Work

Anthropogenic Blastocystis from Drinking Well and Coastal Water in Guinea-Bissau (West Africa)

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This study provides the first comprehensive investigation of Blastocystis sp. contamination in the drinking well and coastal water sources in Guinea-Bissau, a region grappling with severe water quality challenges. Of the forty-five water samples analyzed (34 well and 9 coastal water sources), Blastocystis sp. was detected in five (11%, 95% CI: 3.71–24.05) of the wells, which serve as a critical and primary drinking source for local communities. The detection of human-associated Blastocystis sp. subtype (ST)2 and ST3 raises concerns about the potential of fecal contamination as a transmission route for Blastocystis sp., underscoring the public health risks associated with an inadequate WASH (water, sanitation, and hygiene) infrastructure. These findings highlight the urgent need for improved water management and further research on waterborne parasitic infections in resource-limited settings.

Source: Microorganisms

DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms13030620

Authors: Sara Gomes-Gonçalves, Ana Machado, Adriano Bordalo, João R. Mesquita

Institutions: Universidade do Porto, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Albel Salazar, Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigação Marinha e Ambiental, Centro de Estudos de Ciencia Animal

Language: English

Topic: Parasitic Infections and Diagnostics

Subfield: Parasitology

Field: Immunology and Microbiology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDGs: Clean water and sanitation, Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,258