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Molento MB, Pires LSA, Dall'Anese J, Yoshitani UY, Almeida T. Prevalence and risk factors of gastrointestinal helminths infection in Brazilian horses: A retrospective study of a 12-year (2008-2019) diagnostic data. Res Vet Sci 2024; 173:105272. [PMID: 38718543 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2024.105272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024]
Abstract
Understanding gastrointestinal parasite distribution is crucial for effective control programs in horses. This study reports the prevalence of helminth infections in horses and selected risk factors (i.e., breed, age, climate, season) by analyzing 19,276 fecal samples from the Laboratory of Veterinary Clinical Parasitology, in Curitiba, Southern Brazil. The analyses were carried out from 2008 to 2019, coming from 153 stud farms located in 60 municipalities of nine Brazilian states. The parasite prevalence was 73.3%, with 72.1% present in the adult population and 80.6% in young horses. Strongyles were present in 100% horse farms. Strongyles had a prevalence of 72.1% with a mean FEC of 453.53 (+/- 717.6). Parascaris spp. had a prevalence of 5.8% and a FEC of 17.11 (+/- 149.2). The tropical wet/monsoon climate (Am) showed the lowest FEC for strongyles and Parascaris spp. when compared to the other climates. In the logistic regression analysis, young horses exhibited 4.6 times higher odds ratio (OR) (3.9-5.5) of Parascaris spp. and 1.2 (1.1-1.4) times higher OR of strongyles egg shedding when compared to adults (P < 0.001). Summer presented a higher risk for Parascaris spp. and Strongyles eggs when compared to the other seasons (P < 0.001). Mangalarga Marchador, Criollo, and Crossbred breeds were identified with higher OR of Parascaris spp. egg shedding than Thoroughbred. The extensive prevalence of strongyles across ages, seasons, breeds, and climates alerts for the risk of clinical manifestations in equines raised on pastures designing optimal health management and parasite control strategies worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcelo Beltrão Molento
- Laboratory of Veterinary Clinical Parasitology, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Paraná, Rua dos Funcionários, 1540, Curitiba, PR CEP: 80035-050, Brazil.
| | - Luciana S A Pires
- Laboratory of Veterinary Clinical Parasitology, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Paraná, Rua dos Funcionários, 1540, Curitiba, PR CEP: 80035-050, Brazil
| | - Julia Dall'Anese
- Laboratory of Veterinary Clinical Parasitology, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Paraná, Rua dos Funcionários, 1540, Curitiba, PR CEP: 80035-050, Brazil
| | - Ursula Y Yoshitani
- Laboratory of Veterinary Clinical Parasitology, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Paraná, Rua dos Funcionários, 1540, Curitiba, PR CEP: 80035-050, Brazil
| | - Thayany Almeida
- Laboratory of Veterinary Clinical Parasitology, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Paraná, Rua dos Funcionários, 1540, Curitiba, PR CEP: 80035-050, Brazil
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Getahun YA, Tsalke BS, Buzuneh AW, Mejo MM, Habtewold WT. Equine helminths: prevalence and associated risk factors in Gamo Gofa Zone, Ethiopia. J Vet Sci 2024; 25:e41. [PMID: 38834511 PMCID: PMC11156592 DOI: 10.4142/jvs.23291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Equines are indispensable in reducing the huge burden on children and women and income generation. On the other hand, minimal attention is given to improving their health and welfare. OBJECTIVE This study examined the prevalence and associated risk factors of helminth parasites of equine in the Gamo Gofa Zone. METHODS A cross-sectional study was employed from June 2019 to March 2020. The study districts and Kebeles were selected purposively based on agroecology whereas selection of study households and animals were performed based on simple random sampling techniques. Identification of nematode, trematode parasite ova and larvae of D. arnfieldi were done by floatation, sedimentation, and Baermann techniques respectively. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression was applied to estimate the prevalence and association of risk factors with helminth parasites. RESULTS The overall helminth parasite prevalence in the study area was 90.4%, 425/470 (95% [CI], 87.16-92.9). The prevalence of Strongyle, Fasciola, O. equi, P. equorum, D. arnfieldi, and mixed parasite infections were 65.1%, 21.7%, 17.4%, 34%, 34%, and 58.1%, respectively. Infections from Fasciola species and D. arnfieldi infection were four ([AOR], 4.4; 95% CI, 2-9.4) and two times (AOR, 2; 95% CI, 1.1-3.6) respectively more likely occur in donkeys than in mules. The occurrence of Strongyle species in midland agroecology was two times (AOR, 2.6; 95% CI, 1.4-4.7) more likely than lowland agroecology. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE The present study identified diverse species of equine helminth parasites that necessitate urgent disease control and prevention measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yared Abate Getahun
- Livestock and Fishery Research Center, College of Agriculture, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, SNNPR 4400, Ethiopia.
| | - Bekahegn Simeon Tsalke
- Livestock and Fishery Research Center, College of Agriculture, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, SNNPR 4400, Ethiopia
| | - Abreham Wondimu Buzuneh
- Livestock and Fishery Research Center, College of Agriculture, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, SNNPR 4400, Ethiopia
| | - Mekoya Mereta Mejo
- Livestock and Fishery Research Center, College of Agriculture, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, SNNPR 4400, Ethiopia
| | - Wondyfraw Tsegaw Habtewold
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, SNNPR 4400, Ethiopia
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Rendle D, Hughes K, Bowen M, Bull K, Cameron I, Furtado T, Peachey L, Sharpe L, Hodgkinson J. BEVA primary care clinical guidelines: Equine parasite control. Equine Vet J 2024; 56:392-423. [PMID: 38169127 DOI: 10.1111/evj.14036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is a lack of consensus on how best to balance our need to minimise the risk of parasite-associated disease in the individual horse, with the need to limit the use of anthelmintics in the population to preserve their efficacy through delaying further development of resistance. OBJECTIVES To develop evidence-based guidelines utilising a modified GRADE framework. METHODS A panel of veterinary scientists with relevant expertise and experience was convened. Relevant research questions were identified and developed with associated search terms being defined. Evidence in the veterinary literature was evaluated using the GRADE evidence-to-decision framework. Literature searches were performed utilising CAB abstracts and PubMed. Where there was insufficient evidence to answer the research question the panel developed practical guidance based on their collective knowledge and experience. RESULTS Search results are presented, and recommendation or practical guidance were made in response to 37 clinically relevant questions relating to the use of anthelmintics in horses. MAIN LIMITATIONS There was insufficient evidence to answer many of the questions with any degree of certainty and practical guidance frequently had to be based upon extrapolation of relevant information and the panel members' collective experience and opinions. CONCLUSIONS Equine parasite control practices and current recommendations have a weak evidence base. These guidelines highlight changes in equine parasite control that should be considered to reduce the threat of parasite-associated disease and delay the development of further anthelmintic resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kristopher Hughes
- School of Agricultural, Environmental and Veterinary Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Mark Bowen
- Medicine Vet Referrals, Nottinghamshire, UK
| | - Katie Bull
- Bristol Veterinary School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | | | - Tamzin Furtado
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Neston, UK
| | - Laura Peachey
- Bristol Veterinary School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | | | - Jane Hodgkinson
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Neston, UK
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Merlin A, Ravinet N, Briot L, Chauvin A, Hébert L, Valle-Casuso JC, Delerue M. Prevalence and seasonal dynamic of gastrointestinal parasites in equids in France during two years. Prev Vet Med 2024; 223:106100. [PMID: 38198900 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2023.106100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Grazing equids are constantly exposed to three clinically important gastrointestinal parasites (small strongyles/cyathostomins, Anoplocephala spp. and Parascaris spp.). Knowledge of the local seasonal dynamic of these parasitic infections is important for constructing a sustainable parasite control program with a rational number of anthelmintic treatments. However, studies describing these patterns are sparse in France. In this context, a two-year study was carried out to assess i) the seasonal dynamic and variability of strongyle faecal egg counts (FEC) and infective larvae (L3) counts on pastures, and ii) the prevalence of Anoplocephala spp. and Parascaris spp. and the dynamic evolution of their presence. During 2021 and 2022 grazing seasons, monthly individual faecal egg counts (FEC) and diarrhea scores (DS) were determined on 428 equids divided into 33 groups. A monthly body condition score (BCS) was also attributed to animals ≥3 years old and a monthly bodyweight was estimated for each animal <3 years old. At the group level, the strongyle L3 counts on grazed pastures were carried out at least in spring, summer and autumn. Eggs of strongyles were observed in 97% of equids. In 64% of the groups, the peaks of FEC were noted in September and October. At the individual level, the maximum strongyle FEC was related to age, group of breeds, number of grazed plots and number of anthelmintic treatments. No negative association was observed between strongyle FEC and BCS or average daily weight gain. In the pastures, cyathostomin larvae were found almost exclusively. Over the two years, the peaks of cyathostomin L3 counts occurred in 87% of the groups between September and November and ranged from 635 to 87,500 L3 kg-1 dry herbage. The variability of the maximum cyathostomin L3 count in each group was explained by the year and the number of grazed plots. Eggs of Anoplocephala spp. were observed in 12% of equids. Eggs of Parascaris spp. were noted in 34% of one year-old animals, 9% of two years-olds and 2% of olders. Anoplocephala spp. and Parascaris spp. eggs were observed every month with a peak in the percentage of shedders in groups in October for Anoplocephala spp. and May-June for Parascaris spp.This study highlights the prevalence of each parasite, the variability in cyathostomin egg excretion and L3 counts amongst groups and individuals and the factors involved in this variation These local epidemiological data will help us to re-think a newer strategy against these parasites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurélie Merlin
- ANSES, Laboratory for Animal Health in Normandy, Physiopathology and Epidemiology of Equine Diseases Unit, 14430 Goustranville, France; Mixed Technological Unit "Equine Health and Welfare - Organisation and Traceability of the Equine Industry" (UMT SABOT), France.
| | | | - Laurie Briot
- Mixed Technological Unit "Equine Health and Welfare - Organisation and Traceability of the Equine Industry" (UMT SABOT), France; French Horse and Riding Institute (IFCE), Development, Innovation, Research Department, 61310 Gouffern-en-Auge, France
| | | | - Laurent Hébert
- ANSES, Laboratory for Animal Health in Normandy, Physiopathology and Epidemiology of Equine Diseases Unit, 14430 Goustranville, France; Mixed Technological Unit "Equine Health and Welfare - Organisation and Traceability of the Equine Industry" (UMT SABOT), France
| | - José-Carlos Valle-Casuso
- ANSES, Laboratory for Animal Health in Normandy, Physiopathology and Epidemiology of Equine Diseases Unit, 14430 Goustranville, France; Mixed Technological Unit "Equine Health and Welfare - Organisation and Traceability of the Equine Industry" (UMT SABOT), France
| | - Marie Delerue
- Mixed Technological Unit "Equine Health and Welfare - Organisation and Traceability of the Equine Industry" (UMT SABOT), France; French Horse and Riding Institute (IFCE), Development, Innovation, Research Department, 61310 Gouffern-en-Auge, France
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Simões J, Sales Luís JP, Madeira de Carvalho L, Tilley P. Severely Asthmatic Horses Residing in a Mediterranean Climate Shed a Significantly Lower Number of Parasite Eggs Compared to Healthy Farm Mates. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2928. [PMID: 37760328 PMCID: PMC10525552 DOI: 10.3390/ani13182928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 09/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The relationship between helminth infection and allergic diseases has long intrigued the scientific community. This interaction was previously studied in a horse family with high incidence of severe equine asthma and in non-related severely asthmatic horses from equine hospital referrals in Switzerland. Our aim was to determine if this interaction would also be observed in a group of non-related client-owned severely asthmatic horses living in a Mediterranean climate and recruited through a first-opinion veterinarian group. Fecal samples from severe equine asthma-affected and healthy horses living in the same farms and subjected to identical environmental and deworming management were evaluated qualitatively and quantitatively. Strongyle-type eggs and Cyathostomum sensu latum larvae were the most abundant parasites in the studied population of horses; no significant differences between the groups were observed regarding the types of egg and infective larvae. However, we observed significant differences in the number of eggs and infective larvae per gram of feces shed, as this number was significantly lower in the SEA group than in the healthy horses. This may indicate that severely asthmatic horses have an intrinsic resistance to gastrointestinal helminths. Further studies in a larger population of horses are required to ascertain the immunological mechanisms responsible for these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana Simões
- Equine Health and Welfare Academic Division, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Lusófona University, Campo Grande 376, 1749-024 Lisbon, Portugal
- CIISA—Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, 1300-477 Lisbon, Portugal; (J.P.S.L.); (L.M.d.C.); (P.T.)
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4Animals), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, 1300-477 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - José Paulo Sales Luís
- CIISA—Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, 1300-477 Lisbon, Portugal; (J.P.S.L.); (L.M.d.C.); (P.T.)
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4Animals), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, 1300-477 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Luís Madeira de Carvalho
- CIISA—Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, 1300-477 Lisbon, Portugal; (J.P.S.L.); (L.M.d.C.); (P.T.)
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4Animals), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, 1300-477 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Paula Tilley
- CIISA—Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, 1300-477 Lisbon, Portugal; (J.P.S.L.); (L.M.d.C.); (P.T.)
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4Animals), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, 1300-477 Lisbon, Portugal
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Elghandour MMMY, Maggiolino A, Vázquez-Mendoza P, Alvarado-Ramírez ER, Cedillo-Monroy J, De Palo P, Salem AZM. Moringa oleifera as a Natural Alternative for the Control of Gastrointestinal Parasites in Equines: A Review. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:plants12091921. [PMID: 37176979 PMCID: PMC10181162 DOI: 10.3390/plants12091921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Studies have shown a wide variety of parasites that infect horses, causing major gastrointestinal damage that can lead to death, and although the main method of control has been synthetic anthelmintics, there are parasites that have developed resistance to these drugs. For generations, plants have been used throughout the world as a cure or treatment for countless diseases and their symptoms, as is the case of Moringa oleifera, a plant native to the western region. In all its organs, mainly in leaves, M. oleifera presents a diversity of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, tannins, phenolic acids, saponins, and vitamins, which provide antioxidant power to the plant. The compounds with the greatest antiparasitic activity are tannins and saponins, and they affect both the larvae and the oocytes of various equine gastrointestinal parasites. Therefore, M. oleifera is a promising source for the natural control of gastrointestinal parasites in horses.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Aristide Maggiolino
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari A. Moro, Valenzano, 70010 Bari, Italy
| | - Paulina Vázquez-Mendoza
- Facultad Maya de Estudios Agropecuarios, Universidad Autónoma de Chiapas, Catazajá 29980, Chiapas, Mexico
| | | | - José Cedillo-Monroy
- Temascaltepec University Center, Autonomous University of the State of Mexico, Temascaltepec 51300, Estado de México, Mexico
| | - Pasquale De Palo
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari A. Moro, Valenzano, 70010 Bari, Italy
| | - Abdelfattah Zeidan Mohamed Salem
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Zootechnics, Autonomous University of the State of Mexico, Toluca 50295, Estado de México, Mexico
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