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ARS Home » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #211544
Title: CRYPTOSPORIDIUM IN CATTLE FROM OBSERVING TO UNDERSTANDING

Author
item Fayer, Ronald
item Santin-Duran, Monica
item Trout, James

Submitted to: International Giardia and Cryptosporidium Conference
Publication Type: Book / Chapter
Publication Acceptance Date: 6/22/2007
Publication Date: 6/7/2008
Citation: Fayer, R., Santin, M., Trout, J.M. 2008. Cryptosporidium in cattle from observing to understanding. International Giardia and Cryptosporidium Conference. Mexico: CABI Press. 512 p.

Interpretive Summary: This chapter reviews the progress made in research on crytosporidiosis related to cattle. It begins with the association between humans and cattle in ancient times and brings to the present the methods used to determine the species of Cryptosporidium infecting cattle, those causing economic loss, and the single species, Cryptosporidium parvum, that has had an impact on public health. Microscopic and molecular methods for detection and tracing of outbreaks are discussed.

Technical Abstract: Cryptosporidium parvum is a zoonotic pathogen transmissible from a variety of animals to humans and is a considerable public health concern. Dairy cattle have been identified in numerous reports as a major source of environmental contamination with this pathogen. However, virtually all reports have been based on microscopic examination of the organism in feces from cattle. The present review includes information based on molecular typing with the ssrRNA gene and subtyping with the GP60 gene that enables epidemiologists and others to trace the sources of Cryptosporidium –related outbreaks.