Immunomagnetic separation of Cryptosporidium parvum from source water samples of various turbidities

Research was conducted to examine the effects of sample turbidity on the recovery of Cryptosporidium parvum oocysts using two immunomagnetic separation (IMS) kits. The objectives of the study was to identify an IMS kit that generated high purified oocyst suspensions, to determine turbidity levels and to use the IMS kit for the evaluation of the effects of age on the recovery of C. parvum oocysts. Results indicate that IMS is a promising alternative to flotation procedures for the recovery of oocysts from turbid water matrices.