Cryptosporidium spp. in adult goats from family farms in northwestern Argentina: Prevalence and epidemiological insights

Abstract

Cryptosporidium infection in goats has been reported in several countries. However, information is scarce for South America, including Argentina. This study aimed to identify Cryptosporidium spp. infections in adult goats of 11 rural communities from Luracatao Valley (Argentina), and to evaluate associated risk factors through socio-productive surveys. Fecal samples were collected of 409 adult goats from 51 family farms. Oocysts compatible with Cryptosporidium spp. were detected in 0.48 % (2/409) of samples by microscopy. A total of 4.89 % (20/409) of goats and 36.36 % (4/11) of communities tested positive by nested PCR targeting 18S rRNA gene fragments. The sequences were consistent with C. ubiquitum (n = 15), C. xiaoi (n = 3), and C. parvum (n = 2). 51 surveys were conducted with goat-raising families, providing contextual data on herd management, health practices, and environmental conditions. Multivariate analysis showed a significant protective association between antiparasitic treatment and Cryptosporidium infection (OR = 0.073; p < 0.05). These findings provide valuable information to better understand cryptosporidiosis in family goat systems, a system that is often overlooked in public policy, despite goats being a significant source of livelihood for many families.