Molecular characterization of Giardia intestinalis assemblage E from goat kids in Bangladesh

ObjectiveTo molecularly characterize Giardia in goat kids to elucidate the possible zoonotic hazards in Bangladesh and find out the role of Giardia protozoan parasite as a source of human infection.MethodsFecal samples of 100 goat kids were genotyped by nested PCR amplification of β-giardin gene fragment followed by sequencing and analysis.ResultsThe total prevalence of Giardia in goat kids was 3% (3/100) and the infection is more widespread in younger (P = 0.36), Black Bengal breed (P = 0.81) and female goat kids (P = 0.58). Further analysis of β-giardin gene locus has shown that the gene clustered in assemblage E rather than assemblages A and B.ConclusionsThe present study suggests the low zoonotic transmission frequency from the goat kids and and giardiasis has least epidemiological significance to humans. Further study on this field is prerequisite in terms of broad geographical areas, age groups, sex and evaluation of zoonotic significance along with genetic diversity in other host species as well.