EPIDEMIOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT OF CRYPTOSPORIDIUM SPP. AND GIARDIA DUODENALIS IN UMUNNEOCHI AREA OF ABIA STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

The study assessed the epidemiology, prevalence, associated risk factors, and public health implications of Cryptosporidium spp. and Giardia duodenalis infections in Umunneochi Local Government Area of Abia State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional study was conducted between February and November 2025 involving domestic animals, livestock handlers, and selected households. A total of 420 faecal samples comprising cattle, goats, sheep, pigs, dogs, and humans were collected and analyzed using direct smear microscopy, modified Ziehl–Neelsen staining, and zinc sulphate flotation techniques. Structured questionnaires were administered to evaluate environmental and management-related risk factors. The result revealed that, overall prevalence of Cryptosporidium spp. was 18.1%, while that of Giardia duodenalis was 14.5%. The result further indicated that, young animals showed significantly (P < 0.05) higher infection rates compared to adults. Poor sanitation, contaminated water sources, overcrowding, and extensive management systems were significantly (P < 0.05) associated with infection. Spatial epidemiological mapping identified rural communities with poor access to potable water as hotspots of transmission. The study demonstrates that cryptosporidiosis and giardiasis are endemic in Umunneochi and represent important zoonotic diseases requiring integrated One Health interventions involving veterinary, environmental, and public health sectors.