterinarians.
- Understanding reservoir hosts is crucial for controlling human cryptosporidiosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the occurrence and zoonotic potential of Cryptosporidium in free-ranging animals in Tehran.
- To screen fecal samples from various animal species for Cryptosporidium presence.
- To identify potential reservoir hosts for human Cryptosporidium infections.
Main Methods:
- Fecal samples were collected from free-ranging animals in Tehran.
- The Ziehl-Neelsen staining method was employed for Cryptosporidium detection.
- Prevalence was calculated for each animal species examined.
Main Results:
- Cryptosporidium was detected in 18% of stray cats (Felis catus).
- Infection rates were 24% in hooded crows (Corvus cornix), 12.7% in rats (Rattus norvegicus and R. rattus), and 2.5% in pigeons (Columba livia).
- The study identified rats, cats, crows, and pigeons as hosts harboring Cryptosporidium.
Conclusions:
- Free-ranging rats, cats, crows, and pigeons in Tehran harbor Cryptosporidium.
- These animals serve as potential reservoirs for zoonotic transmission of cryptosporidiosis to humans.
- Public health strategies should consider these animals as potential sources of infection and implement control measures.
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