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<OL> <LI> To examine factors that are associated to the transmission of Cyclospora and Cryptosporidium. <LI> To develop and evaluate isolation and diagnostic methodologies to detect parasites in environmental samples from agricultural settings.<LI> To perform a field survey of irrigational water, soil and produce from endemic areas to evaluate the robustness of the methods, gather information on the risk potential of these factors and the elucidation of other microbes as surrogate markers for cyclosporiasis and cryptosporidiosis.
Much of the research produced in the laboratories has limited relevance if this information is not adequately shared with the stakeholders. To expedite the educational process in parasitology food safety, we intend to disseminate the acquired knowledge with members of the agricultural and food safety community via workshops, printed materials and seminars.
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The objectives of this project will be accomplished by: <LI> Development and evaluation of identification and recovery procedures for Cyclospora Cryptosporridium and Giardia from irrigation water, soil, and manure. <LI> Determination of the viability and infectivity of C. parvum and Cyclospora in inoculated manure, irrigation water with and without pesticides and maintained at different environmental conditions. <LI> Field evaluation the most efficient methods for recovery and detection using irrigation and soil samples from endemic areas. <LI> To evaluate the use of other microbes (Giardia, E. coli and coliforms) as indicators of fecal contamination of the fields. <LI> Genotype the Cryptosporidium parasites found in the field samples. <LI> Assessment of risk factors. <P>
Information gathered in this investigation will be disseminated through comprehensive Food Safety workshops directed to graduate students and professionals working in Food Safety. These informational sessions will focus on the following parasitic pathogens: Cyclospora, Cryptosporidium, Giardia, Toxoplasmosis,Microsporidia, Taeniais/Cysticercosis, hydatic disease and trichinosis. Additional opportunities for agricultural workers, food processors and professional in food safety will be available by the implementation of a visiting scholars program, web pages, short seminars and pamphlets.