Blastocystis in tap water of a community in northern Thailand. (December 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Jinatham, Vasana; Nonebudsri, Chadsiri; Wandee, Thanawat; Popluechai, Siam; Tsaousis, Anastasios D.; Gentekaki, Eleni
• Is Part Of: Parasitology international. Volume 91(2022)
• Publication Date: 2022-12
• Subjects: Blastocystis -- Small subunit ribosomal RNA -- Subtype -- Tap water -- Thailand; Parasitology -- Periodicals; Parasites -- Periodicals; Parasitic Diseases -- Periodicals; Parasitology -- Periodicals; Parasitologie -- Périodiques; 571.99905
• DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2022.102624
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1383-5769

Abstract

Abstract: Blastocystis is the most common protist in the gut of humans and other animals having global distribution. Occasionally, this organism has also been reported in the environment. Transmission to humans occurs via the fecal-oral route, while water also comprises a transmission route. Blastocystis has been commonly found in rivers, lakes, and wells. Nonetheless, there is limited data about the prevalence and genetic diversity of Blastocystis in tap water. The main aim of this study was to examine the presence of Blastocystis subtypes in tap water ( n =20) in a community in northern Thailand. Molecular characterization using the small subunit ribosomal RNA was used to screen for Blastocystis and identify the diversity of subtypes in samples. The overall prevalence was 30% with only subtype three (ST3) encountered in the tap water. These results indicate that tap water has a potential role in the transmission of this subtype in the studied community. Further investigations should focus on expanding sampling to include additional housing complexes and screening for Blastocystis in humans who are exposed to this water. Highlights: Blastocystis occurred in 30% of tap water samples. Blastocystis subtype 3 is the only subtype identified. Tap water has a potential role in the transmission of Blastocystis in this community.