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Raw C, Traub RJ, Wiethoelter A. A comparative field efficacy trial of three treatment programs against endo- and ectoparasites in naturally infected dogs. Front Vet Sci 2024; 11:1460452. [PMID: 39301281 PMCID: PMC11410704 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2024.1460452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2024] [Accepted: 08/19/2024] [Indexed: 09/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Tropical climates in remote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in northern Australia are conducive to the transmission of canine helminths such as hookworms, as well as ectoparasites such as fleas and ticks. In addition to their veterinary importance, these parasites may present a zoonotic risk either directly, or as potential vectors for bacterial pathogens. These factors necessitate efficacious and effective antiparasitic treatment programs for community dogs. Methods A cluster-randomised trial was performed on three islands in the Torres Strait to examine the short-term efficacy and medium-term effectiveness of three treatment programs. Treatments administered included oral oxibendazole/praziquantel (Paragard®) and oral afoxolaner (Nexgard®); topical moxidectin/imidacloprid (Advocate®) and imidacloprid/flumethrin collars (Seresto®); and off-label oral ivermectin (Bomectin®). Canine faecal samples were collected and examined for endoparasites by faecal flotation and real-time PCR at baseline, 7-11 days after treatment and 6 months later. Results The proportion of dogs positive for Ancylostoma caninum at baseline and negative at day 7-11 was 9% (95% CI 4.4-17.4) for dogs treated with oxibendazole, 56.4% (95% CI 41-70.7) for moxidectin, and 89.7% (95% CI 73.6-96.4) for ivermectin. Faecal flotation results showed a greater than 90% egg reduction in 29.2% (95% CI 19.9-40.5) of dogs treated with oxibendazole, 79.4% (95% CI 63.2-89.7) for moxidectin, and 95% (95% CI 76.4-99.1) for off-label ivermectin. Elimination of ectoparasite infestation was observed at day 7-11 in 69.9% (95% CI 56.7-80.1) of dogs treated with afoxolaner, 80% (95% CI 60.9-91.1) with imidacloprid/flumethrin collars, and 0% (95% CI 0-11.7) for off-label ivermectin. Mixed effects modelling revealed only treatment group to be significantly associated with outcome measures. Discussion Based on these study results, the poor efficacy of oxibendazole against A. caninum renders it inept for treatment, while ivermectin and moxidectin were suitable. Ivermectin was unsuitable for ectoparasite treatment due to its poor efficacy, while afoxolaner and imidacloprid/flumethrin collars appear suitable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cameron Raw
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Rebecca J Traub
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Anke Wiethoelter
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
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Illiano S, Ciuca L, Bosco A, Rinaldi L, Maurelli MP. Comparison of different molecular protocols for the detection of Uncinaria stenocephala infection in dogs. Vet Parasitol 2024; 330:110249. [PMID: 38981318 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2024.110249] [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: 02/09/2024] [Revised: 07/01/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Abstract
The present study aims to assess the performance of different molecular targets using various matrices of samples for the detection of Uncinaria stenocephala (US) in hookworm infected dogs. To this end, the DNA extraction was performed on the following matrices of samples: (i) larvae of US obtained from experimentally infected dogs with US with different larvae counts per microliter (µl); (ii) pure US eggs suspension in distilled water with different egg counts per µl; (iii) spiked dog fecal samples with different US eggs per gram (EPG) of feces; (iv) feces from dogs naturally infected with hookworm eggs; (v) fecal suspension with hookworm eggs recovered from the FLOTAC apparatus. All the samples were tested with four different PCR protocols targeting specific regions for the detection of both hookworms US and AC as follows: Protocol A (ITS1, 5.8 S, ITS2) and Protocol B (18 S) for the detection of both species, Protocol C (ITS1) for the detection of AC and Protocol D (ITS1) for the detection of US. The best results were obtained with DNA extracted from US larvae matrix obtained from experimentally infected dogs, showing a detection limit of 3.5 larvae/ml for the protocols A, B and D. A moderate correlation was found between the FLOTAC technique and PCR protocols B and D with respect to fecal samples from dogs naturally infected with hookworms. Indeed, PCR protocols B (18 S) and D (ITS1) gave the best results for feces and fecal suspension from naturally infected dogs. However, all the PCR protocols used showed lower sensitivity than FLOTAC technique. Perhaps, isolating US eggs in advance could help to obtain better quality and quantity of DNA, avoiding some notable factors such as inhibitors present in faecal samples. However, a further study is needed to evaluate and standardise a protocol for the recovery of parasitic elements, that could be applied prior to DNA extraction. Therefore, this could lead to a better amplification of US eggs DNA. In conclusion, our results showed that the type of sample (sample-matrix) used for the DNA extraction samples is crucial, as this affects the diagnostic sensitivity of the technique.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Illiano
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Via Delpino 1, Naples 80137, Italy.
| | - Lavinia Ciuca
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Via Delpino 1, Naples 80137, Italy.
| | - Antonio Bosco
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Via Delpino 1, Naples 80137, Italy.
| | - Laura Rinaldi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Via Delpino 1, Naples 80137, Italy.
| | - Maria Paola Maurelli
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Via Delpino 1, Naples 80137, Italy.
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Puchner KP, Bottazzi ME, Periago V, Grobusch M, Maizels R, McCarthy J, Lee B, Gaspari E, Diemert D, Hotez P. Vaccine value profile for Hookworm. Vaccine 2024; 42:S25-S41. [PMID: 37863671 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2023.05.013] [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: 07/04/2022] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
Hookworm, a parasitic infection, retains a considerable burden of disease, affecting the most underprivileged segments of the general population in endemic countries and remains one of the leading causes of mild to severe anemia in Low and Middle Income Countries (LMICs), particularly in pregnancy and children under 5. Despite repeated large scale Preventive Chemotherapy (PC) interventions since more than 3 decades, there is broad consensus among scholars that elimination targets set in the newly launched NTD roadmap will require additional tools and interventions. Development of a vaccine could constitute a promising expansion of the existing arsenal against hookworm. Therefore, we have evaluated the biological and implementation feasibility of the vaccine development as well as the added value of such a novel tool. Based on pipeline landscaping and the current knowledge on key biological aspects of the pathogen and its interactions with the host, we found biological feasibility of development of a hookworm vaccine to be moderate. Also, our analysis on manufacturing and regulatory issues as well as potential uptake yielded moderate implementation feasibility. Modelling studies suggest a that introduction of a vaccine in parallel with ongoing integrated interventions (PC, WASH, shoe campaigns), could substantially reduce burden of disease in a cost - saving mode. Finally a set of actions are recommended that might impact positively the likelihood of timely development and introduction of a hookworm vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maria Elena Bottazzi
- National School of Tropical Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Baylor, TX, USA
| | | | - Martin Grobusch
- Center of Tropical Medicine and Travel Medicine, Department of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location AMC, Amsterdam Infection & Immunity, Amsterdam Public Health, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Rick Maizels
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Parasitology, Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - James McCarthy
- The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Bruce Lee
- Public Health Informatics, Computational, and Operations Research, Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, City University of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | - Erika Gaspari
- European & Developing Countries Clinical Trials Partnership (EDCTP), The Hague, The Netherlands
| | - David Diemert
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Tropical Medicine, George Washington University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Peter Hotez
- National School of Tropical Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Baylor, TX, USA
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Tayebwa DS, Hyeroba D, Dunn CD, Dunay E, Richard JC, Biryomumaisho S, Acai JO, Goldberg TL. Viruses of free-roaming and hunting dogs in Uganda show elevated prevalence, richness and abundance across a gradient of contact with wildlife. J Gen Virol 2024; 105:002011. [PMID: 39045787 PMCID: PMC11316573 DOI: 10.1099/jgv.0.002011] [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: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Domestic dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) live with humans, frequently contact other animals and may serve as intermediary hosts for the transmission of viruses. Free-roaming dogs, which account for over 70% of the world's domestic dog population, may pose a particularly high risk in this regard. We conducted an epidemiological study of dog viromes in three locations in Uganda, representing low, medium and high rates of contact with wildlife, ranging from dogs owned specifically for traditional hunting in a biodiversity and disease 'hotspot' to pets in an affluent suburb. We quantified rates of contact between dogs and wildlife through owner interviews and conducted canine veterinary health assessments. We then applied broad-spectrum viral metagenomics to blood plasma samples, from which we identified 46 viruses, 44 of which were previously undescribed, in three viral families, Sedoreoviridae, Parvoviridae and Anelloviridae. All 46 viruses (100 %) occurred in the high-contact population of dogs compared to 63 % and 39 % in the medium- and low-contact populations, respectively. Viral prevalence ranged from 2.1 % to 92.0 % among viruses and was highest, on average, in the high-contact population (22.3 %), followed by the medium-contact (12.3 %) and low-contact (4.8 %) populations. Viral richness (number of viruses per dog) ranged from 0 to 27 and was markedly higher, on average, in the high-contact population (10.2) than in the medium-contact (5.7) or low-contact (2.3) populations. Viral richness was strongly positively correlated with the number of times per year that a dog was fed wildlife and negatively correlated with the body condition score, body temperature and packed cell volume. Viral abundance (cumulative normalized metagenomic read density) varied 124-fold among dogs and was, on average, 4.1-fold higher and 2.4-fold higher in the high-contact population of dogs than in the low-contact or medium-contact populations, respectively. Viral abundance was also strongly positively correlated with the number of times per year that a dog was fed wildlife, negatively correlated with packed cell volume and positively correlated with white blood cell count. These trends were driven by nine viruses in the family Anelloviridae, genus Thetatorquevirus, and by one novel virus in the family Sedoreoviridae, genus Orbivirus. The genus Orbivirus contains zoonotic viruses and viruses that dogs can acquire through ingestion of infected meat. Overall, our findings show that viral prevalence, richness and abundance increased across a gradient of contact between dogs and wildlife and that the health status of the dog modified viral infection. Other ecological, geographic and social factors may also have contributed to these trends. Our finding of a novel orbivirus in dogs with high wildlife contact supports the idea that free-roaming dogs may serve as intermediary hosts for viruses of medical importance to humans and other animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dickson S. Tayebwa
- Department of Veterinary Pharmacy Clinical and Comparative Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Resources, Makerere University, P.O. Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda
| | - David Hyeroba
- Department of Veterinary Pharmacy Clinical and Comparative Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Resources, Makerere University, P.O. Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Christopher D. Dunn
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1656 Linden Drive, Madison, Wisconsin, 53706, USA
| | - Emily Dunay
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1656 Linden Drive, Madison, Wisconsin, 53706, USA
| | - Jordan C. Richard
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1656 Linden Drive, Madison, Wisconsin, 53706, USA
| | - Savino Biryomumaisho
- Department of Veterinary Pharmacy Clinical and Comparative Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Resources, Makerere University, P.O. Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda
| | - James O. Acai
- Department of Veterinary Pharmacy Clinical and Comparative Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Resources, Makerere University, P.O. Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Tony L. Goldberg
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1656 Linden Drive, Madison, Wisconsin, 53706, USA
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Zendejas-Heredia PA, Robleto-Quesada J, Solano A, Rojas A, Colella V. Zoonotic Ancylostoma ceylanicum Infection in Coyotes from Guanacaste Conservation Area, Costa Rica, 2021. Emerg Infect Dis 2024; 30:1258-1262. [PMID: 38782140 PMCID: PMC11138982 DOI: 10.3201/eid3006.231618] [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] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Ancylostoma ceylanicum is the second most common hookworm infecting humans in the Asia-Pacific region. Recent reports suggest presence of the parasite in the Americas. We report A. ceylanicum infections in coyotes from the Guanacaste Conservation Area, Costa Rica. Our findings call for active surveillance in humans and animals.
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Arcenillas-Hernández I, Ruiz de Ybáñez MR, Tizzani P, Pérez-Cutillas P, Martínez-Carrasco C. Influence of environmental factors on the occurrence of gastrointestinal and cardiopulmonary nematodes in the red fox in the semi-arid Mediterranean areas of the Iberian Peninsula. Res Vet Sci 2024; 171:105199. [PMID: 38458043 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2024.105199] [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: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024]
Abstract
Human-induced ecosystem fragmentation is one of the drivers causing wildlife migration from their natural habitats to urban areas, among other reasons. The red fox (Vulpes vulpes) is the most abundant wild canid in the semi-arid Mediterranean areas of the Iberian Peninsula. Water scarcity may result in areas shared by synanthropic fox populations and domestic animals becoming hotspots for parasite transmission. This study describes the gastrointestinal and cardiopulmonary nematode species affecting fox populations in these semi-arid areas and the influence of environmental variables on parasite abundance. A total of 167 foxes collected from 2015 to 2021 in the Region of Murcia (SE Spain) were analysed. Parasite abundance and spatial distribution were evaluated using environmental variables and host characteristics with a Generalised Linear Model and the Moran index. Eleven species (seven from the gastrointestinal tract and four from the cardiopulmonary tract) were described. The influence of biotic and abiotic variables was studied for Angiostrongylus vasorum, Crenosoma vulpis, Uncinaria stenocephala, Toxocara canis and Toxascaris leonina. Temperature, humidity and areas of forest or agricultural land influenced the abundance of these parasites, providing optimal conditions for free-living stages of the direct life cycle nematodes and intermediate hosts. Absolute abundance distribution maps showed defined locations for C. vulpis, T. canis and T. leonina. The results for U. stenocephala, T. canis and T. leonina were particularly important as their higher abundance levels were found close to anthropized areas, which need to be carefully evaluated to prevent transmission of these nematodes between domestic and wild canids and human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Arcenillas-Hernández
- Dpto. de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Murcia, Campus Espinardo, 30100 Murcia, Spain
| | - M R Ruiz de Ybáñez
- Dpto. de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Murcia, Campus Espinardo, 30100 Murcia, Spain.
| | - P Tizzani
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Largo Paolo Braccini, 2, 10095 Grugliasco, Torino, Italy
| | - P Pérez-Cutillas
- Departamento de Geografía, Facultad de Letras, Universidad de Murcia, Campus de La Merced, 30001 Murcia, Spain
| | - C Martínez-Carrasco
- Dpto. de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Murcia, Campus Espinardo, 30100 Murcia, Spain
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Ng'etich AI, Amoah ID, Bux F, Kumari S. Anthelmintic resistance in soil-transmitted helminths: One-Health considerations. Parasitol Res 2023; 123:62. [PMID: 38114766 PMCID: PMC10730643 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-023-08088-8] [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: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
The One-Health approach recognizes the intricate connection between human, animal, and environmental health, and that cooperative effort from various professionals provides comprehensive awareness and potential solutions for issues relating to the health of people, animals, and the environment. This approach has increasingly gained appeal as the standard strategy for tackling emerging infectious diseases, most of which are zoonoses. Treatment with anthelmintics (AHs) without a doubt minimizes the severe consequences of soil-transmitted helminths (STHs); however, evidence of anthelmintic resistance (AR) development to different helminths of practically every animal species and the distinct groups of AHs is overwhelming globally. In this regard, the correlation between the application of anthelmintic drugs in both human and animal populations and the consequent development of anthelmintic resistance in STHs within the context of a One-Health framework is explored. This review provides an overview of the major human and animal STHs, treatment of the STHs, AR development and drug-related factors contributing towards AR, One-Health and STHs, and an outline of some One-Health strategies that may be used in combating AR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annette Imali Ng'etich
- Institute for Water and Wastewater Technology, Durban University of Technology (DUT), Durban, South Africa
| | - Isaac Dennis Amoah
- Institute for Water and Wastewater Technology, Durban University of Technology (DUT), Durban, South Africa
- Department of Environmental Science, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Faizal Bux
- Institute for Water and Wastewater Technology, Durban University of Technology (DUT), Durban, South Africa
| | - Sheena Kumari
- Institute for Water and Wastewater Technology, Durban University of Technology (DUT), Durban, South Africa.
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Sałamatin R, Knysz B, Paszta W, Lelonek E, Matos O, Wesołowska M. Cutaneous larva migrans: A One Health Perspective on Familial Infection Among Tourists Returning from Southeast Asia. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol 2023; 16:3375-3382. [PMID: 38021420 PMCID: PMC10676675 DOI: 10.2147/ccid.s425885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Cutaneous larva migrans (CLM) is a dermatosis caused by accidental infestation with animal hookworms and is widely distributed in tropical and subtropical regions. Humans become infected when their skin comes into contact with soil contaminated with dog faeces. The filariform larvae penetrate and burrow into human skin, causing a condition known as "creeping eruption". We describe a case, well-documented by photos, of CLM infection in a family of three who returned from Thailand.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rusłan Sałamatin
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine. Collegium Medicum, Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński University in Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
- Department of General Biology and Parasitology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Brygida Knysz
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Liver Diseases and Acquired Immune Deficiencies, Wrocław Medical University, Wrocław, Poland
| | | | - Edyta Lelonek
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, Wrocław Medical University, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Olga Matos
- Medical Parasitology Unit, Group of Opportunistic Protozoa/HIV and Other Protozoa, Global Health and Tropical Medicine, Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
- Environmental Health Institute, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Maria Wesołowska
- Department of Biology and Medical Parasitology, Wrocław Medical University, Wrocław, Poland
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Mateo M, Montoya A, Bailo B, Köster PC, Dashti A, Hernández‐Castro C, Saugar JM, Matas P, Xiao L, Carmena D. Prevalence and public health relevance of enteric parasites in domestic dogs and cats in the region of Madrid (Spain) with an emphasis on Giardia duodenalis and Cryptosporidium sp. Vet Med Sci 2023; 9:2542-2558. [PMID: 37725371 PMCID: PMC10650246 DOI: 10.1002/vms3.1270] [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: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pet dogs and cats exert an unquestionable beneficial effect in the well-being of their owners, but can also act as a source of zoonotic infections if improperly cared. OBJECTIVES We investigated the occurrence, risk factors, genetic variability and zoonotic potential of intestinal parasites in dogs and cats attended in a clinical veterinary setting in Spain. METHODS Canine (n = 252) and feline (n = 35) faecal samples were collected during 2017-2019 and analysed by coproparasitological methods. A rapid lateral immunochromatographic test (ICT) was used for detecting Giardia duodenalis and Cryptosporidium sp. Samples positive at microscopy examination and/or ICT were reassessed by molecular methods. RESULTS Overall, 48.8% (123/252) of dogs and 48.6% (17/35) of cats were infected by enteric parasites. In dogs, G. duodenalis was the most prevalent species (40.9%), followed by Cystoisospora sp. (7.1%), and Toxocara canis (5.2%). In cats, Joyeuxiella sp. and Toxocara cati were the dominant species (20.0% each), followed by G. duodenalis (14.3%), D. caninum (5.7%) and Cystoisospora felis and Toxascaris leonina (2.9% each). Pups and kittens were more likely to harbour intestinal parasites and develop clinical signs. Sequence analyses of dog isolates revealed the presence of assemblages A (n = 1), C (n = 4), D (n = 4) and C+D (n = 1) within G. duodenalis; C. parvum (n = 1) and C. canis (n = 4) within Cryptosporidium and PtEb IX (n = 1) in Enterocytozoon bieneusi. A novel C. canis subtype family, named XXi, is reported. CONCLUSIONS Our results highlight that (i) well-cared dogs carry zoonotic enteric protozoan parasites of public health relevance, (ii) proper hygiene practices and routine veterinary treatment are essential to prevent zoonotic infections, (iii) vulnerable populations should avoid contact with pups/kittens with diarrhoea and (iv) infected dogs might be major contributors to the environmental contamination with soil-transmitted helminths (STHs) eggs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Mateo
- Department of Microbiology and ParasitologyFaculty of PharmacyComplutense University of MadridMadridSpain
| | - Ana Montoya
- Department of Animal HealthFaculty of VeterinaryComplutense University of MadridMadridSpain
| | - Begoña Bailo
- Parasitology Reference and Research LaboratorySpanish National Centre for MicrobiologyHealth Institute Carlos IIIMajadahondaMadridSpain
| | - Pamela C. Köster
- Parasitology Reference and Research LaboratorySpanish National Centre for MicrobiologyHealth Institute Carlos IIIMajadahondaMadridSpain
| | - Alejandro Dashti
- Parasitology Reference and Research LaboratorySpanish National Centre for MicrobiologyHealth Institute Carlos IIIMajadahondaMadridSpain
| | - Carolina Hernández‐Castro
- Parasitology Reference and Research LaboratorySpanish National Centre for MicrobiologyHealth Institute Carlos IIIMajadahondaMadridSpain
- Parasitology Group, Faculty of Medicine, Academic Corporation for the Study of Tropical PathologiesUniversity of AntioquiaMedellínColombia
| | - José M. Saugar
- Parasitology Reference and Research LaboratorySpanish National Centre for MicrobiologyHealth Institute Carlos IIIMajadahondaMadridSpain
- Centre for Biomedical Research Network (CIBER) in Infectious DiseasesHealth Institute Carlos IIIMadridSpain
| | - Pablo Matas
- Faculty of Veterinary, Alfonso X El Sabio University (UAX)Villanueva de la CañadaMadridSpain
| | - Lihua Xiao
- College of Veterinary MedicineSouth China Agricultural UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - David Carmena
- Parasitology Reference and Research LaboratorySpanish National Centre for MicrobiologyHealth Institute Carlos IIIMajadahondaMadridSpain
- Centre for Biomedical Research Network (CIBER) in Infectious DiseasesHealth Institute Carlos IIIMadridSpain
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Illiano S, Ciuca L, Maurelli MP, Pepe P, Caruso V, Bosco A, Pennacchio S, Amato R, Pompameo M, Rinaldi L. Epidemiological and molecular updates on hookworm species in dogs from southern Italy. BMC Vet Res 2023; 19:204. [PMID: 37833701 PMCID: PMC10571300 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-023-03765-3] [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: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The zoonotic hookworms Ancylostoma caninum and Uncinaria stenocephala are widespread soil-transmitted helminths in dogs in Europe. Given the veterinary and public health importance of hookworms in dogs and the recent changes in the molecular epidemiology of some species, there is a need to continuously monitor the epidemiological and molecular prevalence of these parasites also at the "local" level. The present study aimed to update the epidemiological scenario of hookworm infections in both owned and stray dogs in southern Italy and to discriminate between different hookworm species (A. caninum and U. stenocephala) through molecular analyses. For this purpose, a retrospective analysis was performed over 10 years (2011-2021), including a total of 7008 owned dogs and 5642 stray dogs referred to our laboratory for copromicroscopic examinations. Moreover, 72 faecal samples, from dogs naturally infected by hookworms, were used to discriminate between A. caninum and U. stenocephala using two PCR protocols. Prior to molecular analyses, a subsample of 40/72 positive faecal samples was used for morphometric investigations on hookworm eggs. RESULTS The results of the ten-year retrospective analysis (2011-2021) showed an overall prevalence of hookworm infection of 9.16%, specifically 5.1% in owned dogs and 14.2% in stray dogs. Logistic regression showed a significant association between positivity to hookworms and the variable "puppies" both in stray (13.84%; OR = 2.4) and owned (7.07%; OR = 2.2) dogs. The results of molecular analyses showed that positivity was confirmed only in 21/72 samples, specifically, 6 samples using protocol A and 19 with protocol B. Sequencing revealed 15 samples positive to U. stenocephala and 6 to A. caninum. CONCLUSIONS The findings of this study showed a high prevalence of hookworm infections in dogs in southern Italy, updating the epidemiological scenario of the last decade. Moreover, the results of the study revealed the first identification of hookworm species in dogs in Italy by molecular studies, highlighting that U. stenocephala is more prevalent than A. caninum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Illiano
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Via Delpino, 1, 80137, Naples, Italy
| | - Lavinia Ciuca
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Via Delpino, 1, 80137, Naples, Italy.
| | - Maria Paola Maurelli
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Via Delpino, 1, 80137, Naples, Italy
| | - Paola Pepe
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Via Delpino, 1, 80137, Naples, Italy
| | - Valeria Caruso
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Via Delpino, 1, 80137, Naples, Italy
| | - Antonio Bosco
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Via Delpino, 1, 80137, Naples, Italy
| | - Saverio Pennacchio
- ASL Naples 1 Centro, Veterinary Hospital, Via Marco Rocco Di Torrepadula, 13, 80145, Naples, Italy
| | - Ruggero Amato
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Via Delpino, 1, 80137, Naples, Italy
| | - Marina Pompameo
- ASL Naples 1 Centro, Veterinary Hospital, Via Marco Rocco Di Torrepadula, 13, 80145, Naples, Italy
| | - Laura Rinaldi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Via Delpino, 1, 80137, Naples, Italy
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11
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Stocker T, Scott I, Šlapeta J. Unambiguous identification of Ancylostoma caninum and Uncinaria stenocephala in Australian and New Zealand dogs from faecal samples. Aust Vet J 2023; 101:373-376. [PMID: 37537874 DOI: 10.1111/avj.13272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
Hookworms (Ancylostomatidae) are well-known parasites in dogs due to their health impacts and zoonotic potential. While faecal analysis is the traditional method for detection, improvements in husbandry and deworming have decreased their prevalence in urban owned dogs. Drug resistance in Ancylostoma caninum is becoming a discussion point in small animal practices across the region. This study aimed to identify hookworm species present in Australian and New Zealand dogs using molecular techniques. The ITS-2 and isotype-1 β-tubulin assays were used to identify and quantify hookworm species. Results showed absence of coinfection in Australian samples from Greater Sydney region belonging either to A. caninum or Uncinaria stenocephala, while New Zealand samples were a mixture of A. caninum and U. stenocephala. The amplified isotype-1 β-tubulin sequences exhibited susceptibility to benzimidazole drugs. Rare mutations were identified in A. caninum and U. stenocephala sequences, representing a small percentage of reads. This study highlights the importance of molecular techniques in accurately identifying and quantifying hookworm species in dog populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Stocker
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, 2006, Australia
| | - I Scott
- School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North, 4410, New Zealand
| | - J Šlapeta
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, 2006, Australia
- The University of Sydney Institute for Infectious Diseases, Sydney, New South Wales, 2006, Australia
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12
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Owada K, Abdullah S, Clark N, Nguyen T, Soares Magalhães RJ. Associations between canine hookworm infection and dog owners' awareness, perception, and behaviour: A cross-sectional study in Brisbane, Queensland, 2019-2020. Zoonoses Public Health 2023; 70:498-510. [PMID: 37248661 DOI: 10.1111/zph.13059] [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: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Canine hookworms are found globally, and infections have been recorded in domestic dogs visiting dog parks in Queensland, Australia. Some canine hookworms also present a risk of zoonotic transmission to humans. Potential transmission of hookworms can occur in the household and at public places because of lack of owner awareness and poor coverage of canine deworming. Between April 2019 and March 2020, faecal samples from owned dogs were collected from 39 dog parks in metropolitan Brisbane, Queensland, and tested for the presence of hookworm eggs using faecal floatation technique. Dog owners who provided samples were requested to complete a survey on their awareness, perceptions and behaviour regarding the risks and consequences of canine parasitic infection. Associations between dog owner demographics and responses to the survey were measured using Goodman and Kruskal's gamma. Statistical associations between canine hookworm infection in dogs and their owner's responses were quantified using a two-sample Wilcoxon rank-sum test. A total of five canine faecal samples from 175 respondents were found positive for hookworm eggs, corresponding to a sample- and park-level prevalence of 2.86% and 12.82%, respectively. Female dog owners were found to be more aware of the importance of regular deworming of their dogs (|γ| = 0.405). Our results indicate that hookworm infection was associated with a lower awareness of the importance of deworming (p = 0.007), less diligence in administration of deworming (p = 0.004), lower awareness of the risk of acquiring parasites from raw meat (p = 0.010), less likelihood of cooking meat before feeding it to their dogs (p = 0.028), and less likelihood to properly dispose their dog's faeces (p = 0.027). This study not only indicates a need for improving owner education towards the importance of deworming but also a need for changing owner's behaviours to reduce potential environmental contamination with infective hookworms. The latter in particular indicates a broader public health risk of disease transmission in public places due to improper disposal of dog faeces, especially in areas with higher canine hookworm infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kei Owada
- Queensland Alliance for One Health Sciences, School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland, Gatton, Queensland, Australia
| | - Swaid Abdullah
- School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland, Gatton, Queensland, Australia
| | - Nicholas Clark
- School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland, Gatton, Queensland, Australia
| | - Tu Nguyen
- School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Herston, Queensland, Australia
| | - Ricardo J Soares Magalhães
- Queensland Alliance for One Health Sciences, School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland, Gatton, Queensland, Australia
- Children's Health and Environment Program, Children's Health Research Centre, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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13
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Macpherson ML, Zendejas-Heredia PA, Sylvester W, Gasser RB, Traub RJ, Colella V, Macpherson CN. Zoonotic helminths of dogs and risk factors associated with polyparasitism in Grenada, West Indies. Parasitology 2023; 150:754-759. [PMID: 37184089 PMCID: PMC10410397 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182023000495] [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: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Canine soil-transmitted helminths (STHs) cause important zoonoses in the tropics, with varying degrees of intensity of infection in humans and dogs. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and associated risk factors for STHs in community dogs residing in Grenada, West Indies. In May 2021, 232 canine fecal samples were examined for zoonotic helminths by microscopy (following flotation), and genomic DNA from a subset of 211 of these samples were subjected to multiplex qPCR for the detection and specific identification of hookworms, Toxocara spp. and Strongyloides. Microscopic examination revealed that 46.5% (108/232, 95% CI 40–52.9), 9% (21/232, 95% CI 5.35–12.7) and 5.2% (12/232, 95% CI 2.3–8) of the samples contained eggs of Ancylostoma spp., Toxocara spp. and Trichuris vulpis, respectively. Multiplex qPCR revealed that, 42.2% (89/211, 95% CI 35.5–48.8) were positive for at least 1 zoonotic parasite. Of these, 40.8% (86/211, 95% CI 34.1–47.3) of samples tested positive for Ancylostoma spp., 36% (76/211, 95% CI 29.5–42.9) were positive for A. caninum, 13.3% (28/211, 95% CI 9–18.6) for A. ceylanicum, 5.7% for T. canis (12/211, 95% CI 2.97–8.81) and 1% (2/211, 95% CI 0–2.26) for Strongyloides spp. (identified as S. stercoralis and S. papillosus by conventional PCR-based Sanger sequencing). Using a multiple logistic regression model, a low body score and free-roaming behaviour were significant predictors of test-positivity for these parasitic nematodes in dogs (P < 0.05). Further studies of zoonotic STHs in humans should help elucidate the public health relevance of these parasites in Grenada.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxine L.A. Macpherson
- Windward Islands Research and Education Foundation, St. George's, Grenada, West Indies
- School of Veterinary Medicine, St. George's University, St. George's, Grenada, West Indies
| | | | - Wayne Sylvester
- Windward Islands Research and Education Foundation, St. George's, Grenada, West Indies
- School of Veterinary Medicine, St. George's University, St. George's, Grenada, West Indies
| | - Robin B. Gasser
- Faculty of Science, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Rebecca J. Traub
- Faculty of Science, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Vito Colella
- Faculty of Science, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Calum N.L. Macpherson
- Windward Islands Research and Education Foundation, St. George's, Grenada, West Indies
- School of Veterinary Medicine, St. George's University, St. George's, Grenada, West Indies
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14
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Ridwan Y, Sudarnika E, Dewi TIT, Budiono NG. Gastrointestinal helminth parasites of pets: Retrospective study at the veterinary teaching hospital, IPB University, Bogor, Indonesia. Vet World 2023; 16:1043-1051. [PMID: 37576768 PMCID: PMC10420713 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2023.1043-1051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim Dogs and cats are popular pets that play integral roles in human societies worldwide. Unfortunately, they can carry potential zoonotic helminths that can be transmitted to humans. However, data on the gastrointestinal helminths affecting dogs and cats in Bogor, Indonesia, are currently lacking. This study aimed to investigate the occurrence of gastrointestinal helminth parasites in pets from this area using a retrospective analysis. Materials and Methods A retrospective study was conducted at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital of IPB University, Bogor. Cat and dog patients from January 2014 to April 2019 were tested for helminth infections and the results as well as their age, sex, and breed data were analyzed using the Chi-square test. Results Among the dogs and cats examined for internal parasites, 61.11% (33/51) of the dogs and 53.80% (92/171) of the cats were infected by helminths. Among the dogs, hookworm (37.04%) and Toxocara spp. (24.07%) were detected, while in the cats, hookworm (11.11%), Toxocara spp. (38.01%), and Dipylidium caninum (4.68%) were detected. The prevalence of hookworm and D. caninum was higher in older pets, while Toxocara spp. infected younger cats and dogs (<1 year) more frequently. The prevalence of Toxocara spp. in the Indonesian local dog breed was higher when than other breeds. Sex did not significantly affect the prevalence of parasites in dogs or cats. Conclusion The discovery of zoonotic helminth parasites in the cat and dog pets from Bogor raises concerns for the inhabitants. Initiatives will be required to inform pet owners about prevention strategies for these parasitic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusuf Ridwan
- Division of Parasitology and Medical Entomology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, IPB University, Bogor, Indonesia
| | - Etih Sudarnika
- Division of Veterinary Public Health and Epidemiology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, IPB University, Bogor, Indonesia
| | - Tri Isyani Tungga Dewi
- Veterinary Teaching Hospital, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, IPB University, Bogor, Indonesia
| | - Novericko Ginger Budiono
- Veterinary Teaching Hospital, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, IPB University, Bogor, Indonesia
- Division of Medical Microbiology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, IPB University, Bogor, Indonesia
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15
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Geisshirt HA, Bonde CS, Marcussen C, Mejer H, Williams AR. Development of In Vitro Assays with the Canine Hookworm Uncinaria stenocephala and Assessment of Natural Plant Products for Anti-Parasitic Activity. Pathogens 2023; 12:pathogens12040536. [PMID: 37111422 PMCID: PMC10144190 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12040536] [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: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Enteric helminth infection is an increasing concern in companion animals due to reports of resistance to commonly used anthelmintic drugs. Thus, the assessment of new therapeutic options such as bioactive dietary additives is of high importance. Here, we adapted egg hatch, larval migration, and larval motility assays to screen extracts of several natural ingredients against the canine hookworm Uncinaria stenocephala, a prevalent parasite of dogs in northern Europe. Egg hatch and larval migration assays were established showing that the anthelmintic drugs levamisole and albendazole had strong anti-parasitic activity against U. stenocephala, validating the use of these assays for the assessment of novel anti-parasitic substances. Subsequently, we identified that extracts from the seaweed Saccharina latissima, but not extracts from grape seed or chicory, significantly inhibited both hatching and larval migration. Finally, we showed that α-linolenic acid, a putative anti-parasitic compound from S. latissima, also exhibited anti-parasitic activity. Collectively, our results established a platform for the screening for anthelmintic resistance or novel drug candidates against U. stenocephala and highlighted the potential use of seaweed extracts as a functional food component to help control hookworm infection in dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heidi A Geisshirt
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, DK-1870 Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Charlotte S Bonde
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, DK-1870 Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Caroline Marcussen
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, DK-1870 Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Helena Mejer
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, DK-1870 Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Andrew R Williams
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, DK-1870 Frederiksberg, Denmark
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16
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Abstract
Helminth zoonoses remain a global problem to public health and the economy of many countries. Polymerase chain reaction-based techniques and sequencing have resolved many taxonomic issues and are now essential to understanding the epidemiology of helminth zoonotic infections and the ecology of the causative agents. This is clearly demonstrated from research on Echinococcus (echinococcosis) and Trichinella (trichinosis). Unfortunately, a variety of anthropogenic factors are worsening the problems caused by helminth zoonoses. These include cultural factors, urbanization and climate change. Wildlife plays an increasingly important role in the maintenance of many helminth zoonoses making surveillance and control increasingly difficult. The emergence or re-emergence of helminth zoonoses such as Ancylostoma ceylanicum, Toxocara, Dracunculus and Thelazia exacerbate an already discouraging scenario compounding the control of a group of long neglected diseases.
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17
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Bradbury RS, Sapp SGH, Potters I, Mathison BA, Frean J, Mewara A, Sheorey H, Tamarozzi F, Couturier MR, Chiodini P, Pritt B. Where Have All the Diagnostic Morphological Parasitologists Gone? J Clin Microbiol 2022; 60:e0098622. [PMID: 36314793 PMCID: PMC9667774 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.00986-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Advances in laboratory techniques have revolutionized parasitology diagnostics over the past several decades. Widespread implementation of rapid antigen detection tests has greatly expanded access to tests for global parasitic threats such as malaria, while next-generation amplification and sequencing methods allow for sensitive and specific detection of human and animal parasites in complex specimen matrices. Recently, the introduction of multiplex panels for human gastrointestinal infections has enhanced the identification of common intestinal protozoa in feces along with bacterial and viral pathogens. Despite the benefits provided by novel diagnostics, increased reliance on nonmicroscopy-based methods has contributed to the progressive, widespread loss of morphology expertise for parasite identification. Loss of microscopy and morphology skills has the potential to negatively impact patient care, public health, and epidemiology. Molecular- and antigen-based diagnostics are not available for all parasites and may not be suitable for all specimen types and clinical settings. Furthermore, inadequate morphology experience may lead to missed and inaccurate diagnoses and erroneous descriptions of new human parasitic diseases. This commentary highlights the need to maintain expert microscopy and morphological parasitology diagnostic skills within the medical and scientific community. We proposed that light microscopy remains an important part of training and practice in the diagnosis of parasitic diseases and that efforts should be made to train the next generation of morphological parasitologists before the requisite knowledge, skills, and capacity for this complex and important mode of diagnosis are lost. In summary, the widespread, progressive loss of morphology expertise for parasite identification negatively impacts patient care, public health, and epidemiology.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sarah G. H. Sapp
- Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Idzi Potters
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Blaine A. Mathison
- Institute for Clinical and Experimental Pathology, ARUP Laboratories, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
- Department of Pathology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - John Frean
- Parasitology Reference Laboratory, National Institute for Communicable Diseases, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Abhishek Mewara
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Harsha Sheorey
- Microbiology Department, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
- St. Vincent’s Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Francesca Tamarozzi
- Department of Infectious-Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Negrar, Verona, Italy
| | - Marc Roger Couturier
- Institute for Clinical and Experimental Pathology, ARUP Laboratories, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
- Department of Pathology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Peter Chiodini
- Hospital for Tropical Diseases, London, United Kingdom
- The London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Bobbi Pritt
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
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18
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Maggi RG, Halls V, Krämer F, Lappin M, Pennisi MG, Peregrine AS, Roura X, Schunack B, Scorza V, Tasker S, Baneth G, Bourdeau P, Bowman DD, Breitschwerdt EB, Capelli G, Cardoso L, Dantas-Torres F, Dobler G, Ferrer L, Gradoni L, Irwin P, Jongejan F, Kempf VAJ, Kohn B, Little S, Madder M, Maia C, Marcondes M, Miró G, Naucke T, Oliva G, Otranto D, Penzhorn BL, Pfeffer M, Sainz Á, Shin S, Solano-Gallego L, Straubinger RK, Traub R, Wright I. Vector-borne and other pathogens of potential relevance disseminated by relocated cats. Parasit Vectors 2022; 15:415. [DOI: 10.1186/s13071-022-05553-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractLarge populations of unowned cats constitute an animal welfare, ecological, societal and public health issue worldwide. Their relocation and homing are currently carried out in many parts of the world with the intention of relieving suffering and social problems, while contributing to ethical and humane population control in these cat populations. An understanding of an individual cat’s lifestyle and disease status by veterinary team professionals and those working with cat charities can help to prevent severe cat stress and the spread of feline pathogens, especially vector-borne pathogens, which can be overlooked in cats. In this article, we discuss the issue of relocation and homing of unowned cats from a global perspective. We also review zoonotic and non-zoonotic infectious agents of cats and give a list of practical recommendations for veterinary team professionals dealing with homing cats. Finally, we present a consensus statement consolidated at the 15th Symposium of the Companion Vector-Borne Diseases (CVBD) World Forum in 2020, ultimately to help veterinary team professionals understand the problem and the role they have in helping to prevent and manage vector-borne and other pathogens in relocated cats.
Graphical Abstract
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19
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Raw C, Traub RJ, Zendejas-Heredia PA, Stevenson M, Wiethoelter A. A systematic review and meta-analysis of human and zoonotic dog soil-transmitted helminth infections in Australian Indigenous communities. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2022; 16:e0010895. [PMID: 36279298 PMCID: PMC9632820 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0010895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Revised: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Soil-transmitted helminths (STH) infect 1.5 billion people and countless animals worldwide. In Australian Indigenous communities, STH infections have largely remained endemic despite control efforts, suggesting reservoirs of infection may exist. Dogs fulfil various important cultural, social and occupational roles in Australian Indigenous communities and are populous in these settings. Dogs may also harbour zoonotic STHs capable of producing morbidity and mortality in dogs and humans. This review provides an overview of human and zoonotic STH infections, identifies the Australian Indigenous locations affected and the parasite species and hosts involved. The meta-analysis provides estimates of individual study and pooled true prevalence of STH infections in Australian Indigenous communities and identifies knowledge gaps for further research on zoonotic or anthroponotic potential. A systematic literature search identified 45 eligible studies documenting the presence of Strongyloides stercoralis, Trichuris trichiura, Ancylostoma caninum, Ancylostoma duodenale, Ancylostoma ceylanicum, undifferentiated hookworm, and Ascaris lumbricoides. Of these studies, 26 were also eligible for inclusion in meta-analysis to establish true prevalence in the light of imperfect diagnostic test sensitivity and specificity by Rogan-Gladen and Bayesian methods. These studies revealed pooled true prevalence estimates of 18.9% (95% CI 15.8–22.1) for human and canine S. stercoralis infections and 77.3% (95% CI 63.7–91.0) for canine A. caninum infections indicating continued endemicity, but considerably more heterogenous pooled estimates for canine A. ceylanicum infections, and A. duodenale, undifferentiated hookworm and T. trichiura in humans. This review suggests that the prevalence of STHs in Australian Indigenous communities has likely been underestimated, principally based on imperfect diagnostic tests. Potential misclassification of hookworm species in humans and dogs due to outdated methodology, also obscures this picture. High-quality contemporary studies are required to establish current true prevalence of parasite species in all relevant hosts to guide future policy development and control decisions under a culturally sound One Health framework. Soil-transmitted helminths include hookworms, threadworms, whipworms and roundworms. These worms may infect different hosts including humans and dogs, and some species are zoonotic, meaning that they are able to transmit between animals and humans. In many Australian Indigenous communities, people remain infected with these worms at high rates compared to other parts of the country despite various control strategies. Resource and health literacy inequalities are primary drivers for these differences. However, the potential for dogs to act as reservoirs for zoonotic worm infections in humans must also be considered. For this reason, it’s important to create a clear picture of the level of infection by location and host. Given that tests used to establish prevalence can produce false positive or negative results, we performed a meta-analysis allowing comparison of true prevalence estimates by location and host, regardless of the test used. This review suggests that threadworm and dog hookworm remain endemic in Australian Indigenous communities, though a gap exists to accurately inform the prevalence of the other worms. It also highlights the need for One Health strategies in research, policy and control where humans, all animal hosts and the environment are considered in a culturally relevant way.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cameron Raw
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- * E-mail:
| | - Rebecca J. Traub
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Patsy A. Zendejas-Heredia
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mark Stevenson
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Anke Wiethoelter
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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20
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Sears WJ, Cardenas J, Kubofcik J, Nutman TB, Cooper PJ. Zoonotic Ancylostoma ceylanicum Hookworm Infections, Ecuador. Emerg Infect Dis 2022; 28:1867-1869. [PMID: 35997627 PMCID: PMC9423896 DOI: 10.3201/eid2809.220248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Ancylostoma ceylanicum hookworms are zoonotic parasites that can infect humans. To detect autochthonous transmission, we analyzed human fecal samples collected in 2000. Multiparallel quantitative PCR detected infection in persons who had never traveled outside Ecuador. These data indicate human transmission of A. ceylanicum in the Americas, although endemicity remains unknown.
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21
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Zendejas-Heredia PA, Colella V, Macpherson MLA, Sylvester W, Gasser RB, Macpherson CNL, Traub RJ. Ancylostoma ceylanicum Hookworms in Dogs, Grenada, West Indies. Emerg Infect Dis 2022; 28:1870-1872. [PMID: 35997602 PMCID: PMC9423915 DOI: 10.3201/eid2809.220634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Ancylostoma ceylanicum hookworms are recognized agents of human infection in the Asia-Pacific region. We investigated prevalence of zoonotic hookworm infections in dogs in Grenada in 2021; 40.8% were infected by hookworms, including Ancylostoma ceylanicum. Surveillance of this parasite in dogs and humans is needed in tropical/subtropical countries in the Americas.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vito Colella
- These authors contributed equally to this article
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22
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Massetti L, Wiethoelter A, McDonagh P, Rae L, Marwedel L, Beugnet F, Colella V, Traub RJ. Faecal prevalence, distribution and risk factors associated with canine soil-transmitted helminths contaminating urban parks across Australia. Int J Parasitol 2022; 52:637-646. [PMID: 36007621 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2022.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Revised: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Dog parks provide an ideal urban space where dogs and their owners can exercise, play, and socialize in a safe environment. However, these parks can also increase the risk of exposure to a series of infectious agents including canine soil-transmitted helminths (cSTHs) such as hookworms, roundworms, Strongyloides stercoralis, and Trichuris vulpis, which are endemic to Australia. In this study, we collected 1581 canine faecal samples in 190 urban parks across Australia and subjected these to faecal floatation and multiplex real-time PCRs (qPCR) to detect a range of cSTHs. In total, 44.2% of the parks sampled were contaminated with at least one species of cSTH, with hookworms being the most prevalent parasites (10.2%) followed by Trichuris spp. (1.3%) and Strongyloides spp. (1.2%). This is the first large-scale study investigating the contamination of urban parks with cSTHs in Australia, and the first nation-wide study to demonstrate the occurrence of Strongyloides spp. in canine faecal samples from urban areas in the country. This study reveals a high rate of contamination with cSTHs in dog parks in urban Australia, most of which having proven zoonotic potential. Preventive measures, including awareness-raising educational programs promoting responsible pet ownership, should be encouraged to minimise the health risks associated with cSTHs for both dogs and humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Massetti
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC3052, Australia.
| | - Anke Wiethoelter
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC3052, Australia
| | - Phillip McDonagh
- Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health Australia, North Ryde, New South Wales 2113, Australia
| | - Louise Rae
- Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health Australia, North Ryde, New South Wales 2113, Australia
| | - Lara Marwedel
- Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health Australia, North Ryde, New South Wales 2113, Australia
| | | | - Vito Colella
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC3052, Australia
| | - Rebecca J Traub
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC3052, Australia
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Using quantitative PCR to identify opportunities to strengthen soil-transmitted helminth control in Solomon Islands: A cross-sectional epidemiological survey. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2022; 16:e0010350. [PMID: 35604904 PMCID: PMC9126411 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0010350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The Kato-Katz microscopy technique is the global standard for assessment of soil-transmitted helminth (STH) burden. However, major limitations include its poor sensitivity, requirement for rapid sample processing, and inability to differentiate hookworm species nor detect Strongyloides spp. infections. We assessed the prevalence and intensity of STH species in Solomon Islands by conducting a province-wide survey using quantitative PCR (qPCR) for diagnosis, which can provide much better characterisation of STH burden than microscopy. Methodology/Principal findings We conducted a cross-sectional survey in 18 villages in Western Province to detect infections with six STH species and quantify intensity with three. We used linear mixed model regression to identify potential water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) and environmental risk factors for infection. We collected stool specimens from 830 village residents. Overall STH prevalence was 63.3% (range 27.5 to 91.5% across villages), led by Necator americanus (54.5% [range 17.5–89.4%]), followed by Ancylostoma ceylanicum (15.5% [range 2.8–45.8%]), Trichuris trichiura (9.1% [range 0–79.2%]), and Strongyloides spp. (3.2% [range 0–29.2%]). Most infections were of light intensity for N. americanus (85.7%) and T. trichiura (90.7%). Owning a household latrine was associated with a lower risk of N. americanus infection (AOR 0.41, 95% CI 0.24–0.68) while greater precipitation was linked to more common T. trichiura infection (AOR 1.14, 95% CI 1.04–1.25). Conclusion/Significance In this first large-scale population survey of STH in the Pacific using qPCR, we found evidence that ivermectin should be incorporated into STH control programmes because of the presence of T. trichiura and Strongyloides spp., both of which are poorly responsive to albendazole. Furthermore, One Health strategies are needed for improved A. ceylanicum and Strongyloides spp. control, WASH access and use should be improved to complement deworming programmes, and control efforts should ideally be expanded to entire communities. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12618001086257. Routine assessments of the burden of intestinal worm infections rely on microscopy-based diagnostic methods, such as the Kato-Katz technique. However major limitations include its poor sensitivity, requirement for rapid sample processing, and inability to differentiate individual hookworm species and detect Strongyloides spp. infections. It is important to assess the burden of each of these infections to design control approaches beyond the current core strategy of albendazole preventive chemotherapy. Use of qPCR for diagnosis could address these gaps because it can distinguish all relevant intestinal worm species. We completed a province-wide intestinal worm infections prevalence survey using qPCR in Western Province, Solomon Islands. Overall prevalence was extremely high (62.5%). We identified a high burden of Necator americanus (54.5%) and detected Ancylostoma ceylanicum (15.5%), Trichuris trichiura (9.1%), and Strongyloides spp. (3.2%) infections. Increased age and precipitation were associated with higher prevalence of infection, while owning a household latrine was associated with lower odds of N. americanus infection. Our findings support the need to incorporate ivermectin into deworming programmes for Strongyloides spp. and T. trichiura control as these species are poorly responsive to albendazole, implement One Health strategies to address the zoonotic A. ceylanicum and Strongyloides spp., and expand control efforts to reach entire communities. WASH access should also be improved to complement deworming programmes.
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