Assessment of Risk Factors for Cryptosporidium Infection in Hospitalized Patients from Romania.

Background/Objectives: This study aimed to identify and analyze the risk factors associated with Cryptosporidium infection in hospitalized patients in western Romania. Methods: A total of 312 patients, aged between 2 months and 90 years and residing in both urban and rural communities, were included. Stool samples were collected and analyzed using the CerTest Crypto qualitative chromatographic test and the modified Ziehl-Neelsen staining method (Henricksen & Pohlenz). Risk factors were assessed through a questionnaire completed by patients or by the parents of pediatric patients. Results: The overall prevalence of Cryptosporidium infection was 5.77%. Among the evaluated risk factors, only the area of residence showed a statistically significant association (p < 0.05), with a higher prevalence in urban areas (9.2%) compared to rural areas (3.6%). Other factors-including age, gender, contact with animals, pet ownership, handwashing after animal contact, type of housing, fruit washing habits, use of potable water, use of public transportation, international travel, and visits to playgrounds or swimming pools-were not significantly associated with infection. Conclusions: These findings suggest that urban residency may be a significant factor in Cryptosporidium transmission and may inform future research and the development of targeted public health strategies.