Occurrence and distribution of waterborne parasites in drinking and spring water sources in Kırıkkale province, Türkiye

Waterborne parasites represent an important public health problem due to their ability to survive in aquatic environments and contaminate drinking water sources. The aim of this study was to determine the occurrence and distribution of waterborne pa rasites in drinking and spring water sources in Kırıkkale Province, Türkiye. A total of 120 water samples were collected month ly from 10 different sampling stations between April 2024 and March 2025. Five-liter water samples were concentrated using sedimentation followed by centrifugation. Microscopic examinations were performed using native Lugol, Kinyoun acid-fast staining, and trichrome staining techniques to detect parasitic forms. Parasitic contamination was detected in 19 (15.8%) water samples. The most frequently detected parasites were Giardia spp. and Cryptosporidium spp., both of which are zoonotic pro tozoa with public health importance. In addition, Isospora sp. and Eimeria spp. oocysts, as well as helminth eggs (Aspiculuris sp., Trichuris sp.) and crustaceans, were observed in several samples, indicating possible fecal contamination of water sources. Parasites were detected most frequently during autumn, whereas the lowest detection rates were observed in winter. Among the diagnostic methods used, Kinyoun acid-fast staining detected the highest number of positive samples. The detection of zoonotic protozoa in drinking and spring water sources suggests potential fecal contamination and possible health risks for local popula tions. Regular monitoring and protection of water resources are essential to reduce the risk of waterborne parasitic infections.