Investigation of Cryptosporidium in Calves and Potable Water in Lafia, Nasarawa State

Cryptosporidium parvum is a zoonotic protozoan pathogen causing diarrheal illness in calves and humans, and its transmission through contaminated water sources is well established. This study investigated the occurrence of Cryptosporidium oocysts in calves and potable water sources in Lafia, Nasarawa State, North Central Nigeria. Fecal samples from 80 dairy and beef calves below three months of age were examined using a modified Ziehl-Neelsen acid-fast staining technique. Water samples were collected from 20 potable water points including pipe-borne water, boreholes, and hand-dug wells, and concentrated using membrane filtration before microscopic examination. A questionnaire assessed calf management practices of 30 farm owners. Cryptosporidium oocysts were identified in 36.3% of calf fecal samples, predominantly in neonates. Oocysts were detected in 35% of water samples overall, with the highest prevalence in open wells located near cattle pastures. Farms with higher stocking density and communal water access showed greater calf infection rates. The study concludes that Cryptosporidium in calves and potable water in Lafia represents a combined veterinary and public health risk. Recommendations include improved calf management, separation of livestock from water sources, enhanced drinking water treatment, and routine monitoring of water quality in cattle-dense communities. Keywords: Cryptosporidium, calves, potable water, zoonosis, Nasarawa State