First Report of Zoonotic Cryptosporidium parvum Subtype IIaA15G2R1 in Dogs in Türkiye

Abstract

Cryptosporidium (C.) is an opportunistic protozoan causing gastrointestinal illness in both humans and animals, leading to acute or chronic diarrhea and even death. The study aimed to investigate the prevalence and subtyping of Cryptosporidium spp. in shelter dogs in Van province, Türkiye. For microscopic identification of this parasite, a total of 300 fecal samples were collected and stained with Kinyoun's acid-fast method. For molecular analysis, the positive samples were subjected to DNA extraction and SSU rRNA gene of Cryptosporidium spp. was amplified using nested PCR. The microscopic examination revealed a 4.67% prevalence of Cryptosporidium spp. Sequence analysis indicated all samples were positive to C. parvum. In addition, GP60 gene was also amplified and C. parvum subtypes IIaA15G2R1 was confirmed by analyzing the obtained sequences. All the sequences of SSU rRNA and GP60 were deposited in GenBank. To our knowledge, Cryptosporidium parvum subtypes IIaA15G2R1 have been reported first time in dogs in Türkiye. It is recommended to implement control strategies by awareness campaign, preventing stray dogs from freely entering public areas, and proper disposal of dog feces.