Prevalence of Cryptosporidium infection in sheep in Iran.

OBJECTIVE Cryptosporidium is an important zoonotic parasite in humans and animals worldwide. This study was conducted to investigate the prevalence of Cryptosporidium infection in Iran. METHODS Fecal samples (n=1.749) were collected randomly in asymptomatic sheep from different rural regions of Iran in 2011 to 2012. All samples were examined by using the cold modified Ziehl-Neelsen staining technique. RESULTS Oocysts of Cryptosporidium was found in 11.3% (198/1749) of samples (9.8 < CI 95% < 12.8). There was a statistical differences among Cryptosporidium infection, age groups (p < 0.0001), and gender (p=0.02). CONCLUSION This study is the first report of Cryptosporidium infection in sheep in different regions of Iran. Therefore, further comprehensive molecular studies in sheep to identify the source of contaminations (animals or humans) and designing control strategies is highly recommended.