Giardia and Cryptosporidium spp. in lakes and groundwaters of Campania Region, Italy [Sulla diffusione di Giardia spp. e Cryptosporidium spp. in acque lacustri e telluriche della Campania]

This paper presents the results of a survey on the occurence of Giardia cysts and Cryptosporidium oocysts in lakes and groundwaters of Volturno watershed in Campania Region, Italy. A total of 23 samples from 5 lakes and 13 wells were analyzed in the period June-December 1997 using the UK standard methodology (Standing Committee of Analysts, Department of Environment, Drinking Water Inspectorate). The results showed that both protozoa are widely dispersed in the lakes, particularly in the fall, and that the potential for Giardia and Cryptosporidium contamination of groundwaters is real. The Authors conclude outlining the need to develop appropriate control strategies and preventive programs in communities using groundwater sources as drinking water.