1
|
Ha TV, Vo TTN, Dang DKH, Tran YML, Kim TV, Le DH, Do LAT, Tang HK. The seroprevalence of toxocariasis and related risk factors in children in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam: results from a school-based cross-sectional study. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2024; 118:384-390. [PMID: 38261661 DOI: 10.1093/trstmh/trad102] [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: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Children are especially vulnerable to Toxocara infection and its severe complications; however, there have not been any published data on the disease prevalence and treatment effectiveness in the population of Vietnamese children. This study was conducted to determine the prevalence of toxocariasis and explore factors associated with Toxocara infection in children aged 3-15 y in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional study using a multistage cluster sampling approach in public schools. Blood samples were collected, and toxocariasis cases were confirmed, based on a history of contact with dogs/cats and positive anti-Toxocara antibody detection via ELISA. We calculated the percentage of seropositive children across gender, grade levels, districts and caregiver education. Multiple regression models were employed to identify potential risk factors. RESULTS Anti-Toxocara antibodies were found in 14.2% of the 986 children studied. Significant variations in seropositivity were observed across grade levels, districts and caregiver education levels. Multivariable analysis identified caregiver education, contact with dogs/cats and improper handling of pet feces as seropositivity risk factors. CONCLUSION This was the first community-based prevalence study of toxocariasis in a pediatric population in Vietnam. Implementation of preventive measures such as public education, routine fecal examinations and chemotherapeutic treatment of animals is highly recommended.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thieu V Ha
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Pham Ngoc Thach University of Medicine, 2 Duong Quang Trung Str., Dist. 10, 72500, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- Department of Gastroenterology, Children's Hospital 2, 14 Ly Tu Trong Str., Dist. 1, 71000, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Tien T N Vo
- Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Pham Ngoc Thach University of Medicine, 2 Duong Quang Trung Str., Dist. 10, 72500, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Duy K H Dang
- Pham Ngoc Thach University of Medicine, 2 Duong Quang Trung Str., Dist. 10, 72500, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Y M L Tran
- Pham Ngoc Thach University of Medicine, 2 Duong Quang Trung Str., Dist. 10, 72500, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Thanh V Kim
- Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Public Health, Pham Ngoc Thach University of Medicine, 2 Duong Quang Trung Str., Dist. 10, 72500, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Duc H Le
- Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Public Health, Pham Ngoc Thach University of Medicine, 2 Duong Quang Trung Str., Dist. 10, 72500, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Lan-Anh T Do
- Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Public Health, Pham Ngoc Thach University of Medicine, 2 Duong Quang Trung Str., Dist. 10, 72500, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Hong K Tang
- Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Public Health, Pham Ngoc Thach University of Medicine, 2 Duong Quang Trung Str., Dist. 10, 72500, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Awais MM, Zahoor S, Akhtar M, Anwar MI, Shirwany ASAK, Ali MA, Bhatti MS, Razzaq A. Prevalence of antibodies to Toxocara canis and its associated risk factors in socio-economically deprived nomadic communities of Pakistan. Zoonoses Public Health 2023; 70:616-626. [PMID: 37381108 DOI: 10.1111/zph.13070] [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: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
Toxocariasis is an important zoonotic disease caused by Toxocara (T.) canis with considerably higher prevalence in developing countries. The data on its epidemiology, especially in socioeconomically deprived nomadic communities, are scarce in Pakistan. Therefore, this study was conducted to determine the prevalence of anti-T. canis antibodies and its associated risk factors in nomadic communities located in and around Multan, Pakistan. A total of 184 sera samples were collected from nomadic communities by simple random sampling technique. The descriptive epidemiological data of participants were collected on well-designed questionnaires. Prior consent was also obtained from the participants to use the data generated from their samples without showing their identity. All the samples were analysed for the detection of anti-T. canis antibodies using commercially available Enzyme-Linked-Immunosorbent-Assay (ELISA) kits having 91% sensitivity and 96% specificity (Bordier Affinity Products, Switzerland). The overall seroprevalence of toxocariasis among nomadic communities was 27.7% (51/184). Various factors, including age, known disease history, nutritional status, contact with dogs, practice of hand washing after contact with dogs, use of unwashed vegetables, body mass index, and drug abuse, showed significant correlation (p < 0.05) with toxocariasis in nomadic communities. Conversely, other factors, including gender, marital status, educational status, awareness about zoonotic diseases, source of drinking water, occupation, location, hand washing before taking food, exposure to soil, and hygienic eating behaviour, showed non-significant correlation (p > 0.05) with seroprevalence of toxocariasis. Results also showed that >50% of seropositive cases were asymptomatic, whereas cough and abdominal pain were recorded in 19.6% and 11.76% of seropositive cases, respectively. Keeping in view, it is suggested to conduct surveys at mass level to rule out the exact disease status at national level and to include nomadic communities in local, national, and regional disease control programs through provision of better healthcare facilities and awareness about the disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mian Muhammad Awais
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, One Health Research Laboratory, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, Pakistan
| | - Seemab Zahoor
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, One Health Research Laboratory, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, Pakistan
| | - Masood Akhtar
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, One Health Research Laboratory, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Irfan Anwar
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, One Health Research Laboratory, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, Pakistan
| | - Abdul Sammad Ali Khan Shirwany
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, One Health Research Laboratory, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Amjad Ali
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, Pakistan
| | | | - Abdul Razzaq
- Animal Sciences Division, Pakistan Agricultural Research Council, Islamabad, Pakistan
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Amoah LAO, Oppong M, Amoah SK, Bimi L. Toxocariasis in Ghanaian neighbourhoods: a need for action. SCIENCE IN ONE HEALTH 2023; 2:100018. [PMID: 39077038 PMCID: PMC11262292 DOI: 10.1016/j.soh.2023.100018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/31/2024]
Abstract
Background Animal reservoirs of Toxocara spp., a neglected parasitic infection, are frequently found in many Ghanaian neighbourhoods. Despite various interactions occurring between these animals and humans which sustain zoonosis, not much focus has been directed at disease surveillance in Ghana, necessitating this study. Methods The study was cross-sectional. It combined the collection of biological samples with the survey approach. The study used purposive and convenience sampling techniques to collect data from eligible participants in the Greater Accra region of Ghana. Besides the collection of biological samples from animals which were processed using molecular techniques, semi-structured questionnaires were administered to the pet owners. Results In sum, 32.2% (95% CI, 27.6%-37.0%) of the targeted animals were positive for Toxocara canis, with most of the cases being found in dogs and rodents. Among the 204 rodents, more Praomys tulbergi were positive for this parasite compared to the others. From the survey, some risk factors culminating in high disease exposure were identified: more than one-third of pet owners did not deworm their pets although about a fourth shared bed with them. In addition, many respondents' kids played with these pets but not all supervised them to practice hand hygiene. Also, a good number of pet owners confirmed the frequent exposure of their pets to rodents. Conclusions The relatively high prevalence of T. canis recorded in animals and the increasing exposure of humans to this parasite point to a higher risk for human toxocariasis. Furthermore, T. canis found in cats cannot be ignored and merits further investigations. For Ghana to achieve SDG 3 by 2030, priority must also be placed on neglected diseases which calls for an integrated approach to disease surveillance and a redirection of research focus using the one health concept.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Mavis Oppong
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Hohoe, Ghana
| | | | - Langbong Bimi
- Department of Animal Biology and Conservation Science, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Merigueti YFFB, Giuffrida R, da Silva RC, Kmetiuk LB, Santos APD, Biondo AW, Santarém VA. Dog and Cat Contact as Risk Factor for Human Toxocariasis: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Front Public Health 2022; 10:854468. [PMID: 35836995 PMCID: PMC9273826 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.854468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxocariasis, a neglected parasitic zoonosis with worldwide distribution, has been reportedly associated to different risk factors in several epidemiological and meta-analysis studies. However, dog and cat contact (environmental and animal exposure) as isolated associated risk factor for children and adults remains to be fully established. Accordingly, the present meta-analysis has aimed to directly assess dog and cat contact for toxocariasis seropositivity in under-18 and adult persons, using a survey strategy of PubMed/Medline, Embase, Scopus and Scielo Databases, from January 2009 to December 2021. A meta-analysis model of random effects was applied to estimate odds ratio (OR) with 95% Confidence Interval (CI). The statistical heterogeneity was evaluated by the Cochran Q-Test and I2 values. A total of 41 transversal studies (n = 20.515 individuals) from different geographic regions (classified by the World Health Organization) were included herein. In overall, 1,882/13,496 (13.95%; 95% IC = 13.4–14.5) youngers and 513/7.019 (7.3%; 95% CI = 6.7–7.9) adults in contact with dogs or cats were serologically reagent for anti-Toxocara antibodies. Association of dog and cat contact was observed only in youngers, with both dogs (OR = 1.53; p < 0.0001) and cats (OR = 1.64; p = 0.0001). In addition, association of dog and contact and serology was statistically significant in populations of Americas (OR = 1.37; 95% CI = 1.1–1.7), Middle East (OR = 2.9; 95% CI = 1.6–5.1) and West Pacific (OR = 1.6; 95% IC = 1.3–1.9). In conclusion, contact with dogs and cats, particularly by younger individuals and in regions such as Americas, Middle East, and West Pacific, should be always a public health concern for toxocariasis. Moreover, dogs and cats should be periodically dewormed, washed and hair cleaned prior to contact with youngers. Finally, robust statistical results herein may serve as basis for future strategies and preventive measures for safer dog and cat contact.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Rogerio Giuffrida
- Graduate College of Animal Science, University of Western São Paulo (UNOESTE), Presidente Prudente, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo Costa da Silva
- Graduate College of Animal Science, University of Western São Paulo (UNOESTE), Presidente Prudente, Brazil
| | - Louise Bach Kmetiuk
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Instituto Carlos Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Curitiba, Brazil
| | - Andrea Pires Dos Santos
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | | | - Vamilton Alvares Santarém
- Graduate College of Animal Science, University of Western São Paulo (UNOESTE), Presidente Prudente, Brazil
- *Correspondence: Vamilton Alvares Santarém
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Foroutan M, Soltani S, Bahadoram S, Maghsoudi F, Kamyari N, Haddadi S. Seroprevalence and risk factors of Toxocara canis infection in children aged 2–15 years from the southwest Iran. Comp Immunol Microbiol Infect Dis 2022; 85:101801. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cimid.2022.101801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Revised: 03/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
|
6
|
Na-Ek P, Narkkul U, Phasuk N, Punsawad C. Seroprevalence of anti-Toxocara canis antibodies and associated risk factors among dog owners in the rural community of Nakhon Si Thammarat province, southern Thailand. Trop Med Health 2022; 50:32. [PMID: 35581656 PMCID: PMC9112435 DOI: 10.1186/s41182-022-00425-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Human toxocariasis is a zoonotic parasitic disease caused by the Toxocara canis and T. cati nematodes larvae. Dog owners are at a higher risk of acquiring T. canis infection, and there is no available evidence regarding the seroprevalence of T. canis infection among dog owners in Thailand. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the seroprevalence of T. canis infection and associated risk factors among dog owners in rural areas of Thailand. Methods A total of 132 dog owners, including 25 men and 107 women, were recruited for this study. Serum anti-T. canis IgG antibodies were detected using a commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit, and information on risk factors was collected using a questionnaire. In addition, hematological parameters were analyzed by the auto hematology analyzer. Risk variables associated with T. canis infection were investigated using univariate and multivariate logistic regression models. Results The overall seroprevalence of T. canis was 76.5% (101/132). Men were more likely to be infected with T. canis than women. Univariate analysis revealed that dog owners who did not practice handwashing before meals (p = 0.005) or after contact with soil (p = 0.035) or dogs (p = 0.049) had a substantially higher risk of acquiring T. canis infection. After adjusting for confounders, not practicing handwashing before meals remained a significant risk factor for T. canis infection (p = 0.038). The mean number of eosinophils was significantly higher in the seropositive group than in the seronegative group. Conclusions This is the first serological report of T. canis infection among dog owners reflecting the high rate of T. canis seropositivity in rural areas of southern Thailand. This study also provides group-specific data concerning modifiable risk behaviors for more effective T. canis infection control and prevention strategies in Thailand. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s41182-022-00425-4.
Collapse
|
7
|
Epidemiological study of gastrointestinal helminths among dogs from Northeastern Nigeria: a potential public health concern. Parasitol Res 2022; 121:2179-2186. [PMID: 35543746 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-022-07538-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Understanding the epidemiology of canine parasitic infections, gastrointestinal helminthic infections in particular, is crucial for designing an efficient control programs targeted at minimizing the risks of zoonotic transmission. A total of 470 dogs attending veterinary clinics in Northeastern Nigeria were screened for gastrointestinal helminths using standard parasitological techniques. Epidemiological risk factors associated with the canine parasitic infections were assessed using multivariable logistic regression analysis. In total, 77.9% (366/470) of dogs had harboured one or more species of the gastrointestinal helminths: Ancylostoma caninum (40.2%), Toxocara canis (35.1%) Trichuris vulpis (26.6%), Spirocerca lupi (5.7%), Taenia/Echinococcus (12.3%), Dipylidium caninum (10.9%) and Diphyllobothriid ova (2.8%). Female dogs (OR=2.1; p=0.02), local breeds (OR=2.3; p<0.01), younger dogs (OR=3.2; p<0.001), dogs adopted as security guards (OR=1.8; p<0.01) and poor body condition score (OR=3.1; p<0.001) were strongly associated with A. caninum infection. For T. canis and T. vulpis, younger dogs (OR=2.5; p=0.02 and OR=2.3; p<0.01) and poor body condition score (OR=4.2; p<0.001 and OR=2.2; p<0.01) were the strong predictors for infection, whereas female dogs (OR=2.8; p=0.02), younger dogs (OR=4.1; p<0.001) and poor body condition score (OR=4.0; p<0.001) were strongly associated with D. caninum infection in dogs. The results revealed high prevalence of gastrointestinal helminths-some of which have zoonotic potential-among dogs underlying huge public health risk.
Collapse
|
8
|
De NV, Minh PN, Bich NN, Chai JY. Seroprevalence of Tissue and Luminal Helminths among Patients in Hanoi Medical University Hospital, Vietnam, 2018. THE KOREAN JOURNAL OF PARASITOLOGY 2020; 58:387-392. [PMID: 32871632 PMCID: PMC7462806 DOI: 10.3347/kjp.2020.58.4.387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
A serological survey was performed using ELISA to estimate the prevalence of tissue and luminal helminthic infections among hospital patients in Hanoi region, Vietnam. An overall seroprevalence of tissue and luminal helminthiases was 64.0% (95% CI 61.2–66.8) among 1,120 patients who visited Hanoi Medical University Hospital, Vietnam in 2018. The highest seroprevalence was observed against Toxocara spp. (59.0%), followed by Strongyloides stercoralis (46.3%), Gnathostoma spp. (25.5%), cysticercus (12.8%), Angiostrongylus cantonensis (10.5%), Fasciola spp. (11.1%), and Clonorchis sinensis (8.7%). Mono-infection by one species (11.1%) was lower than multiple infections (53.0%) (P<0.05). The seroprevalence in males (59.3%) was lower than in females (66.2%) but not statistically significant (P>0.05). Children (<15 years) revealed lower seroprevalence (34.0%) than adults (68.4%), and the age group 51–70 years revealed the highest seroprevalence (76.0%). Among the seropositive patients, eosinophilia (≥8.0%) was noted in 80.2%. The present results suggested active transmission of various tissue and luminal helminths among people in Hanoi, Vietnam.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nguyen Van De
- Department of Parasitology, Hanoi Medical University, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Pham Ngoc Minh
- Department of Parasitology, Hanoi Medical University, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Nguyen Ngoc Bich
- Department of Parasitology, Hanoi Medical University, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Jong-Yil Chai
- Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Korea Association of Health Promotion, Seoul 07649, and Department of Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Wang S, Li H, Yao Z, Li P, Wang D, Zhang H, Xie Q, Zhang Z, Li X. Toxocara infection: seroprevalence and associated risk factors among primary school children in central China. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 27:30. [PMID: 32374716 PMCID: PMC7202827 DOI: 10.1051/parasite/2020028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2020] [Accepted: 04/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Toxocariasis is a zoonotic disease that poses a threat to public health worldwide. In the present study, we investigated the seroprevalence of Toxocara infection among primary school children in Henan province, central China, which was previously unknown. Sera from 2451 primary school children were collected from September 2015 to October 2018, and evaluated for anti-Toxocara antibodies by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The overall seroprevalence of Toxocara infection was 5.14% (126/2451). The main risk factors related to Toxocara infection identified in this study were the age of children, residence area of children, contact with cats or dogs, and exposure to soil. Hand washing before eating was considered to be a protective factor. These findings demonstrate that Toxocara infection is relatively common among primary school children in Henan province.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Wang
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003 Henan, PR China
| | - Haoran Li
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003 Henan, PR China
| | - Zhijun Yao
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003 Henan, PR China
| | - Pengju Li
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003 Henan, PR China
| | - Dong Wang
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003 Henan, PR China
| | - Haizhu Zhang
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003 Henan, PR China
| | - Qing Xie
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003 Henan, PR China
| | - Zhenchao Zhang
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003 Henan, PR China
| | - Xiangrui Li
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003 Henan, PR China - MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095 Jiangsu, PR China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Phasuk N, Punsawad C. Seroprevalence of Toxocara canis infection and associated risk factors among primary schoolchildren in rural Southern Thailand. Trop Med Health 2020; 48:23. [PMID: 32336929 PMCID: PMC7175560 DOI: 10.1186/s41182-020-00211-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 04/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human toxocariasis is a parasitic zoonosis caused by a parasite in the genus Toxocara and is transmitted mainly by the accidental ingestion of embryonated Toxocara canis (dog roundworm) or T. cati (cat roundworm) eggs. Several studies reported that children were the main population at risk for T. canis infection. Currently, no reports on the seroprevalence of T. canis infection in Thailand are available, and its status remains unknown among children who live in rural areas of southern Thailand. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to investigate the seroprevalence of T. canis infection and its associated risk factors among primary schoolchildren in rural areas of Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, Thailand. METHODS A total of 177 schoolchildren between 6 and 13 years of age were recruited between June and July 2019. Serum anti-T. canis IgG antibodies were detected with a commercial ELISA kit. A questionnaire administered by direct interviews was used to collect demographic and behavioral risk factor data. RESULTS The overall seroprevalence of T. canis infection was 58.2% (103 of 177). The univariate analysis revealed that schoolchildren who did not practice handwashing before a meal (crude odds ratio (COR) = 3.67, 95% CI 1.93-6.95, P < 0.001), did not practice hand washing after animal contact (COR = 2.89, 95% CI 1.53-5.47, P = 0.001), and drank untreated water (COR = 1.87, 95% CI 1.00-3.48, P = 0.049) had an increased risk of acquiring T. canis infection. However, after adjusting for confounders, only a lack of handwashing before a meal remained a significant risk factor (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 2.20, 95% CI 1.11-4.34, P = 0.023). Age, sex, owning a dog, and eating fresh vegetables were not significantly associated with T. canis infection in the current study. CONCLUSIONS This is the first serological investigation of T. canis infection among schoolchildren in Thailand. The high rate of Toxocara seropositivity reflected high levels of exposure to T. canis among schoolchildren in rural areas of southern Thailand. The results also provide baseline data regarding modifiable risk behaviors for effective T. canis infection prevention strategies in southern Thailand, especially strengthening hand washing practices among schoolchildren.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nonthapan Phasuk
- School of Medicine, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand
| | - Chuchard Punsawad
- School of Medicine, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Ikotun K, Sowemimo O, Chou CM, Ajenifuja K, Chuang TW, Asaolu S, Akinwale O, Gyang V, Nwafor T, Henry E, Fan CK. High seroprevalence of Toxocara antibodies in pregnant women attending an antenatal clinic at a university hospital in Ile-Ife, Nigeria. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2020; 114:301-307. [PMID: 31925444 DOI: 10.1093/trstmh/trz116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2019] [Revised: 10/09/2019] [Accepted: 05/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human toxocariasis is a neglected zoonotic disease and its impact on human health is underestimated. Studies investigating the occurrence of toxocariasis in pregnancy are very scarce in Nigeria. This study investigated the seroprevalence of Toxocara spp. antibodies as well as the possible risk factors in pregnant women who routinely attended an antenatal clinic in a university hospital in Ile-Ife, Osun state. METHODS Blood samples were collected from 413 participating pregnant women between October 2017 and February 2018. Epidemiological data were obtained through a structured questionnaire. The sera were screened for anti-Toxocara IgG antibodies by western blot technique based on Toxocara canis larval excretory-secretory antigens, targeting low molecular weight bands of 24-35 kDa, specifically for T. canis infection. RESULTS The overall seroprevalence was 92.49% (382/413). There was no significant difference in the seroprevalence rate of Toxocara spp. infection between pregnant women aged ≤30 y and those aged >30 y (91.63 vs 93.33%; OR 1.28, 95% CI 0.61 to 2.67, p=0.511). The seroprevalence rate increased with the number of miscarriages but there was no statistical significance (p>0.05). Moreover, no significant associations were found between Toxocara spp. seropositivity and other studied risk factors (p>0.05). CONCLUSION The high seroprevalence of Toxocara spp. in pregnant Nigerian women needs comprehensive health education regarding personal hygiene and how to avoid exposure to this parasite infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kemisola Ikotun
- Department of Zoology, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria
| | - Oluyomi Sowemimo
- Department of Zoology, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria
| | - Chia-Mei Chou
- Department of Molecular Parasitology and Tropical Diseases, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, 250 Wuxing Street, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Kayode Ajenifuja
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology And Perinatology, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile - Ife, Osun State, Nigeria
| | - Ting-Wu Chuang
- Department of Molecular Parasitology and Tropical Diseases, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, 250 Wuxing Street, Taipei 11031, Taiwan.,Tropical Medicine Division, International PhD Program in Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.,PhD Program in Global Health and Health Security, College of Public Health, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Samuel Asaolu
- Department of Zoology, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria
| | - Olaoluwa Akinwale
- Molecular Parasitology Research Laboratory, Department of Public Health, Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, Yaba, Lagos State, Nigeria
| | - Vincent Gyang
- Molecular Parasitology Research Laboratory, Department of Public Health, Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, Yaba, Lagos State, Nigeria
| | - Timothy Nwafor
- Molecular Parasitology Research Laboratory, Department of Public Health, Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, Yaba, Lagos State, Nigeria
| | - Emmanuel Henry
- Molecular Parasitology Research Laboratory, Department of Public Health, Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, Yaba, Lagos State, Nigeria
| | - Chia-Kwung Fan
- Department of Molecular Parasitology and Tropical Diseases, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, 250 Wuxing Street, Taipei 11031, Taiwan.,Tropical Medicine Division, International PhD Program in Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.,PhD Program in Global Health and Health Security, College of Public Health, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Aghamolaie S, Seyyedtabaei SJ, Behniafar H, Foroutan M, Saber V, Hanifehpur H, Mehravar S, Rostami A. Seroepidemiology, modifiable risk factors and clinical symptoms of Toxocara spp. infection in northern Iran. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2020; 113:116-122. [PMID: 30407595 DOI: 10.1093/trstmh/try118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2018] [Revised: 10/01/2018] [Accepted: 10/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxocariasis is one of the most important and widespread neglected tropical infectious diseases. We designed a cross-sectional study to assess the seroepidemiological aspects of toxocariasis among the general population in northern Iran. A total of 630 rural subjects were enrolled to participate in the study. The presence of anti-Toxocara immunoglobulin G (IgG) was tested using a commercially available enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. A structured questionnaire was also used to evaluate the potential risk factors and related clinical signs/symptoms. The presence of anti-Toxocara IgG antibodies was detected in 148 of the 630 rural subjects (23.5% [95% confidence interval {CI} 21.8 to 25.1]). By multivariate analysis, age (odds ratio [OR] 2.89 [95% CI 1 to -8.3], p=0.04), eating improperly washed vegetables (OR 4.05 [95% CI 2.47 to 6.64], p<0.001), contact with dogs (OR 3.31 [95% CI 2.13 to 5.12], p<0.001) and exposure to soil (OR 3.56 [95% CI 2.13 to 5.13], p<0.001) were significantly associated with the seroprevalence of Toxocara. The clinical study also demonstrated that the seroprevalence of Toxocara infection was significantly associated with asthma (OR 3.78 [95% CI 1.63 to 8.75], p<0.001) and ophthalmic disorder (OR 1.83 [95% CI 1.04 to 3.21], p=0.034). The findings proved that residents of rural communities in tropical regions may be heavily exposed to Toxocara spp. We highly recommend more investigations in high-risk groups.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Somayeh Aghamolaie
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyyed Javad Seyyedtabaei
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamed Behniafar
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Masoud Foroutan
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Vafa Saber
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hooman Hanifehpur
- Department of Biological Control and Vaccine, Food and Drug Administration, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saeed Mehravar
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Rostami
- Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran.,Immunoregulation Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Lötsch F, Grobusch MP. Seroprevalence of Toxocara spp. antibodies in humans in Africa: A review. ADVANCES IN PARASITOLOGY 2020; 109:483-499. [PMID: 32381214 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apar.2020.01.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human toxocariasis occurs worldwide and is caused by nematodes of the species of the genus Toxocara. Infection occurs by the ingestion of eggs and is usually asymptomatic or oligosymptomatic. However, severe manifestations occur. The burden of disease and its public health impact remain ill-defined. The aim of this review was to summarize all available data on the seroprevalence of toxocariasis on the African continent and factors associated with seropositivity. METHODS Twenty-seven original papers published between 1991 and 2017 were identified that provided data suitable for this review. Case-control studies were included and the seroprevalence in the (healthy) control group was used as a surrogate parameter. RESULTS Antibodies against Toxocara spp. were found to be frequent in most populations and regions in Africa with the exception of two publications, one from the Democratic Republic of the Congo and one from Djibouti, where all participants were seronegative. The highest proportion of participants with antibodies was found on the island of La Réunion with 359 out 387 study participants being positive (92.8%). Factors associated with seropositivity were reported across studies, including-among others-older age, contact with soil via geophagia, agricultural activity or playing with soil, contact with animals, especially dogs, and low socio-economic status, defined as absence of water supply or poor housing. Three Egyptian studies found male gender to be associated with toxocariasis, whereas in La Réunion females were at increased risk. CONCLUSIONS Exposure to toxocariasis seems to be very frequent and common in large parts of the African continent. However, no data are available for most countries. The public health impact of human toxocariasis and the frequency of severe manifestations remain unclear.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Felix Lötsch
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Department of Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Martin Peter Grobusch
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Centre of Tropical Medicine and Travel Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, location AMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
|
15
|
Mackinnon E, Ayah R, Taylor R, Owor M, Ssempebwa J, Olago LD, Kubalako R, Dia AT, Gaye C, C Campos L, Fottrell E. 21st century research in urban WASH and health in sub-Saharan Africa: methods and outcomes in transition. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH 2019; 29:457-478. [PMID: 30545246 DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2018.1550193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2018] [Accepted: 11/15/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Tackling global inequalities in access to Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) remains an urgent issue - 58% of annual diarrhoeal deaths are caused by inadequate WASH provision. A global context of increasing urbanisation, changing demographics and health transitions demands an understanding and impact of WASH on a broad set of health outcomes. We examine the literature, in terms of health outcomes, considering WASH access and interventions in urban sub-Saharan Africa from 2000 to 2017. Our review of studies which evaluate the effectiveness of specific WASH interventions, reveals an emphasis of WASH research on acute communicable diseases, particularly diarrhoeal diseases. In contrast, chronic communicable and non-communicable health outcomes were notable gaps in the literature as well as a lack of focus on cross-cutting issues, such as ageing, well-being and gender equality. We recommend a broader focus of WASH research and interventions in urban Africa to better reflect the demographic and health transitions happening. Abbreviations: CBA: Controlled Before and After; GSD: Government Service Delivery; IWDSSD: International Drinking-Water, Supply and Sanitation Decade (IDWSSD); KAP: Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices; IBD: Irritable Bowel Diseases; MDG: Millennium Development Goals; NTD: Neglected Tropical Diseases; PSSD: Private Sector Service Delivery; SDG: Sustainable Development Goals; SSA: Sub Saharan Africa; SODIS: Solar Disinfection System; STH: Soil Transmitted Helminths; RCT: Randomised Control Trial; WASH: Water Sanitation and Hygiene; WHO: World Health Organization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eve Mackinnon
- a Civil, Environmental and Geomatic Engineering , University College London , London , United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Richard Ayah
- b Faculty of Science Engineering and Health , Daystar University Nairobi , Nairobi , Kenya
| | - Richard Taylor
- c Department of Geography , University College London , London , United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Michael Owor
- d Department of Geology and Petroleum Studies , Makerere University , Kampala , Uganda
| | - John Ssempebwa
- e College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences , Makerere University , Kampala , Uganda
| | - L Daniel Olago
- b Faculty of Science Engineering and Health , Daystar University Nairobi , Nairobi , Kenya
| | - Robinah Kubalako
- e College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences , Makerere University , Kampala , Uganda
| | - Anta Tal Dia
- f Department of Geology, FST , Universite Cheikh Anta Diop , Dakar , Senegal
| | - Cheikh Gaye
- f Department of Geology, FST , Universite Cheikh Anta Diop , Dakar , Senegal
| | - Luiza C Campos
- a Civil, Environmental and Geomatic Engineering , University College London , London , United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Edward Fottrell
- g University College, London Institute of Global Health , London , United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Bastien M, Vaniscotte A, Combes B, Umhang G, Raton V, Germain E, Villena I, Aubert D, Boué F, Poulle ML. Identifying drivers of fox and cat faecal deposits in kitchen gardens in order to evaluate measures for reducing contamination of fresh fruit and vegetables. Food Waterborne Parasitol 2018; 14:e00034. [PMID: 32095604 PMCID: PMC7034018 DOI: 10.1016/j.fawpar.2018.e00034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2018] [Revised: 12/22/2018] [Accepted: 12/28/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Preventing foodborne pathogen contamination of raw fruit and vegetables in the field is critically important for public health. Specifically, it involves preventing faecal deposit by wildlife or domestic animals in fields of crops and kitchen gardens. The present study aims to identify the drivers of fox, dog and cat faecal deposits in kitchen gardens in order to mitigate the risk of contamination of raw produce with parasites shed in carnivore faeces. The focus was on Echinococcus multilocularis, ranked highest in the importance of foodborne parasites in Europe, but attention was also paid to other parasites of major concern - Toxoplasma gondii and Toxocara spp. During the winters of 2014 to 2016, faecal samples were collected from 192 kitchen gardens located in north-eastern France. From these samples, 77% contained scat of carnivores. Molecular analyses revealed that 59% of the 1016 faeces collected were from cats, 31% from foxes, and 10% from dogs. The ease of accessibility to kitchen gardens, the presence of food in the vicinity, and the composition of the surrounding vegetation were used to explain the distribution of fox and cat faeces. Generalized Linear Mixed Effects modelling showed that: i) fencing was not efficient in reducing cat faecal deposits, but drastically decreases those of foxes; ii) the abundance of Microtus sp. indicates a reason for the presence of both fox and cat faecal deposits, iii) the abundance of Arvicola terrestris, the proximity of fruit trees or farms and the predominance of forest and grassland around the village are all drivers of fox faecal deposits. These results point to the importance of fencing around kitchen gardens located in E. multilocularis endemic areas, particularly those surrounded by forest and grassland or close to fruit trees or farms. 192 kitchen gardens sampled 6 times over 2 winters, 1016 carnivore faeces collected. Fencing, food and vegetation cover tested as explanatory factors for faeces location. Numerous cat faeces, even in enclosed gardens. Microtus sp. drives their deposit. Garden accessibility, food and vegetation cover drive the faecal deposits of foxes. Fencing off kitchen gardens should be encouraged in E. multilocularis endemic areas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M. Bastien
- University of Reims Champagne-Ardenne, SFR Cap Santé, EA 7510 ESCAPE, 51092 Reims cedex, France
- University of Reims Champagne-Ardenne, CERFE, 08240 Boult-aux-Bois, France
- French Establishment for Fighting Zoonoses (ELIZ), Domaine de Pixérécourt, 54220 Malzéville, France
- Corresponding author at: University of Reims Champagne-Ardenne, SFR Cap Santé, EA 7510 ESCAPE, 51092 Reims cedex, France.
| | | | - B. Combes
- French Establishment for Fighting Zoonoses (ELIZ), Domaine de Pixérécourt, 54220 Malzéville, France
| | - G. Umhang
- ANSES, Nancy Laboratory for Rabies and Wildlife, National Reference Laboratory for Echinococcus spp., Wildlife Eco-epidemiology and Surveillance Unit, 54220 Malzéville, France
| | - V. Raton
- French Establishment for Fighting Zoonoses (ELIZ), Domaine de Pixérécourt, 54220 Malzéville, France
| | - E. Germain
- CROC, Carnivore Research and Observation Center, 57590 Lucy, France
| | - I. Villena
- University of Reims Champagne-Ardenne, SFR Cap Santé, EA 7510 ESCAPE, 51092 Reims cedex, France
- University Hospital of Reims, Department of Parasitology-Mycology, National Reference Center for Toxoplasma, 51092 Reims cedex, France
| | - D. Aubert
- University of Reims Champagne-Ardenne, SFR Cap Santé, EA 7510 ESCAPE, 51092 Reims cedex, France
- University Hospital of Reims, Department of Parasitology-Mycology, National Reference Center for Toxoplasma, 51092 Reims cedex, France
| | - F. Boué
- ANSES, Nancy Laboratory for Rabies and Wildlife, National Reference Laboratory for Echinococcus spp., Wildlife Eco-epidemiology and Surveillance Unit, 54220 Malzéville, France
| | - M.-L. Poulle
- University of Reims Champagne-Ardenne, SFR Cap Santé, EA 7510 ESCAPE, 51092 Reims cedex, France
- University of Reims Champagne-Ardenne, CERFE, 08240 Boult-aux-Bois, France
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Fakhri Y, Gasser RB, Rostami A, Fan CK, Ghasemi SM, Javanian M, Bayani M, Armoon B, Moradi B. Toxocara eggs in public places worldwide - A systematic review and meta-analysis. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2018; 242:1467-1475. [PMID: 30142562 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2018.07.087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2018] [Revised: 07/04/2018] [Accepted: 07/19/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Toxocariasis is a neglected tropical disease of humans. Although many studies have indicated or shown that environmental contamination with Toxocara species eggs is a major risk factor for toxocariasis in humans, there has been no comprehensive analysis of published data or information. Here, we conducted the first systematic review and meta-analysis of current literature to assess the global prevalence of Toxocara eggs in public places (including beaches, parks and playgrounds). We conducted searches of the PubMed, Embase, Scopus and Science Direct databases for relevant studies published until 20 April 2018, and assessed the prevalence rates of Toxocara eggs in public places. We used the random effects model to calculate pooled prevalence estimates, with 95% confidence intervals (CIs), and analysed data in relation to WHO geographical regions. Subgroup analysis and meta-regressions regarding the geographical and environmental variables were also performed. Of 2384 publications identified, 109 studies that tested 42,797 soil samples in 40 countries were included in the meta-analysis. The pooled global prevalence of Toxocara eggs in public places was 21% (95% CI, 16-27%; 13,895/42,797). The estimated prevalence rates in the different WHO regions ranged from 13% to 35%: Western Pacific (35%; 95% CI, 15-58%), Africa (27%; 95% CI, 11-47%), South America (25%; 95% CI, 13-33%), South-East Asia (21%; 95% CI, 3-49%), Middle East and North Africa (18%; 95% CI, 11-24%), Europe (18%; 95% CI, 14-22%), and North and Central Americas (13%; 95% CI, 8-23%). A high prevalence was significantly associated with high geographical longitude (P = 0.04), low latitude (P = 0.02) and high relative environmental humidity (P = 0.04). This meta-analysis of data from published records indicates that public places are often heavily contaminated with eggs of Toxocara. This finding calls for measures to reduce the potential risk of infection and disease in humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Y Fakhri
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Student Research Committee, School of Public Health, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - R B Gasser
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3010, Australia
| | - A Rostami
- Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, IR, Iran.
| | - C K Fan
- Department of Molecular Parasitology and Tropical Diseases, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - S M Ghasemi
- Deputy of Health, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - M Javanian
- Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, IR, Iran
| | - M Bayani
- Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, IR, Iran
| | - B Armoon
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Saveh University of Medical Sciences, Saveh, Iran
| | - B Moradi
- Department of Health Public, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Martínez M, Montero J, Pineda A, Mijares V, Lares M, Catalano E, Ferrer E. Epidemiological, clinical and laboratory features of toxocariasis in school children from Aragua State, Venezuela. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2018; 112:255-263. [DOI: 10.1093/trstmh/try051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2018] [Accepted: 05/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- María Martínez
- Departamento de Parasitología, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Carabobo Sede Aragua, Maracay, estado Aragua, Venezuela
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas ‘Dr. Francisco J. Triana Alonso’ (BIOMED) Universidad de Carabobo Sede Aragua, Maracay, estado Aragua, Venezuela
| | - Jesica Montero
- Departamento de Parasitología, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Carabobo Sede Aragua, Maracay, estado Aragua, Venezuela
| | - Adriana Pineda
- Departamento de Parasitología, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Carabobo Sede Aragua, Maracay, estado Aragua, Venezuela
| | - Víctor Mijares
- Departamento de Parasitología, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Carabobo Sede Aragua, Maracay, estado Aragua, Venezuela
| | - María Lares
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas ‘Dr. Francisco J. Triana Alonso’ (BIOMED) Universidad de Carabobo Sede Aragua, Maracay, estado Aragua, Venezuela
| | - Emily Catalano
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas ‘Dr. Francisco J. Triana Alonso’ (BIOMED) Universidad de Carabobo Sede Aragua, Maracay, estado Aragua, Venezuela
| | - Elizabeth Ferrer
- Departamento de Parasitología, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Carabobo Sede Aragua, Maracay, estado Aragua, Venezuela
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas ‘Dr. Francisco J. Triana Alonso’ (BIOMED) Universidad de Carabobo Sede Aragua, Maracay, estado Aragua, Venezuela
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Karshima SN. Parasites of importance for human health on edible fruits and vegetables in Nigeria: a systematic review and meta-analysis of published data. Pathog Glob Health 2018; 112:47-55. [PMID: 29336229 DOI: 10.1080/20477724.2018.1425604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Contamination of edible fruits and vegetables is now a global public health issue despite their health benefits as non-pharmacological prophylaxis against chronic diseases. Studies that will harness the extent of parasitic contaminations will ensure public health protection. Here, the prevalence and distribution of parasites of importance for human health on fruits and vegetables in Nigeria were determined through a systematic review and meta-analysis of published data. The random-effects model was used to determine pooled prevalence estimate (PPE). Heterogeneity was evaluated by the Cochran's Q-test. Parasites overall PPE of 32.4% (95% CI: 0.73, 0.91) was observed from 19 eligible studies reported across 13 Nigerian states. Sub-groups PPEs ranged between 3.5% (95% CI: 0.45, 1.86) and 58.5% (95% CI: 1.40, 4.09). A high degree of heterogeneity 97.53% (95% CI: 0.30, 0.46, P: 0.000) was observed within studies and sub-groups. Cryptosporidium species were the most prevalent, while Ancylostoma duodenale and Ascaris lumbricoides had the widest geographical distribution. Pineapple (Prev: 41.3%, 95% CI: 0.40, 0.75) and lettuce (Prev: 51.5%, 95% CI: 0.37, 0.68) recorded the highest level of parasitic contamination. Parasites of importance for human health are prevalent on edible fruits and vegetables in Nigeria. Prevalence estimates were highest in the South-eastern region and during the most recent decade. Adequate washing of fruits and vegetables, on-farm irrigation of vegetables using good sources of water and adequate hygiene by food handlers will help the general public to maximize the health benefits associated with the intake of fruits and vegetables while minimizing the risk of acquiring parasitic infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Solomon Ngutor Karshima
- a Department of Veterinary Public Health and Preventive Medicine , University of Jos , Jos , Nigeria
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Toxocariasis in humans in Africa - A systematic review. Travel Med Infect Dis 2017; 20:15-25. [PMID: 29037977 DOI: 10.1016/j.tmaid.2017.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2017] [Revised: 09/26/2017] [Accepted: 10/11/2017] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Toxocariasis is a globally distributed zoonosis. The most important definitive hosts are dogs, whereas humans serve as paratenic hosts. Transmission to humans occurs by accidental ingestion of eggs, e.g. by consumption of contaminated fruits or vegetables. Although exposure to Toxocara is usually considered as relatively benign, it is implicated in a range of neurological, ophthalmologic and other organ-specific conditions, some of them with grave consequences. This review provides an overview on the epidemiology, presentation and risk factors of exposure to Toxocara in Africa. METHODS A systematic search was performed for studies published after January 1st, 1990, in English, French, Portuguese, Spanish, Dutch or German. The review was prepared according to PRISMA guidelines. Studies on toxocariasis in human populations and contamination in human environments were included. RESULTS Sixty-five papers were included. Antibodies against Toxocara spp. in humans were found to be very common across Africa. Severe manifestations have been reported mainly from North Africa. Environmental contamination including soil, vegetables and fruits sold on markets was demonstrated in various locations in Africa. CONCLUSIONS Exposure to Toxocara is prevalent across the African continent. However, the complication frequency, the impact of the condition on the individual and the public health relevance of this zoonosis, and the economic impact have never been systematically evaluated.
Collapse
|
21
|
Berrett AN, Erickson LD, Gale SD, Stone A, Brown BL, Hedges DW. Toxocara Seroprevalence and Associated Risk Factors in the United States. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2017; 97:1846-1850. [PMID: 29016316 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.17-0542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Caused by the parasitic nematodes Toxocara canis and cati, toxocariasis in humans can result in covert toxocariasis, ocular toxocariasis, visceral larval migrans, and neurotoxocariasis. A common infection, toxocariasis exposure varies widely within and between countries, with a previous estimate of Toxocara seroprevalence using data from 1988 to 1994 in the United States of approximately 13%. Age, poverty, sex, educational attainment, ethnicity, and region have been associated with Toxocara seroprevalence. In this study, we sought to determine the seroprevalence of and factors associated with Toxocara seropositivity in the United States using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey from 2011 to 2014 to provide a more recent estimate of Toxocara seroprevalence in the United States. We found an overall Toxocara seroprevalence of 5.1%. Increasing age, male sex, low educational attainment, low income, and immigration status each was associated with Toxocara seropositivity. Mexican Americans had reduced odds of exposure. These findings show that exposure to Toxocara continues in the United States and that several demographic factors influence the risk of exposure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Shawn D Gale
- The Neuroscience Center, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah.,Department of Psychology, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah
| | - Allison Stone
- Department of Psychology, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah
| | - Bruce L Brown
- Department of Psychology, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah
| | - Dawson W Hedges
- Department of Psychology, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah.,The Neuroscience Center, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Sowemimo OA, Lee YL, Asaolu SO, Chuang TW, Akinwale OP, Badejoko BO, Gyang VP, Nwafor T, Henry E, Fan CK. Seroepidemiological study and associated risk factors of Toxocara canis infection among preschool children in Osun State, Nigeria. Acta Trop 2017; 173:85-89. [PMID: 28591555 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2017.05.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2017] [Revised: 04/26/2017] [Accepted: 05/28/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Human toxocariasis is caused by the nematode, Toxocara canis and it is a poorly understood phenomenon in Nigeria. Seroepidemiological studies have not been previously carried out among the preschool aged children in Nigeria. A cross-sectional study was conducted in pre-school children in four communities from Osun State, Nigeria between January and July 2016. A total of 308 children Aged 9 months and 5 years were studied comprising 53.2% (164/308) male and 46.8% (144/308) female. Blood samples were collected and screened for the presence of anti-Toxocara IgG antibodies by Western blot analysis based on the excretory-secretory antigens of larva T. canis (TcES), targeting low molecular weight bands of 24 - 35kDa specific for T. canis. Questionnaires were given to parents/guardians of the studied children to collect information regarding relationship between infection and host factors. The overall seroprevalence of Toxocara infection was 37.3%. The seroprevalence in the studied preschool children ranged from 18.2% in children less than one year old to a max of 57.6% in children aged 3 years and above. The logistic regression analysis of risk factors showed that children's age (odds ratio (OR)=6.12, 95% confidence interval (CI)=1.25-29.90, p=0.02), contact with dogs (OR=3.17, 95% CI=1.40-7.20, p=0.01) and parent's religion (OR=0.54, 95% CI=0.32-0.91, p=0.02) were the risk factors associated with Toxocara infection. However, after adjustment by multivariate logistic regression analysis, contact with dogs (p=0.02) remained the only statistically significant risk factor. Preschool children were exposed early in life to T. canis infection as 18.18% of children less than one year old were infected. This is the first serological investigation of T. canis infection among preschool children in Nigeria. The results show high levels of exposure to T. canis infection among the studied group and contact with the dog plays the predominant risk factor. It indicates high transmission with the consequent of visceral or ocular larva migrans and neurologic disorder in these children. The results also provide baseline data for effective prevention strategies of toxocariasis in Southwest Nigeria and the study recommends prompt interventional measures, particularly health education on personal hygiene.
Collapse
|
23
|
Poulle ML, Bastien M, Richard Y, Josse-Dupuis É, Aubert D, Villena I, Knapp J. Detection of Echinococcus multilocularis and other foodborne parasites in fox, cat and dog faeces collected in kitchen gardens in a highly endemic area for alveolar echinococcosis. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017; 24:29. [PMID: 28748783 PMCID: PMC5530766 DOI: 10.1051/parasite/2017031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2017] [Accepted: 07/12/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Echinococcus multilocularis, Toxoplasma gondii and Toxocara spp. are foodborne parasites whose eggs or oocysts are spread in the environment via canid or felid faeces. They can cause infections in humans following the raw consumption of contaminated fruit or vegetables. In this study, their occurrence was investigated by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) in 254 carnivore faeces deposited in 94 kitchen gardens of northeastern France that were sampled between two and six times from October 2011 to April 2013. Less than 25% of the sampled kitchen gardens contained more than 75% of the collected faeces. Of the 219 faeces that could be attributed to an emitter, cat accounted for 58%, fox for 32% and dog for 10%. Echinococcus multilocularis was detected in 35%, 11% and 7% of fox, dog and cat faeces, respectively, and Toxocara spp. in 33%, 12% and 5.5% of cat, fox and dog faeces, respectively. Toxoplasma gondii was detected in 2/125 cat faeces and 2/21 dog faeces. The 34 faeces that tested positive for E. multilocularis were found in only 19 out of the 94 sampled kitchen gardens, and the 40 faeces that tested positive for Toxocara spp. were found in 28 of them. Consequently, some kitchen gardens appeared particularly at risk of human exposure to foodborne parasites, including E. multilocularis responsible for alveolar echinococcosis (AE), which is a serious zoonosis. In endemic areas, kitchen garden owners should be informed about the zoonotic risk linked to carnivore faeces deposits and encouraged to set up preventive measures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Lazarine Poulle
- University of Reims Champagne-Ardenne, SFR Cap Santé, EA 3800 PROTAL, 51092 Reims cedex, France - University of Reims Champagne-Ardenne, CERFE, 08240 Boult-aux-Bois, France
| | - Matthieu Bastien
- University of Reims Champagne-Ardenne, SFR Cap Santé, EA 3800 PROTAL, 51092 Reims cedex, France - University of Reims Champagne-Ardenne, CERFE, 08240 Boult-aux-Bois, France - French Institute for Fighting Zoonoses (ELIZ), Domaine de Pixéricourt, 54220 Malzéville, France
| | - Yolan Richard
- University of Reims Champagne-Ardenne, CERFE, 08240 Boult-aux-Bois, France
| | - Émilie Josse-Dupuis
- University of Reims Champagne-Ardenne, SFR Cap Santé, EA 3800 PROTAL, 51092 Reims cedex, France - University Hospital of Reims, Department of Parasitology-Mycology, 51092 Reims cedex, France
| | - Dominique Aubert
- University of Reims Champagne-Ardenne, SFR Cap Santé, EA 3800 PROTAL, 51092 Reims cedex, France - University Hospital of Reims, Department of Parasitology-Mycology, 51092 Reims cedex, France
| | - Isabelle Villena
- University of Reims Champagne-Ardenne, SFR Cap Santé, EA 3800 PROTAL, 51092 Reims cedex, France - University Hospital of Reims, Department of Parasitology-Mycology, 51092 Reims cedex, France
| | - Jenny Knapp
- University of Bourgogne Franche-Comté, Laboratory of Chrono-environment, UMR UFC/CNRS 6249 affi. INRA, 25030 Besançon, France - University Hospital of Besançon, Department of Parasitology-Mycology, 25030 Besançon, France
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Sperotto RL, Kremer FS, Aires Berne ME, Costa de Avila LF, da Silva Pinto L, Monteiro KM, Caumo KS, Ferreira HB, Berne N, Borsuk S. Proteomic analysis of Toxocara canis excretory and secretory (TES) proteins. Mol Biochem Parasitol 2016; 211:39-47. [PMID: 27638150 DOI: 10.1016/j.molbiopara.2016.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2016] [Revised: 09/09/2016] [Accepted: 09/12/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Toxocariasis is a neglected disease, and its main etiological agent is the nematode Toxocara canis. Serological diagnosis is performed by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay using T. canis excretory and secretory (TES) antigens produced by in vitro cultivation of larvae. Identification of TES proteins can be useful for the development of new diagnostic strategies since few TES components have been described so far. Herein, we report the results obtained by proteomic analysis of TES proteins using a liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) approach. TES fractions were separated by one-dimensional SDS-PAGE and analyzed by LC-MS/MS. The MS/MS spectra were compared with a database of protein sequences deduced from the genome sequence of T. canis, and a total of 19 proteins were identified. Classification according to the signal peptide prediction using the SignalP server showed that seven of the identified proteins were extracellular, 10 had cytoplasmic or nuclear localization, while the subcellular localization of two proteins was unknown. Analysis of molecular functions by BLAST2GO showed that the majority of the gene ontology (GO) terms associated with the proteins present in the TES sample were associated with binding functions, including but not limited to protein binding (GO:0005515), inorganic ion binding (GO:0043167), and organic cyclic compound binding (GO:0097159). This study provides additional information about the exoproteome of T. canis, which can lead to the development of new strategies for diagnostics or vaccination.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rita Leal Sperotto
- Departamento de Microbiologia e Parasitologia, Universidade Federal de Pelotas (UFPel), Pelotas, Brazil
| | - Frederico Schmitt Kremer
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia Infecto-Parasitária, Centro de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico- UFPel, Pelotas, Brazil
| | | | - Luciana F Costa de Avila
- Departamento de Microbiologia e Parasitologia, Universidade Federal de Pelotas (UFPel), Pelotas, Brazil
| | - Luciano da Silva Pinto
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia Infecto-Parasitária, Centro de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico- UFPel, Pelotas, Brazil
| | - Karina Mariante Monteiro
- Laboratório de Genômica Estrutural e Funcional, Centro de Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil; Departamento de Biologia Molecular e Biotecnologia, Instituto de Biociências, UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Karin Silva Caumo
- Laboratório de Genômica Estrutural e Funcional, Centro de Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil; Departamento de Biologia Molecular e Biotecnologia, Instituto de Biociências, UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Henrique Bunselmeyer Ferreira
- Laboratório de Genômica Estrutural e Funcional, Centro de Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil; Departamento de Biologia Molecular e Biotecnologia, Instituto de Biociências, UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Natália Berne
- Departamento de Microbiologia e Parasitologia, Universidade Federal de Pelotas (UFPel), Pelotas, Brazil
| | - Sibele Borsuk
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia Infecto-Parasitária, Centro de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico- UFPel, Pelotas, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Lötsch F, Obermüller M, Mischlinger J, Mombo-Ngoma G, Groger M, Adegnika AA, Agnandji ST, Schneider R, Auer H, Ramharter M. Seroprevalence of Toxocara spp. in a rural population in Central African Gabon. Parasitol Int 2016; 65:632-634. [PMID: 27594568 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2016.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2016] [Revised: 08/24/2016] [Accepted: 09/01/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Toxocara spp. are zoonotic parasites with global distribution infecting humans by incidental ingestions of eggs shed in feces of dogs or cats. High seroprevalences have been reported from several regions of Africa, however data from the Central African region remain limited. Although several clinical entities caused by larvae of Toxocara spp. have been described, the public heath impact of this infection has so far often been neglected. This study was conducted to estimate the prevalence in a rural central African population. The population based study was performed in volunteers in a rural region of Gabon. A two-step testing approach was applied using an ELISA as screening test and a Western Blot (immunoblot) as confirmatory assay. Basic demographic data and risk factors were collected and compared between seropositive and negative participants. In total, 199 out of 332 serum samples were tested positive for Toxocara spp. antibodies (59.9%). After standardization for age to the overall Gabonese population seroprevalence was 53.6% (95% CI 48.2-59.0%). There was a trend towards higher seroprevalence in participants with agricultural activity. Seroprevalence of antibodies against Toxocara spp. is high in this rural population in Gabon. These results are comparable with previous reports from other sub-regions of Africa and add to our understanding of the epidemiology of toxocariasis in Africa. Given the high prevalence of toxocariasis in tropical regions, it may be speculated that clinically relevant presentations (e.g. visceral or ocular larva migrans syndrome) may occur in considerable numbers. A formal assessment of the burden of disease and the public health impact of human toxocariasis is therefore warranted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Felix Lötsch
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Department of Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna, Austria; Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné, Lambaréné, Gabon
| | - Markus Obermüller
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Department of Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
| | - Johannes Mischlinger
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Department of Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna, Austria; Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné, Lambaréné, Gabon
| | | | - Mirjam Groger
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Department of Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna, Austria; Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné, Lambaréné, Gabon
| | - Akim Ayola Adegnika
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné, Lambaréné, Gabon; Institut für Tropenmedizin, Universität Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Selidji Todagbe Agnandji
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné, Lambaréné, Gabon; Institut für Tropenmedizin, Universität Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Renate Schneider
- Department for Medical Parasitology, Institute of Specific Prophylaxis and Tropical Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
| | - Herbert Auer
- Department for Medical Parasitology, Institute of Specific Prophylaxis and Tropical Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
| | - Michael Ramharter
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Department of Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna, Austria; Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné, Lambaréné, Gabon; Institut für Tropenmedizin, Universität Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Xu C, Ma X, Zhang H, Zhang XX, Zhao JP, Ba HX, Rui-Du, Xing XM, Wang QK, Zhao Q. Prevalence, risk factors and molecular characterization of Enterocytozoon bieneusi in raccoon dogs (Nyctereutes procyonoides) in five provinces of Northern China. Acta Trop 2016; 161:68-72. [PMID: 27260667 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2016.05.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2016] [Revised: 05/24/2016] [Accepted: 05/30/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
The disease microsporidiosis is found worldwide and is mainly caused by Enterocytozoon bieneusi. E. bieneusi can infect a wide range of hosts; however, information regarding the prevalence and genotyping of E. bieneusi infection in raccoon dogs (Nyctereutes procyonoides) is limited. Therefore, in 2015, we examined 305 faecel samples from 80 farmed raccoon dogs in Jilin Province, from 54 in Hebei Province, from 72 in Liaoning Province, from 29 in Shandong Province, and from 40 in Heilongjiang Province. The overall prevalence of E. bieneusi infection in farmed raccoon dogs was 22.30%. Logistic regression analysis suggests that age, gender and region of raccoon dogs were highly related to the prevalence of E. bieneusi infection. Moreover, six E. bieneusi internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region sequences, including four known genotypes, namely D, CHN-DC1, NCF2, and CHN-F1, and two novel genotypes (NCR1 and NCR2), were identified in the present study. The present study firstly indicated the existence of E. bieneusi genotypes NCF2, NCR1, NCR2and CHN-F1 in infected raccoon dogs in Northern China. Integrated control strategies should be implemented to limit E. bieneusi infection in farmed raccoon dogs, and to prevent transmission of this disease to other animals and humans.
Collapse
|
27
|
Seroprevalence and associated risk factors of Toxocara infection in Korean, Manchu, Mongol, and Han ethnic groups in northern China. Epidemiol Infect 2016; 144:3101-3107. [PMID: 27457773 DOI: 10.1017/s0950268816001631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxocariasis is a very prevalent zoonotic disease worldwide. Recently, investigators have focused more on Toxocara spp. seroprevalence in humans. Information regarding Toxocara seroprevalence in people from different ethnic backgrounds in China is limited. For this study, blood samples were collected from a total of 802 Han, 520 Korean, 303 Manchu, and 217 Mongol subjects from Jilin and Shandong provinces. The overall Toxocara seroprevalence was 16·07% (14·21% Han, 20·58% Korean, 11·22% Manchu, 18·89% Mongol). Living in suburban or rural areas, having dogs at home, exposure to soil, and consumption of raw/undercooked meat were risk factors for Toxocara infection. Exposure to soil was identified as the major risk factor for Toxocara seropositivity in all of the tested ethnicities. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report concerning Toxocara infection in Manchus and Mongols in China. The present study provided baseline data for effective prevention strategies of toxocariasis in northeast China and recommends improvements in personal hygiene standards to achieve this goal.
Collapse
|
28
|
Abstract
SUMMARYToxocara species infect a wide range of companion, domestic and wild animals as definitive and paratenic hosts, via multiple routes of transmission, producing long-lived tissue-inhabiting larvae and resistant eggs that can survive in the external environment. Therefore Toxocara and the disease it causes in humans, toxocariasis, represents an ideal aetiological agent for the development of the one health approach. However, despite increasing awareness of the public health significance of toxocariasis, gaps in our understanding of certain key aspects of the parasite's biology and epidemiology remain. These gaps hinder our ability to integrate research effort within the veterinary, medical and environmental disciplines. This review will highlight key deficits in our understanding of nine dimensions of Toxocara epidemiology and discuss a potential scenario to develop a more integrated, one health approach to improve our understanding of the prevention and control of this complex and cryptic zoonosis.
Collapse
|