Study on Cryptosporidium in Calves, Children, and Drinking Water Sources in Akaki Kality, Addis Ababa
| dc.contributor.advisor | Professor Dinka Ayana | |
| dc.contributor.advisor | Professor Feleke Zewge | |
| dc.contributor.author | Abdurahman Meribo | |
| dc.date.accessioned | 2026-02-04T10:30:14Z | |
| dc.date.available | 2026-02-04T10:30:14Z | |
| dc.date.issued | 2025 | |
| dc.description.abstract | Cryptosporidiosis, caused by protozoan parasites of the genus Cryptosporidium, poses a significant public health and veterinary challenge globally, particularly in low-resource settings with inadequate water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) conditions. This cross-sectional study (November 2024–June 2025) estimated the prevalence, burden, and associated risk factors of Cryptosporidium infection in calves, children under five, and drinking water sources (Akaki, Gefersa, and Legedadi rivers) using a One Health approach. A total of 232 calf fecal samples, 124 stool samples from children, and 60 water samples were examined using the modified ZiehlNeelsen acid-fast staining technique. The overall prevalence was 13.4% in calves, 7.3% in children, and 60% in water samples. Significant differences in calf prevalence were observed among production systems (*p* = 0.005), body condition (*p* = 0.007), and presence of calving pens (*p* = 0.043). Calves in extensive systems had the highest infection rate (50%), and those in poor condition were most susceptible. In children, infection was significantly associated with parental illiteracy (*p* = 0.008) and animal contact (*p* = 0.049), while age and sex were nonsignificant. All Akaki River samples were contaminated (100%), followed by Gefersa (80%); Legedadi showed no contamination. Microscopy-based burden assessment revealed the highest oocyst loads in calves under three months and children below one year, with no high-burden cases in children. The study underscores the critical role of animal management, environmental sanitation, and public health behaviors in transmission. Integrated One Health strategies addressing human-animal-environment interactions are essential to reduce the zoonotic and waterborne burden in urban Ethiopia. | |
| dc.identifier.uri | https://etd.aau.edu.et/handle/123456789/7624 | |
| dc.language.iso | en_US | |
| dc.publisher | Addis Abeba University | |
| dc.subject | Akaki Kality | |
| dc.subject | calves | |
| dc.subject | children | |
| dc.subject | Cryptosporidium | |
| dc.subject | risk factors | |
| dc.subject | water sources | |
| dc.title | Study on Cryptosporidium in Calves, Children, and Drinking Water Sources in Akaki Kality, Addis Ababa | |
| dc.type | Dissertation |