Project Page Views: [ 608 ]
Project Metadata Element | Details |
Project Title | Cryptosporidiosis: Human, animal and environmental interface |
Research Area | Water |
Project Acronym | |
Principal Investigator or Lead Irish Partner | Theo De Waal |
Lead Institution or Organisation | University College Dublin (UCD) |
Lead Country | Ireland |
Latitude, Longitude (of Lead Institution) | 53.30859, -6.22577 |
Lead Funding Entity | Environmental Protection Agency |
Approximate Project Start Date | 01/10/2008 |
Approximate Project Finishing Date | 01/10/2011 |
Project Website (if any) | |
Links to other Web-based resources | |
Project Keywords | Drinking water; Cryptosporidiosis; Health; Farming |
Project Abstract | Cryptosporidium is one of the most important zoonotic parasites in the developed world including Ireland. Although cases are reported throughout the year, over 60% of human cryptosporidiosis cases occur during the spring peak between March and June. This project aims to determine the cause(s) of the spring peak. Livestock, wildlife and the environment in 2 reservoir catchment areas will be screened for the presence of Cryptosporidium oocysts. Molecular analysis will be carried out to determine the importance of the Cryptosporidium genotypes of animal origin to human health. As an immediate outcome of this project we will be able to make recommendations for land use in catchment areas of drinking water reservoirs, particularly in relation to the type of farming practiced, stocking densities, and husbandry practices. Moreover, a molecular database of the Cryptosporidium spp and subtypes that occur in humans, livestock, wildlife and the environment will be collated. This catalogue will facilitate the tracking of future outbreaks. Research findings will be disseminated orally at national and international research meetings and via a project website. It is anticipated that 4 to 5 peer-reviewed publications in international journals will arise from this project. |