The Prevalence of Cryptosporidium sp. in Patients of Some Basrah Hospitals Using Microscopy and Evaluation of Associated Epidemiological Factors.

Abstract

In the current study, stool samples collected from patients at various hospitals in Basrah governorate such as Al-Fayhaa Teaching Hospital, Al-Zubair General Hospital, and Al-Sayyab Hospital. These samples were examined for infection with Cryptosporidium from December 1, 2024, to August 1, 2025.

The study was focused on detection of Cryptosporidium sp. In different areas of Basrah (Rural and Urban), gender, age groups and intensity of infection. A total of 193 stool samples were collected from people in Basrah governorate, of different ages, genders, and locations. The overall infection rate was 64.8%. Significant differences were mostly observed in the months of study. The infection rate was highest in March (76.9%) and lowest in December (37.1%), with a significant difference at P ≤ 0.009. The highest infection rate was seen  in rural areas, while the lowest was in urban areas, with a significant difference at P ≤ 0.009.

The collected samples after staining were examined microscopically using modified Ziehl-Neelsen (MZN) stain for detection Cryptosporidium oocysts. The numbers and dimensions of the oocysts were recorded under the microscope and photographed using a camera mounted on a Leica microscope. The results were statistically analyzed using the Chi-square test at a probability level of P ≤ 0.05.