Detection of "Cryptosporidium" sp. oocysts in groundwater for human consumption in Itaquaquecetuba city, São Paulo-Brazil

"Cryptosporidium" is an emergent pathogen that causes profuse diarrhea in humans. Outbreaks of human crypstosporidiosis have implicated water as a possible source of contamination. In this study the presence of "Cryptosporidium" sp. oocysts was investigated as well as the fecal contamination in groundwater for consumption in Itaquaquecetuba - São Paulo. Therefore, it was possible to notice that the septic tanks were located close to the wells, exposing them to the risk of contamination. As a consequence of these results and observations efficient disinfecting practices and groundwater monitoring are recommended.