Z. OMORUYI

Intestinal parasitic infections are a major public health concern in tropical regions, where
accurate diagnosis depends on proper preservation of stool specimens. Fresh samples degrade
quickly, making effective preservatives essential for maintaining parasite morphology.This
study aimed to evaluate and compare the efficacy of three preservatives 10% formalin, sodium acetate–acetic acid–formalin (SAF), and low-viscosity polyvinyl alcohol (LV-PVA)
in preserving intestinal parasites. A total of 20 stool samples were collected and examined
fresh to confirm the presence of parasites. Identified organisms included Trichostrongylus
eggs, Coccidia, Paramphistomum cervi, Trichuris trichiura, and Strongyloides larvae. Each
sample was then divided into three aliquots and preserved separately in the three fixatives. Preserved specimens were re-examined microscopically to assess morphological clarity and
diagnostic suitability over time.Results showed that 10% formalin gave the most consistent
preservation of helminth eggs and larvae. SAF also maintained good morphological integrity
across parasite types and was nearly as effective as formalin, with the added advantage of
being mercury-free and safer to handle. LV-PVA was less reliable for helminths but provided
better detail for protozoan structures, though further research is needed to optimize LV-PVA
for consistent use.

Parasitic contamination of drinking water remains a major public health challenge in
developing regions, where wells serve as primary water sources. These parasites can cause debilitating infections, reduce quality of life, and contribute to high morbidity rates. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and distribution of Micro organisms in well water sources across Benin City, Edo state. A total of 195 wells were sampled and examined using standard parasitological techniques and were analyzed microscopically for the presence of parasites. The data were subjected to descriptive and inferential statistics with SPSS version 25 and chisquare tests were applied to assess associations between parasite occurrence and location, with statistical significance set al p < 0.05.. Results revealed widespread contamination, with 88.2% of wells harboring at least one parasite. Ascaris was the most prevalent (26.7%), followed by Strongyloides (16.4%) and Entamoeba (12.8%). Giardia lamblia and Hookworm each accounted for 9.2%, while Schistosoma haematobium and Fasciola were least prevalent at 7.2% each. Statistical analysis showed no significant differences in parasite distribution across LGAs (p >0.05) except for Schistosoma haematobium, which was significantly associated with a location (p = 0.019). In conclusion, the findings highlight a high burden of parasitic contamination in well waters of Benin City, emphasizing the urgent need for improved water quality management and public health interventions.

Parasitic contamination in aquaculture systems poses significant threats to both fish health and public safety, particularly in developing countries where food security depends heavily on freshwater fish production. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of parasitic contamination in fish ponds across Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria, and evaluate the associated public health implications. A total of 50 water samples were collected from fish ponds across three local government areas: Ikpoba Okha (n=17), Ovia North East (n=16), and Oredo (n=17). Water samples were analyzed using direct microscopy, flotation, and sedimentation techniques to identify parasitic stages including eggs, larvae, and cysts. Key findings revealed a high overall prevalence of parasitic contamination at 54.0% across all examined ponds. Ascaris lumbricoides ova were the most frequently detected parasites
(44.0%), followed by Strongyloides stercoralis larvae (30.0%), Cryptosporidium parvum cysts (18.0%), and Schistosoma haematobium ova (8.0%). The highest contamination rates were observed in Ikpoba Okha (64.7%), followed by Oredo (52.9%) and Ovia North East (43.8%), though statistical analysis revealed no significant association between local government areas and contamination prevalence (p = 0.480). The majority of ponds (26%) harbored single parasites, while 4% contained four different parasitic species. The identification of zoonotic parasites with confirmed human health implications underscores the urgent need for improved aquaculture management practices, enhanced biosecurity measures, and comprehensive surveillance programs. These findings emphasize the necessity for integrated public health initiatives aimed at reducing parasitic transmission risks through
improved pond management, proper fish processing techniques, and consumer education programs to safeguard community health in Benin City

Cryptosporidium is a zoonotic protozoan parasite of significant public health concern. Cattle serve as major reservoirs, and abattoir contamination represents a potential route of human infection. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of ryptosporidium infection in cattle at Ikpoba Hill abattoir Benin city. A cross-sectional survey was conducted, and 180 fecal samples were collected post-slaughter. Samples were processed using the formol-ether concentration method and examined for Cryptosporidium oocysts with the modified Ziehl- Neelsen staining technique. The overall prevalence was 6.7% 12/180), with younger cattle showing higher infection rates than adults. The detection of Cryptosporidium in slaughtered cattle highlights a potential zoonotic risk, underscoring the need for improved sanitary practices within the abattoir and targeted health education for workers to reduce public health hazards.