Epidemiology and Infection

Table of Contents - 1993 - Volume 110, Issue 03  

Research Article

Occurrence of Giardia sp. cysts and Cryptosporidium sp. oocysts in faeces from public parks in the west of Scotland

A. M. Grimasona1a2, H. V. Smith*a1, J. F. W. Parkera1, M. H. Jacksona2, P. G. Smitha2 and R. W. A. Girdwooda1

a1 Scottish Parasite Diagnostic Laboratory, Stobhill General Hospital, Glasgow G21 3UW

a2 Division of Environmental Health, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow G4 ONG

Abstract

One hundred faecal specimens, randomly collected from various locations within seven public parks in the west of Scotland, were examined for the presence of Giardia sp. cysts and Cryptosporidium sp. oocysts. Eleven percent of samples contained Giardia sp. cysts and 1 % contained Cryptosporidium sp. oocysts. Occurrence data from individual parks varied from 0 to 40% for Giardia and 0 to 2.4% for Cryptosporidium. The occurrence of parasitic organisms in public parks, especially in the vicinity of children’s playing areas is a matter of concern for public health officials and regulators of leisure and recreation amenities.

(Accepted January 14 1993)

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