Copro-Molecular Identification of Microsporidia in Rural Communities of Kapit Division, Sarawak

Rohiit, Baskaran and Anis Alisa, Bolhi and Clarissa Sudan, Jerry Langkop and Mohamad Ikh’wan Saputra, Mohamad Pajar and Siti Farah Norasyikeen, Sidi Omar and Khatijah, Yaman and Romano, Ngui (2025) Copro-Molecular Identification of Microsporidia in Rural Communities of Kapit Division, Sarawak. In: 4th Asia Pacific Rickettsial Conference (APRC4), 30 -September - 1 October 2025, Penang, Malaysia.

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Abstract

Introduction: Microsporidia are obligate intracellular parasites of growing global concern, particularly among immunocompromised populations. In Malaysia, the burden of microsporidiosis remains underexplored, especially within the general community, as most studies have focused on immunocompromised patients. Factors such as limited healthcare access, untreated water sources, and close human-animal interactions further increase the risk of transmission. In this context, the present study aims to determine the prevalence of microsporidia among the rural longhouse communities in Kapit, Sarawak. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from April to July 2024 in two longhouse communities within the Kapit Division: RH Jampong (Kapit) and Bakun Resettlement Scheme (BRS) Sungai Asap (Belaga). Socio-demographic and environmental data were collected using pre-tested questionnaires to identify potential risk factors associated with microsporidial infection. Stool samples were examined microscopically following Gram-Chromotrope Kinyoun (GCK) staining for the presence of microsporidia spores. Samples that tested positive microscopically were subjected to molecular analysis using polymerase chain reaction (PCR), targeting the small subunit ribosomal RNA (SSU rRNA) regions specific to Enterocytozoon bieneusi and Encephalitozoon intestinalis. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS, with a significance level set at p < 0.05. Results: Microscopy detected microsporidian spores in 22 samples (32.8%; 95% CI: 21.5%–44.1%), while PCR confirmed E. bieneusi DNA in 10 samples (14.7%). Kampung Jampong showed slightly higher microscopy (35.5%), and PCR (17.1%) positivity compared to Sungai Asap (30.6% and 11.1%, respectively). Infection was most prevalent among children aged 7–12 years (35.3%) and farmers (57.1%), indicating age and occupational exposure as key risk factors. Discussion/Conclusion: This study highlights a notable prevalence of E. bieneusi among rural communities in Kapit, with children and farmers most affected. Findings emphasize the role of environmental and occupational exposure in the transmission of disease. The data support the need for targeted public health interventions and enhance understanding of microsporidiosis in underserved Malaysian populations. Molecular diagnostics proved essential for confirmation.

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