Investigation of Cryptosporidium sp. Oocysts in Erzurum’s Potable Water On Different Months

Objective: Cryptosporidium sp. is a protozoan which is highly resistant to external environmental conditions and chlorination and can lead to severe diarrhea in immunosuppressed persons. Oocysts of this parasite, is excreted by human and animal feces, lead to contamination of potable (drinking) water supplies in environments with poor sanitation. Our aim is to investigate the presence of oocysts in some potable water samples taken from different points of Erzurum city center and around on different months.Methods: Totally 120 water samples were collected from 40 random different points of Erzurum city center and around on April, May and July. Of the 120 samples, 45 were from city water system and 75 from fountain and wells water. Water samples collected within 5 liter tanks were filtered by using membrane filter. From each sample preparation were done by using modified acid fast staining method and then examined under microscope.Results: Cryptosporidium sp. oocysts were detected on 18 (15.0%) of total 120 water samples. 6 (13.3%) of these positive samples were from city water system and the other 12 (16.0%) were from fountains and wells. According to the seasonal distribution of positive samples 9 (22.5%) have been taken on April, 7 (17.5%) on May and 2 (5.0%) on July.Conclusion: Results of this study have shown that source of water supplies in our region are notably contaminated with Cryptosporidium sp. oocysts, and the rate of contamination is higher on April and May when compared with July.