The relevance of the definition of Blastocystis spp. in environmental objects as potential risk factors for the occurrence of protozoal human infection

The most abundant protozoan Blastocystis spp. from human and animal intestines is one of the poor-studied pathogens causing the occurrence of a protozoal infection of the human gastrointestinal tract. In Russia, no Blastocyst invasion is recorded and neither included in the forms of state statistical reporting. The manifestations of the epidemic process of blastocyst can be judged based on a small number of studies. Analysis of clinical observations and literature data indicates a variety of forms, localization, and nature of the infection manifestation. This article is devoted to substantiating the need to detect blastocysts in environmental objects (water, soil, surfaces) as potential risk factors for the occurrence of a protozoal infection. At the same time, the studies both of the survival duration in the external environment and influence of various factors the Blastocystis survival have both the theoretical and practical importance. This information can be used in problems of epidemiology and epizootiology, for developing new methods for Blastocystis elimination, and identifying ways of spreading these parasites. Infection risk factors are sanitary and hygienic problems of environmental objects (geographical, environmental and social factors), profession features, contact with animals, use of contaminated water and food, immigration and travel to tropical countries, as well as people with weakened immune status.