| Popis: |
Background: Cryptosporidium is a protozoan parasite associated with gastrointestinal illness in humans and a wide range of vertebrate animals. Cattle, particularly calves, are widely recognized as major reservoir hosts of zoonotic Cryptosporidium spp. Despite this, and cattle being one of the most significant economic mainstays in St. Elizabeth, Jamaica, there is no publish record on the presence of Cryptosporidium in Jamaican cattle nor their potential role as zoonotic reservoirs. Methods: In the present study, 119 fecal specimens were collected from dairy and beef cattle from 10 farms in St. Elizabeth parish. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR), amplifying the 18S rRNA gene, confirmed Cryptosporidium presence in 10 (8 %) of samples. Results: Sequence analysis of PCR products identified three C. parvum isolates (previously reported in calves) and one C. hominis isolate among calves experiencing diarrhea at the time of sample collection. Further nested PCR and sequence analysis of the 60 kDa glycoprotein (gp60) gene, identified the C. hominis IbA9G2 subtype, previously reported in a calf. Conclusions: This reports the first molecular characterization of Cryptosporidium spp. from cattle in Jamaica, and their potential role as zoonotic transmitters of the protozoan parasite. Further molecular investigation is warranted to better understand direct and indirect transmission dynamics of cryptosporidiosis between livestock and humans on the island. |
