Abstract

Evolution of Monitoring for Giardia and Cryptosporidium in Water: 30 Years Research

Panagiotis Karanis, Professor and Director, Qinghai University

This review describes the evolution of detection methodologies for Cryptosporidium and Giardia in water since the 1970’s. Methods in current use for Giardia and Cryptosporidium in water are highlighted though attention is given to all available published methods. Historical examples reported by the researchers, who studied waterborne pathogens in different environments clearly show that there is a ‘space’ for changes based on the past experiences. Large sample volumes are traditionally used for analysis in the past are not necessarily required. The goal will be to combine small water volumes with the ‘right’ detection assay. The review is intended to stimulate research leading to development of future improvements and further developments in detection methodologies for Giardia, Cryptosporidium but also for other neglected potentially waterborne protozoan parasites with public health significance. The objective of generating more consistent and reliable data should lead to better understanding of the occurrence, transport, and fate of these organisms in water, their epidemiological and clinical relevance for humans and animals as water- and food borne pathogens. Clearly, strategies for affecting public health must be adapted to individual regions and their controlling conditions including local environment, available resources, economic and sanitation status. The new concepts, should combine different conventional and new molecular assays suitable for the analysis of waterborne pathogens. Improvements in monitoring and development of alternatives for effective diagnostic methodologies offer more practical monitoring possibilities for both the developed and developing world.