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Zurita A, Trujillo I, García-Sánchez ÁM, Cutillas C. Survey of flea infestation in cats and dogs in Western Andalusia, Spain: Seasonality and other risk factors for flea infestation. MEDICAL AND VETERINARY ENTOMOLOGY 2024; 38:244-251. [PMID: 38259177 DOI: 10.1111/mve.12705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
This epidemiological survey aims to provide an update on the main flea species that parasitize domestic animals in the Western Andalusia assessing several ecological features that could be considered as possible risk factors for flea infestation. Over a 19-month period (June 2021 to January 2023), we obtained a total of 802 flea samples from 182 dogs (Canis lupus familiaris, Carnivora: Canidae, Linnaeus, 1758) and 78 cats (Felis silvestris catus, Carnivora: Felidae, Schreber, 1775). For each parasitized host, an epidemiological survey was completed, including the following information: geographical origin, age, sex, rural or urban habitat, type of animal's lifestyle (domestic or non-domestic), health status, cohabiting or not with other animals and the total number of collected fleas. The most common species was Ctenocephalides felis (Siphonaptera: Pulicidae) (Bouché, 1835) with a total of 713 specimens, which accounted for 89% of the total fleas. The second most abundant species was Pulex irritans (Siphonaptera: Pulicidae) (Linnaeus, 1758) with a total of 46 collected fleas (6% of the total). The remaining species identified were Archaeopsylla erinacei (Siphonaptera: Pulicidae) (Bouché, 1835) (25 specimens), Spilopsyllus cuniculi (Siphonaptera: Pulicidae) (Dale, 1878) (12 specimens) and Ctenocephalides canis (Siphonaptera: Pulicidae) (Curtis, 1826) (6 specimens), which accounted for 3%, 1% and 1%, respectively, of the total fleas collected. The months with the highest number of collected fleas were, in ascending order, May 2022, September 2021 and July 2021. Dogs had a greater diversity of flea species, and flea sex ratios were female biased in all identified species and among all studied hosts. Finally, we identified some potential host risk factors that promoted higher flea intensities, such as living in rural areas, or presenting other pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Zurita
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Seville, Seville, Spain
| | - Ignacio Trujillo
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Seville, Seville, Spain
| | | | - Cristina Cutillas
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Seville, Seville, Spain
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Tadee P, Chansakaow S, Tipduangta P, Tadee P, Khaodang P, Chukiatsiri K. Essential oil pharmaceuticals for killing ectoparasites on dogs. J Vet Sci 2024; 25:e5. [PMID: 38311320 PMCID: PMC10839170 DOI: 10.4142/jvs.23189] [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: 07/29/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND External parasites, particularly ticks and fleas, are among the most common problems affecting dogs. Chemical medicines are commonly used to prevent and eliminate such external parasites, but their improper use can cause adverse reactions, and the toxins they contain may remain in the environment. OBJECTIVES The objective of this study was to investigate the in vitro efficacy of Zanthoxylum limonella, citronella, clove, peppermint, and ginger essential oils against dog ticks and fleas and to test the sensitivity of dogs' skin to these essential oils. METHODS The five essential oils were tested for in vitro efficacy against ticks and fleas, and the two most effective essential oils were then tested on the dogs' skin. RESULTS The results revealed that these five essential oils at 16% concentrations effectively inhibited the spawning of female engorged ticks. In addition, all five essential oils had a strong ability to kill tick larvae at concentrations of 2% upward. Furthermore, 4% concentrations of the five essential oils quickly eliminated fleas, especially clove oil, which killed 100% of fleas within 1 h. A 50%, 90%, and 99% lethal concentration (LC50, LC90, and LC99) for the essential oils on tick larvae in 24 h were found to be low values. LC50, LC90, and LC99 for the essential oils on flea in 1 h was lowest values. Clove oil at 16% concentration was the most satisfactory essential oil for application on dogs' skin, with a low percentage of adverse effects. CONCLUSIONS This study confirmed the effectiveness of essential oils for practical use as tick and flea repellents and eliminators. Essential-oil-based pharmaceutical can replace chemical pesticides and provide benefits for both consumers and the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phacharaporn Tadee
- Faculty of Animal Science and Technology, Maejo University, Chiang Mai 50290, Thailand.
| | - Sunee Chansakaow
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | | | - Pakpoom Tadee
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Pakasinee Khaodang
- Faculty of Animal Science and Technology, Maejo University, Chiang Mai 50290, Thailand
| | - Kridda Chukiatsiri
- Faculty of Animal Science and Technology, Maejo University, Chiang Mai 50290, Thailand
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Farrell S, McGarry J, Noble PM, Pinchbeck GJ, Cantwell S, Radford AD, Singleton DA. Seasonality and other risk factors for fleas infestations in domestic dogs and cats. MEDICAL AND VETERINARY ENTOMOLOGY 2023; 37:359-370. [PMID: 36621899 PMCID: PMC10946788 DOI: 10.1111/mve.12636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Fleas in the genus Ctenocephalides are the most clinically important parasitic arthropods of dogs and cats worldwide yet risk factors that might increase the risk of infestation in small animals remains unclear. Here we developed a supervised text mining approach analysing key aspects of flea epidemiology using electronic health records from domestic cats and dogs seen at a sentinel network of 191 voluntary veterinary practices across Great Britain between March 2014 and July 2020. Our methods identified fleas as likely to have been present during 22,276 of 1,902,016 cat consultations (1.17%) and 12,168 of 4,844,850 dog consultations (0.25%). Multivariable logistic regression modelling found that animals originating from areas of least deprivation were associated with 50% reductions in odds of veterinary-recorded flea infestation compared to the most deprived regions in England. Age of the animal was significantly associated with flea presentation in both cats and dogs, with cases peaking before animals reached 12 months. Cases were recorded through each study years, peaking between July and October, with fluctuations between each year. Our findings can be used towards healthcare messaging for veterinary practitioners and owners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean Farrell
- School of BiosciencesUniversity of KentCanterburyKentUK
| | - John McGarry
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological SciencesUniversity of LiverpoolNestonUK
| | | | - Gina J. Pinchbeck
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological SciencesUniversity of LiverpoolNestonUK
| | - Sophie Cantwell
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological SciencesUniversity of LiverpoolNestonUK
| | - Alan D. Radford
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological SciencesUniversity of LiverpoolNestonUK
| | - David A. Singleton
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological SciencesUniversity of LiverpoolNestonUK
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Adepoju OA, Afinowi OA, Tauheed AM, Danazumi AU, Dibba LBS, Balogun JB, Flore G, Saidu U, Ibrahim B, Balogun OO, Balogun EO. Multisectoral Perspectives on Global Warming and Vector-borne Diseases: a Focus on Southern Europe. CURRENT TROPICAL MEDICINE REPORTS 2023; 10:47-70. [PMID: 36742193 PMCID: PMC9883833 DOI: 10.1007/s40475-023-00283-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Purpose of Review The climate change (CC) or global warming (GW) modifies environment that favors vectors' abundance, growth, and reproduction, and consequently, the rate of development of pathogens within the vectors. This review highlights the threats of GW-induced vector-borne diseases (VBDs) in Southern Europe (SE) and the need for mitigation efforts to prevent potential global health catastrophe. Recent Findings Reports showed astronomical surges in the incidences of CC-induced VBDs in the SE. The recently (2022) reported first cases of African swine fever in Northern Italy and West Nile fever in SE are linked to the CC-modified environmental conditions that support vectors and pathogens' growth and development, and disease transmission. Summary VBDs endemic to the tropics are increasingly becoming a major health challenge in the SE, a temperate region, due to the favorable environmental conditions caused by CC/GW that support vectors and pathogens' biology in the previously non-endemic temperate regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oluwafemi A. Adepoju
- Department of Biochemistry, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, 2222 Kaduna State Nigeria
| | | | - Abdullah M. Tauheed
- Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, 2222 Kaduna State Nigeria
| | - Ammar U. Danazumi
- Faculty of Chemistry, Warsaw University of Technology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Lamin B. S. Dibba
- Department of Physical and Natural Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, University of the Gambia, Serrekunda, The Gambia
| | - Joshua B. Balogun
- Department of Biological Sciences, Federal University Dutse, Jigawa State Dutse, Nigeria
| | - Gouegni Flore
- Department of Biochemistry, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, 2222 Kaduna State Nigeria
- Africa Centre of Excellence for Neglected Tropical Diseases and Forensic Biotechnology (ACENTDFB), Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, 2222 Kaduna State Nigeria
| | - Umar Saidu
- Department of Biochemistry, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, 2222 Kaduna State Nigeria
- Africa Centre of Excellence for Neglected Tropical Diseases and Forensic Biotechnology (ACENTDFB), Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, 2222 Kaduna State Nigeria
| | - Bashiru Ibrahim
- Department of Biochemistry, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, 2222 Kaduna State Nigeria
| | - Olukunmi O. Balogun
- Department of Health Policy, National Center for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Emmanuel O. Balogun
- Department of Biochemistry, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, 2222 Kaduna State Nigeria
- Africa Centre of Excellence for Neglected Tropical Diseases and Forensic Biotechnology (ACENTDFB), Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, 2222 Kaduna State Nigeria
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Thuesen IS, Agerholm JS, Mejer H, Nielsen SS, Sandøe P. How Serious Are Health-Related Welfare Problems in Unowned Unsocialised Domestic Cats? A Study from Denmark Based on 598 Necropsies. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12050662. [PMID: 35268230 PMCID: PMC8909710 DOI: 10.3390/ani12050662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Revised: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Free ranging unsocialised domestic cats are widely believed to suffer from a high load of welfare problems. We assessed the validity of this belief by performing necropsies on the corpses of 598 unsocialised cats, originating from all parts of Denmark, that had been euthanised by two Danish cat welfare organisations. We selected a number of variables for health-related cat welfare that could be assessed through necropsy (e.g., gross lesions, ectoparasites and body condition) or by laboratory analysis (e.g., infection with feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), and by feline leukaemia virus (FeLV)). Each finding was classified as having either a major or minor welfare impact on the cat. More than 83% of the cats had no major finding, and 54% had no finding indicating a welfare issue at all. More than 83% of the cats had a body condition within normal range. Only 0.3% were emaciated. The most common finding was infestation with ectoparasites, with 15.9% infected with lice, 12.3% with fleas, 4.7% with ticks, and 6.7% with ear mites. FIV and FeLV were detected in 9.2% and 1.2% of the cases, respectively. The most common lesion related to the cats’ teeth. Overall, unsocialised cats in Denmark have a moderate level of health-related welfare problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ida Sofie Thuesen
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, DK-1870 Frederiksberg C, Denmark; (I.S.T.); (H.M.); (S.S.N.)
| | - Jørgen Steen Agerholm
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, DK-2630 Tåstrup, Denmark;
| | - Helena Mejer
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, DK-1870 Frederiksberg C, Denmark; (I.S.T.); (H.M.); (S.S.N.)
| | - Søren Saxmose Nielsen
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, DK-1870 Frederiksberg C, Denmark; (I.S.T.); (H.M.); (S.S.N.)
| | - Peter Sandøe
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, DK-1870 Frederiksberg C, Denmark; (I.S.T.); (H.M.); (S.S.N.)
- Department of Food and Resource Economics, University of Copenhagen, DK-1958 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +45-21497292
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Do T, Inpankaew T, Duong DH, Bui KL. First Molecular Evidence of Pathogens in Fleas Collected from Dogs in Northern Vietnam. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10091185. [PMID: 34578217 PMCID: PMC8472576 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10091185] [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] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Revised: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Fleas are considered as hosts for a wide range of pathogens that cause emerging and re-emerging zoonotic diseases worldwide. Data on fleas and flea-borne pathogens (FBPs) in the international literature are limited in Vietnam. This study aimed to investigate the species of fleas and the presence of pathogens of interest in fleas in northern Vietnam using PCR and sequence analysis. Out of 200 dogs enrolled in this study, 20% were infested by the flea species Ctenocephalides felis felis. In total, 62 fleas (35 females and 27 males) collected from domestic dogs were molecularly screened for the detection of pathogens. Out of the screened fleas, 39 were positive for Rickettsia felis (62.9%), 9 for Candidatus Mycoplasma hemobos (14.52%), and 6 for Mycoplasma wenyonii (9.68%). This study shows the first molecular detection of the above-mentioned pathogens in fleas collected from the studied areas and the potential risk of infection with examined FBPs in northern Vietnam.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thom Do
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Bangkok 10900, Thailand; (T.D.); (T.I.)
| | - Tawin Inpankaew
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Bangkok 10900, Thailand; (T.D.); (T.I.)
| | - Duc Hieu Duong
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Vietnam National University of Agriculture, Hanoi 12406, Vietnam;
| | - Khanh Linh Bui
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Vietnam National University of Agriculture, Hanoi 12406, Vietnam;
- Correspondence:
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Beugnet F. NexGard ® Combo (esafoxolaner, eprinomectin, praziquantel), a new endectoparasiticide spot-on formulation for cats. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 28:E1. [PMID: 33812448 PMCID: PMC8019561 DOI: 10.1051/parasite/2021013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Frederic Beugnet
- Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health, 29 Av Tony Garnier, 69007 Lyon, France
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8
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Pawełczyk O, Asman M, Solarz K. The Discovery of Zoonotic Protozoans in Fleas Parasitizing on Pets as a Potential Infection Threat. Acta Parasitol 2020; 65:817-822. [PMID: 32468231 PMCID: PMC7679334 DOI: 10.2478/s11686-020-00221-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2020] [Accepted: 04/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Fleas are insects with a high medical and veterinary importance. They may participate in spreading of many pathogenic agents, but still there is limited information about their possible reservoir or vector role for protozoans. The main aim of this study was an attempt of detection zoonotic pathogens, such as Babesia microti and Toxoplasma gondii in fleas Ctenocephalides felis felis and Ctenocephalides canis. METHODS In 2013-2017, 155 fleas were captured from domestic dogs and cats in veterinary clinics, animal shelters and pet grooming salons in Upper Silesia Region in Poland. Then, the DNA was extracted from each Ctenocephalides flea by using the ammonia method. Samples were screened for the presence of B. microti and T. gondii using PCR and nested PCR methods. RESULTS B. microti was reported in 6.6% of C. felis felis and 9.1% of C. canis, whereas the prevalence of coinfection with B. microti and T. gondii was 1.9% in cat fleas and 2.3% in dog fleas. CONCLUSION This study shows the first cases of B. microti occurrence and B. microti and T. gondii coinfection in Ctenocephalides fleas. The estimation of prevalence of examined protozoans may be useful considering the possibility of infection among companion animals, as well as during presentation of the potential risk of infection in humans. In order to clarify the role of C. felis felis and C. canis in transmission of B. microti and T. gondii, the another studies with in vitro cultures and laboratory animals are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Pawełczyk
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences in Sosnowiec, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland.
| | - Marek Asman
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences in Sosnowiec, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Krzysztof Solarz
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences in Sosnowiec, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
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Buhler KJ, Maggi RG, Gailius J, Galloway TD, Chilton NB, Alisauskas RT, Samelius G, Bouchard É, Jenkins EJ. Hopping species and borders: detection of Bartonella spp. in avian nest fleas and arctic foxes from Nunavut, Canada. Parasit Vectors 2020; 13:469. [PMID: 32928287 PMCID: PMC7490881 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-020-04344-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In a warmer and more globally connected Arctic, vector-borne pathogens of zoonotic importance may be increasing in prevalence in native wildlife. Recently, Bartonella henselae, the causative agent of cat scratch fever, was detected in blood collected from arctic foxes (Vulpes lagopus) that were captured and released in the large goose colony at Karrak Lake, Nunavut, Canada. This bacterium is generally associated with cats and cat fleas, which are absent from Arctic ecosystems. Arctic foxes in this region feed extensively on migratory geese, their eggs, and their goslings. Thus, we hypothesized that a nest flea, Ceratophyllus vagabundus vagabundus (Boheman, 1865), may serve as a vector for transmission of Bartonella spp. METHODS We determined the prevalence of Bartonella spp. in (i) nest fleas collected from 5 arctic fox dens and (ii) 37 surrounding goose nests, (iii) fleas collected from 20 geese harvested during arrival at the nesting grounds and (iv) blood clots from 57 adult live-captured arctic foxes. A subsample of fleas were identified morphologically as C. v. vagabundus. Remaining fleas were pooled for each nest, den, or host. DNA was extracted from flea pools and blood clots and analyzed with conventional and real-time polymerase chain reactions targeting the 16S-23S rRNA intergenic transcribed spacer region. RESULTS Bartonella henselae was identified in 43% of pooled flea samples from nests and 40% of pooled flea samples from fox dens. Bartonella vinsonii berkhoffii was identified in 30% of pooled flea samples collected from 20 geese. Both B. vinsonii berkhoffii (n = 2) and B. rochalimae (n = 1) were identified in the blood of foxes. CONCLUSIONS We confirm that B. henselae, B. vinsonii berkhoffii and B. rochalimae circulate in the Karrak Lake ecosystem and that nest fleas contain B. vinsonii and B. henselae DNA, suggesting that this flea may serve as a potential vector for transmission among Arctic wildlife.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kayla J Buhler
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, 52 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5B4, Canada.
| | - Ricardo G Maggi
- Intracellular Pathogens Research Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, 1060 William Moore Drive, Raleigh, NC, 27606, USA
| | - Julie Gailius
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, 52 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5B4, Canada
| | - Terry D Galloway
- Department of Entomology, Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences, University of Manitoba, 12 Dafoe Road, Winnipeg, MB, R3T 2N2, Canada
| | - Neil B Chilton
- Department of Biology, University of Saskatchewan, Science Place, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5E2, Canada
| | - Ray T Alisauskas
- Department of Biology, University of Saskatchewan, Science Place, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5E2, Canada
- Prairie and Northern Wildlife Research Centre, Wildlife Research Division, Environment and Climate Change Canada, 115 Perimeter Road, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 0X4, Canada
| | - Gustaf Samelius
- Snow Leopard Trust, 4649 Sunnyside Ave North, Suite 325, Seattle, WA, 98103, USA
| | - Émilie Bouchard
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, 52 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5B4, Canada
| | - Emily J Jenkins
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, 52 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5B4, Canada
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Greigert V, Brunet J, Ouarti B, Laroche M, Pfaff AW, Henon N, Lemoine JP, Mathieu B, Parola P, Candolfi E, Abou-Bacar A. The Trick of the Hedgehog: Case Report and Short Review About Archaeopsylla erinacei (Siphonaptera: Pulicidae) in Human Health. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2020; 57:318-323. [PMID: 31595296 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjz157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Fleas are ectoparasites of various animals, including Homo sapiens Linnaeus, 1758 (Primates: Hominidae). Among the species relevant to the human health field, either due to their dermatopathological potential or because of their role as vectors of microorganisms responsible for infectious diseases, such as plague or murine typhus, are the human flea, oriental rat flea, closely related cat and dog fleas, and chigoe flea. However, other species can accidentally infest humans. We have herein reported two unusual cases of humans infested and bitten by Archaeopsylla erinacei, the hedgehog flea. This species has been identified using stereomicroscopy, on the base of key characteristics. Furthermore, a brief literature review has revealed that hedgehog fleas could carry human-infectious agents, such as Rickettsia felis Bouyer et al. 2001 (Rickettsiales: Rickettsiaceae) or Bartonella henselae Regnery et al.1992 (Rhizobiales: Bartonellaceae). Using molecular biology, we thus tested nine A. erinacei specimens taken from these patients, for several bacteria species commonly associated with hematophagous arthropods, implicated in human pathology. However, all our samples were proven negative. The role of A. erinacei in human epidemiology has never been evaluated to date. This report sought to remind us that these fleas can be accidental parasites in humans. In addition, recent findings pertaining to bacteria of medical interest that are present in these insects should be brought to the fore, given that the question of their role as vectors in human infections remains unanswered and deserves further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentin Greigert
- Institut de Parasitologie et Pathologie Tropicale, Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Julie Brunet
- Institut de Parasitologie et Pathologie Tropicale, Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie et Mycologie Médicales, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Basma Ouarti
- Aix Marseille Université, IRD, AP-HM, SSA, VITROME, Marseille, France
- IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
| | - Maureen Laroche
- Aix Marseille Université, IRD, AP-HM, SSA, VITROME, Marseille, France
- IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
| | - Alexander W Pfaff
- Institut de Parasitologie et Pathologie Tropicale, Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie et Mycologie Médicales, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Nicolas Henon
- Institut de Parasitologie et Pathologie Tropicale, Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Jean-Philippe Lemoine
- Institut de Parasitologie et Pathologie Tropicale, Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie et Mycologie, CHU d'Angers, France
| | - Bruno Mathieu
- Institut de Parasitologie et Pathologie Tropicale, Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Philippe Parola
- Aix Marseille Université, IRD, AP-HM, SSA, VITROME, Marseille, France
- IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
| | - Ermanno Candolfi
- Institut de Parasitologie et Pathologie Tropicale, Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie et Mycologie Médicales, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Ahmed Abou-Bacar
- Institut de Parasitologie et Pathologie Tropicale, Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie et Mycologie Médicales, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
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Abdullah S, Helps C, Tasker S, Newbury H, Wall R. Pathogens in fleas collected from cats and dogs: distribution and prevalence in the UK. Parasit Vectors 2019; 12:71. [PMID: 30728050 PMCID: PMC6366081 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-019-3326-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2018] [Accepted: 01/29/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Fleas (Siphonaptera) are the most clinically important ectoparasites of dogs and cats worldwide. Rising levels of pet ownership, climate change and globalisation are increasing the importance of a detailed understanding of the endemicity and prevalence of flea-borne pathogens. This requires continued surveillance to detect change. This study reports a large-scale survey of pathogens in fleas collected from client-owned cats and dogs in the UK. Methods Recruited veterinary practices were asked to follow a standardised flea inspection protocol on a randomised selection of cats and dogs brought into the practice in April and June 2018. A total of 326 practices participated and 812 cats and 662 dogs were examined. Fleas were collected, identified to species and pooled flea samples from each host were analysed for the presence of pathogens using PCR and sequence analysis. Results Overall, 28.1% of cats and 14.4% of dogs were flea infested. More than 90% of the fleas on both cats and dogs were cat fleas, Ctenocephalides felis felis. Fleas of the same species from each infested host were pooled. DNA was amplified from 470 of the pooled flea samples using conventional PCR, 66 of which (14% ± 95% CI 3.14%) were positive for at least one pathogen. Fifty-three (11.3% ± 95% CI 2.85%) of the pooled flea DNA samples were positive for Bartonella spp., 35 were from cats and 4 from dogs, the remainder had no host record. Seventeen of the Bartonella spp. samples were found to be Bartonella henselae, 27 were Bartonella clarridgeiae (of two different strains), 4 samples were Bartonella alsatica and one was Bartonella grahamii; 4 samples could not be identified. Fourteen (3% ± 95% CI 1.53%) of the flea DNA samples were found to be positive for Dipylidium caninum, 10 of the D. caninum-infected samples were collected from cats and one from a dog, the other 3 positive flea samples had no host species record. Only 3 flea samples were positive for Mycoplasma haemofelis or Mycoplasma haemocanis; 2 were collected from cats and one had no host species record. Three fleas were positive for both D. caninum and Bartonella spp. One flea was positive for both Bartonella spp. and M. haemofelis or M. haemocanis. Conclusions This study highlights the need for ongoing flea control, particularly given the relatively high prevalence of Bartonella spp., which is of concern for both animal welfare and human health. The study demonstrates the ongoing need to educate pet owners about the effects of both flea infestation and also the pathogen risks these fleas present.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swaid Abdullah
- Veterinary Parasitology and Ecology Group, School of Biological Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK. .,Present address: School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Queensland, Gatton, Australia.
| | - Chris Helps
- Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Langford Vets and Bristol Veterinary School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Séverine Tasker
- Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Langford Vets and Bristol Veterinary School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.,Present address: The Linnaeus Group, Shirley, UK
| | - Hannah Newbury
- MSD Animal Health, Walton Manor, Walton, Milton Keynes, UK
| | - Richard Wall
- Veterinary Parasitology and Ecology Group, School of Biological Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
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Edwards CH, Baird J, Zinser E, Woods DJ, Shaw S, Campbell EM, Bowman AS. RNA interference in the cat flea, Ctenocephalides felis: Approaches for sustained gene knockdown and evidence of involvement of Dicer-2 and Argonaute2. Int J Parasitol 2018; 48:993-1002. [PMID: 30261185 PMCID: PMC6237673 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2018.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2018] [Revised: 04/06/2018] [Accepted: 04/11/2018] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Effective RNA interference (RNAi) methods have been developed in many pest species, enabling exploration of gene function. Until now RNAi had not been attempted in the cat flea, Ctenocephalides felis, although the development of RNAi approaches would open up potential avenues for control of this important pest. This study aimed to establish if an RNAi response occurs in adult C. felis upon exposure to double-stranded RNA (dsRNA), which administration methods for dsRNA delivery could bring about effective gene knockdown and to investigate dynamics of any RNAi response. Knockdown of 80% of GSTσ was achieved by intrahaemoceolic microinjection of dsGSTσ but this invasive technique was associated with relatively high mortality rates. Immersing C. felis in dsGSTσ or dsDicer-2 overnight resulted in 65% knockdown of GSTσ or 60% of Dicer-2, respectively, and the degree of knockdown was not improved by increasing the dsRNA concentration in the bathing solution. Unexpectedly, the greatest degree of knockdown was achieved with the continuous administration of dsRNA in whole blood via a membrane feeding system, resulting in 96% knockdown of GSTσ within 2 days and sustained up to, at least, 7 days. Thus, unlike in many other species, the gut nucleases do not impair the RNAi response to ingested dsRNA in C. felis. A modest, but significant, upregulation of Dicer-2 and Argonaute2 was detectable 3 h after exposure to exogenous dsRNA, implicating the short-interfering RNA pathway. To our knowledge this study represents the first demonstration of experimentally induced RNAi in the cat flea as well as giving insight into how the gene knockdown response progresses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catriona H Edwards
- Institute of Biological and Environmental Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Tillydrone Avenue, Aberdeen AB24 2TZ, UK
| | - John Baird
- Institute of Biological and Environmental Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Tillydrone Avenue, Aberdeen AB24 2TZ, UK
| | - Erich Zinser
- Zoetis Inc, 333 Portage Street, Kalamazoo, Michigan 49007, USA
| | - Debra J Woods
- Zoetis Inc, 333 Portage Street, Kalamazoo, Michigan 49007, USA
| | - Sophie Shaw
- Centre for Genome Enabled Biology and Medicine, University of Aberdeen, 23 St. Machar Drive, Old Aberdeen AB24 3RY, UK
| | - Ewan M Campbell
- Institute of Biological and Environmental Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Tillydrone Avenue, Aberdeen AB24 2TZ, UK
| | - Alan S Bowman
- Institute of Biological and Environmental Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Tillydrone Avenue, Aberdeen AB24 2TZ, UK.
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Müller A, Rodríguez E, Walker R, Bittencourt P, Pérez-Macchi S, Gonçalves LR, Machado RZ, André MR. Occurrence and Genetic Diversity of Bartonella spp. (Rhizobiales: Bartonellaceae) and Rickettsia spp. (Rickettsiales: Rickettsiaceae) in Cat Fleas (Siphonaptera: Pulicidae) From Chile. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2018; 55:1627-1632. [PMID: 30085290 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjy124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to perform a molecular survey and determine the genetic diversity of Bartonella spp. (Rhizobiales: Bartonellaceae) and Rickettsia spp. (Rickettsiales: Rickettsiaceae) in cat fleas (Siphonaptera: Pulicidae) from Southern Chile. Fleas (n = 251) were collected from 150 cats in Valdivia city and identified using morphological keys. Fleas belonging to the same cat were pooled (two to seven fleas per pool). DNA was purified from individual (n = 92) and pooled (n = 58) fleas and submitted to conventional polymerase chain reaction assays targeting Bartonella spp. (gltA) and Rickettsia spp. (ompA). Selected positive samples were sequenced for Bartonella gltA (n = 19), Rickettsia ompA (n = 14), and Rickettsia gltA (n = 11) for speciation, phylogenetic, and diversity analyses. All fleas (n = 251) were identified as Ctenocephalides felis felis (Bouché) (Siphonaptera: Pulicidae). Bartonella and Rickettsia occurrences in C. felis felis were 39.3% (59/150) and 76.6% (115/150), respectively. From sequenced Bartonella spp., 47.3% (9/19) were identified as Bartonella clarridgeiae, 42.1% (8/19) as Bartonella henselae, 5.3% (1/19) as Bartonella koehlerae, and 5.3% (1/19) as Bartonella sp. Rickettsia felis was the only Rickettsiaceae species identified in both ompA (14/14) and gltA (11/11) products. B. henselae and B. clarridgeiae presented five genotypes. R. felis ompA sequences presented seven genotypes. On the other hand, R. felis gltA sequences showed only one genotype. Bartonella spp. and R. felis are described for the first time in C. felis felis fleas from Southern Chile, highlighting the importance of these vectors as a source of zoonotic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ananda Müller
- Instituto de Ciencias Clínicas Veterinarias, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Elsa Rodríguez
- Instituto de Ciencias Clínicas Veterinarias, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Romina Walker
- Instituto de Ciencias Clínicas Veterinarias, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Pedro Bittencourt
- Escuela de Medicina Veterinaria, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Mayor, Temuco, Chile
| | - Sandra Pérez-Macchi
- Instituto de Ciencias Clínicas Veterinarias, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Luiz Ricardo Gonçalves
- Departamento de Patologia Veterinária, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista (FCAV/UNESP), Jaboticabal, Brazil
| | - Rosangela Zacarias Machado
- Departamento de Patologia Veterinária, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista (FCAV/UNESP), Jaboticabal, Brazil
| | - Marcos Rogério André
- Departamento de Patologia Veterinária, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista (FCAV/UNESP), Jaboticabal, Brazil
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Riner AJ, Rudd JL, Clifford DL, Cypher BL, Foley JE, Foley P. Comparison of Flea (Siphonaptera) Burdens on the Endangered San Joaquin Kit Fox (Vulpes macrotis mutica (Carnivora, Canidae)) Inhabiting Urban and Nonurban Environments in Central Valley, California. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2018; 55:995-1001. [PMID: 29546382 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjy031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2017] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The San Joaquin kit fox (Vulpes macrotis mutica Merriam (Carnivora, Canidae)) is an endangered small carnivore endemic to the San Joaquin Valley of California. Commercial and agricultural land expansion has contributed to the species' decline and invasion of more cosmopolitan species, providing means for potential ecological shifts in disease vector and host species. Fleas are common ectoparasites that can serve as important indicators of cross-species interactions and disease risk. We compared flea load and species composition on kit foxes inhabiting urban and nonurban habitats to determine how urbanization affects flea diversity and potential disease spillover from co-occurring species. We identified Echidnophaga gallinacea (Westwood) (Siphonaptera, Pulicidae) and Pulex spp. (L.) in both urban and nonurban populations, and Ctenocephalides felis (Bouche) (Siphonaptera, Pulicidae) only in the urban population. Flea load scores differed significantly across capture sites and with respect to concomitant sarcoptic mange infestation in the urban population, with milder flea infestations more typical of healthy foxes. All observed flea species are known vectors for pathogens that have been detected in mesocarnivores. Further examination of kit fox fleas and their associated pathogens will help to direct conservation and disease preventive measures for both wildlife and humans in the region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Jane Riner
- Department of Medicine and Epidemiology, University of California Davis, Davis, CA
| | - Jaime L Rudd
- Department of Medicine and Epidemiology, University of California Davis, Davis, CA
- California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Wildlife Investigations Lab, Rancho Cordova, CA
| | - Deana L Clifford
- Department of Medicine and Epidemiology, University of California Davis, Davis, CA
- California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Wildlife Investigations Lab, Rancho Cordova, CA
| | - Brian L Cypher
- California State University Stanislaus, Endangered Species Recovery Program, Turlock, CA
| | - Janet E Foley
- Department of Medicine and Epidemiology, University of California Davis, Davis, CA
| | - Patrick Foley
- Department of Biological Sciences, California State University Sacramento, Sacramento, CA
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Beugnet F, Labuschagne M, Vos CD, Crafford D, Fourie J. Analysis of Dipylidium caninum tapeworms from dogs and cats, or their respective fleas - Part 2. Distinct canine and feline host association with two different Dipylidium caninum genotypes. Parasite 2018; 25:31. [PMID: 29806593 PMCID: PMC6013090 DOI: 10.1051/parasite/2018029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2018] [Accepted: 04/21/2018] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Initial investigations suggested the existence of two distinct genotypes of Dipylidium caninum from infected cat fleas (Ctenocephalides felis). One genotype was found almost always (> 95%) in fleas collected from, and proglottids shed by, domestic dogs. The other was found almost always (> 95%) in fleas collected from, and proglottids shed by, domestic cats. Molecular investigations (Part 1, in this journal) confirmed the presence of two distinct genotypes. Due to the apparent host association observed, these were referred to as the "D. caninum canine genotype" and the "D. caninum feline genotype". The current article reports on an in vivo experimental infection study assessing the host-parasite interaction for each genotype. Mixed infections with the two genotypes in both dogs and cats were conducted. The specific genotyping of proglottids allowed us to assess the specific prepatent periods, prolificity, and longevity of each genotype in dogs versus cats. The possible hybridisation was also studied through molecular evaluation of the proglottids expelled by infected dogs and cats. Results demonstrate a clear distinct host interaction. The canine D. caninum genotype occurred at a higher frequency in dogs, with a shorter prepatent period and a longer lifespan; and the feline genotype occurred at a higher frequency in cats, with a shorter prepatent period and a longer lifespan. The absence of any hybrids in the mixed infections of both dogs and cats confirm the hypothesis of two distinct genotypes, suggesting the possibility of two distinct species within Dipylidium caninum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frédéric Beugnet
- Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health, 29 Av T. Garnier, 69007 Lyon, France
| | - Michel Labuschagne
- Clinomics, P.O. Box 11186, Universitas, Bloemfontein, 9321, South Africa
| | - Christa de Vos
- Clinvet, P.O. Box 11186, Universitas, Bloemfontein, 9321, South Africa
| | - Dionne Crafford
- Clinvet, P.O. Box 11186, Universitas, Bloemfontein, 9321, South Africa
| | - Josephus Fourie
- Clinvet, P.O. Box 11186, Universitas, Bloemfontein, 9321, South Africa
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16
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Ahn KS, Huh SE, Seol SW, Kim HJ, Suh KH, Shin S. Ctenocephalides canis is the dominant flea species of dogs in the Republic of Korea. Parasit Vectors 2018; 11:196. [PMID: 29559005 PMCID: PMC5859511 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-018-2769-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2018] [Accepted: 03/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The status of flea infestation in dogs is an important public health concern because of their cosmopolitan distribution worldwide and the flea-borne disease transmission. In the present study, we investigated the flea infestation among 116 outdoor dogs (57 females and 59 males) in 8 rural areas of Jeonnam Province, Republic of Korea. RESULTS Thirty-three dogs (28.4%) were infested with fleas, and all dogs were infested with Ctenocephalides canis. One dog from Hampyeong was co-infested with Ctenocephalides felis orientis, but no dogs were infested with Ctenocephalides felis felis. The reasons behind this almost exclusive distribution of flea species in dogs from Korea are currently unknown and will require further epidemiological and biological investigations. However, since all dogs investigated in the study were raised in an outdoor environment, the development of flea eggs, larvae and pupae in climatic conditions in Korea might have negatively affected the survival of other flea species. Due to the shoes-off culture and floor-heating system of Korean houses, indoor dogs are rarely infested with fleas in Korea. CONCLUSION To our knowledge, this is the first report on the distribution survey of flea species infesting dogs in Korea and the first report of C. orientis infesting a dog in Korea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyu-Sung Ahn
- Department of Parasitology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chonnam National University, 77 Yongbong-ro, Buk-ku, Gwangju, 61186, Republic of Korea
| | - Shin-Eui Huh
- Department of Parasitology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chonnam National University, 77 Yongbong-ro, Buk-ku, Gwangju, 61186, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang-Woo Seol
- Department of Parasitology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chonnam National University, 77 Yongbong-ro, Buk-ku, Gwangju, 61186, Republic of Korea
| | - Ha-Jung Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chonnam National University, 77 Yongbong-ro, Buk-ku, Gwangju, 61186, Republic of Korea
| | - Kuk-Hyun Suh
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chonnam National University, 77 Yongbong-ro, Buk-ku, Gwangju, 61186, Republic of Korea
| | - SungShik Shin
- Department of Parasitology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chonnam National University, 77 Yongbong-ro, Buk-ku, Gwangju, 61186, Republic of Korea.
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18
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Rust MK. The Biology and Ecology of Cat Fleas and Advancements in Their Pest Management: A Review. INSECTS 2017; 8:E118. [PMID: 29077073 PMCID: PMC5746801 DOI: 10.3390/insects8040118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2017] [Revised: 10/18/2017] [Accepted: 10/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
The cat flea Ctenocephalides felis felis (Bouché) is the most important ectoparasite of domestic cats and dogs worldwide. It has been two decades since the last comprehensive review concerning the biology and ecology of C. f. felis and its management. Since then there have been major advances in our understanding of the diseases associated with C. f. felis and their implications for humans and their pets. Two rickettsial diseases, flea-borne spotted fever and murine typhus, have been identified in domestic animal populations and cat fleas. Cat fleas are the primary vector of Bartonella henselae (cat scratch fever) with the spread of the bacteria when flea feces are scratched in to bites or wounds. Flea allergic dermatitis (FAD) common in dogs and cats has been successfully treated and tapeworm infestations prevented with a number of new products being used to control fleas. There has been a continuous development of new products with novel chemistries that have focused on increased convenience and the control of fleas and other arthropod ectoparasites. The possibility of feral animals serving as potential reservoirs for flea infestations has taken on additional importance because of the lack of effective environmental controls in recent years. Physiological insecticide resistance in C. f. felis continues to be of concern, especially because pyrethroid resistance now appears to be more widespread. In spite of their broad use since 1994, there is little evidence that resistance has developed to many of the on-animal or oral treatments such as fipronil, imidacloprid or lufenuron. Reports of the perceived lack of performance of some of the new on-animal therapies have been attributed to compliance issues and their misuse. Consequentially, there is a continuing need for consumer awareness of products registered for cats and dogs and their safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael K Rust
- Department of Entomology, University of California Riverside, Riverside, CA 92521, USA.
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Gálvez R, Musella V, Descalzo MA, Montoya A, Checa R, Marino V, Martín O, Cringoli G, Rinaldi L, Miró G. Modelling the current distribution and predicted spread of the flea species Ctenocephalides felis infesting outdoor dogs in Spain. Parasit Vectors 2017; 10:428. [PMID: 28927433 PMCID: PMC6389158 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-017-2357-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2017] [Accepted: 08/30/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The cat flea, Ctenocephalides felis, is the most prevalent flea species detected on dogs and cats in Europe and other world regions. The status of flea infestation today is an evident public health concern because of their cosmopolitan distribution and the flea-borne diseases transmission. This study determines the spatial distribution of the cat flea C. felis infesting dogs in Spain. Using geospatial tools, models were constructed based on entomological data collected from dogs during the period 2013–2015. Bioclimatic zones, covering broad climate and vegetation ranges, were surveyed in relation to their size. Results The models builded were obtained by negative binomial regression of several environmental variables to show impacts on C. felis infestation prevalence: land cover, bioclimatic zone, mean summer and autumn temperature, mean summer rainfall, distance to urban settlement and normalized difference vegetation index. In the face of climate change, we also simulated the future distributions of C. felis for the global climate model (GCM) “GFDL-CM3” and for the representative concentration pathway RCP45, which predicts their spread in the country. Conclusions Predictive models for current climate conditions indicated the widespread distribution of C. felis throughout Spain, mainly across the central northernmost zone of the mainland. Under predicted conditions of climate change, the risk of spread was slightly greater, especially in the north and central peninsula, than for the current situation. The data provided will be useful for local veterinarians to design effective strategies against flea infestation and the pathogens transmitted by these arthropods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosa Gálvez
- Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Avda. Puerta de Hierro s/n, Madrid, Spain
| | - Vicenzo Musella
- Department of Health Sciences, Magna Græcia University, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Miguel A Descalzo
- Unidad de Investigación, Academia Española de Dermatología y Venereología, Calle Ferraz, 100, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Montoya
- Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Avda. Puerta de Hierro s/n, Madrid, Spain
| | - Rocío Checa
- Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Avda. Puerta de Hierro s/n, Madrid, Spain
| | - Valentina Marino
- Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Avda. Puerta de Hierro s/n, Madrid, Spain
| | - Oihane Martín
- Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Avda. Puerta de Hierro s/n, Madrid, Spain
| | - Giuseppe Cringoli
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Regional Centre for Monitoring of Parasitic Diseases, Campania Region, Naples, Italy
| | - Laura Rinaldi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Regional Centre for Monitoring of Parasitic Diseases, Campania Region, Naples, Italy
| | - Guadalupe Miró
- Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Avda. Puerta de Hierro s/n, Madrid, Spain.
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Zouari S, Khrouf F, M'ghirbi Y, Bouattour A. First molecular detection and characterization of zoonotic Bartonella species in fleas infesting domestic animals in Tunisia. Parasit Vectors 2017; 10:436. [PMID: 28927427 PMCID: PMC5606017 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-017-2372-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2017] [Accepted: 09/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Bartonellosis is an emerging vector-borne disease caused by different intracellular bacteria of the genus Bartonella (Rhizobiales: Bartonellaceae) that is transmitted primarily by blood-sucking arthropods such as sandflies, ticks and fleas. In Tunisia, there are no data available identifying the vectors of Bartonella spp. In our research, we used molecular methods to detect and characterize Bartonella species circulating in fleas collected from domestic animals in several of the country’s bioclimatic areas. Results A total of 2178 fleas were collected from 5 cats, 27 dogs, 34 sheep, and 41 goats at 22 sites located in Tunisia’s five bioclimatic zones. The fleas were identified as: 1803 Ctenocephalides felis (83%) (Siphonaptera: Pulicidae), 266 C. canis (12%) and 109 Pulex irritans (5%) (Siphonaptera: Pulicidae). Using conventional PCR, we screened the fleas for the presence of Bartonella spp., targeting the citrate synthase gene (gltA). Bartonella DNA was detected in 14% (121/866) of the tested flea pools [estimated infection rate (EIR) per 2 specimens: 0.072, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.060–0.086]. The Bartonella infection rate per pool was broken down as follows: 55% (65/118; EIR per 2 specimens: 0.329, 95% CI: 0.262–0.402) in C. canis; 23.5% (8/34; EIR per 2 specimens: 0.125, 95% CI: 0.055–0.233) in P. irritans and 6.7% (48/714; EIR per 2 specimens: 0.032, 95% CI: 0.025–0.045) in C. felis. Infection rates, which varied significantly by bioclimatic zone (P < 0.0001), were highest in the humid areas. By sequencing, targeting the gltA gene and the 16S–23S rRNA Intergenic Spacer Regions (ITS), we identified three Bartonella zoonotic species: B. elizabethae, B. henselae, B. clarridgeiae, as well as uncharacterized Bartonella genotypes. Conclusions To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time that fleas in Tunisia have been shown to carry zoonotic species of Bartonella. The dog flea, Ctenocephalides canis, should be considered the main potential vector of Bartonella. Our study not only provides new information about this vector, but also offers a public health update: medical practitioners and farmers in Tunisia should be apprised of the presence of Bartonella in fleas and implement preventive measures. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13071-017-2372-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saba Zouari
- Université de Tunis El Manar, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Laboratoire d'Epidémiologie et de Microbiologie Vétérinaire LR11IPT03, Service d'Entomologie Médicale, 1002, Tunis-Belvédère, Tunisie
| | - Fatma Khrouf
- Université de Tunis El Manar, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Laboratoire d'Epidémiologie et de Microbiologie Vétérinaire LR11IPT03, Service d'Entomologie Médicale, 1002, Tunis-Belvédère, Tunisie
| | - Youmna M'ghirbi
- Université de Tunis El Manar, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Laboratoire d'Epidémiologie et de Microbiologie Vétérinaire LR11IPT03, Service d'Entomologie Médicale, 1002, Tunis-Belvédère, Tunisie
| | - Ali Bouattour
- Université de Tunis El Manar, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Laboratoire d'Epidémiologie et de Microbiologie Vétérinaire LR11IPT03, Service d'Entomologie Médicale, 1002, Tunis-Belvédère, Tunisie.
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Bergmann M, Englert T, Stuetzer B, Hawley JR, Lappin MR, Hartmann K. Prevalence of Bartonella
species infections in cats in Southern Germany. Vet Rec 2017; 180:325. [DOI: 10.1136/vr.103843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/02/2017] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- M. Bergmann
- Clinic of Small Animal Medicine; Centre for Clinical Veterinary Medicine, LMU Munich; Veterinaerstrasse 13 Munich 80539 Germany
| | - T. Englert
- Clinic of Small Animal Medicine; Centre for Clinical Veterinary Medicine, LMU Munich; Veterinaerstrasse 13 Munich 80539 Germany
| | - B. Stuetzer
- Clinic of Small Animal Medicine; Centre for Clinical Veterinary Medicine, LMU Munich; Veterinaerstrasse 13 Munich 80539 Germany
| | - J. R. Hawley
- Center for Companion Animal Studies; Department of Clinical Sciences; College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University; Fort Collins Colorado USA
| | - M. R. Lappin
- Center for Companion Animal Studies; Department of Clinical Sciences; College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University; Fort Collins Colorado USA
| | - K. Hartmann
- Clinic of Small Animal Medicine; Centre for Clinical Veterinary Medicine, LMU Munich; Veterinaerstrasse 13 Munich 80539 Germany
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Geurden T, Becskei C, Farkas R, Lin D, Rugg D. Efficacy and safety of a new spot-on formulation of selamectin plus sarolaner in the treatment of naturally occurring flea and tick infestations in cats presented as veterinary patients in Europe. Vet Parasitol 2017; 238 Suppl 1:S12-S17. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2017.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2016] [Revised: 03/04/2017] [Accepted: 03/08/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Gálvez R, Montoya A, Checa R, Martín O, Marino V, Miró G. Flea species infesting dogs in Spain: updated spatial and seasonal distribution patterns. MEDICAL AND VETERINARY ENTOMOLOGY 2017; 31:107-113. [PMID: 27790728 DOI: 10.1111/mve.12204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2016] [Revised: 08/08/2016] [Accepted: 08/11/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
This entomological survey examines the spatial and seasonal distribution patterns of flea species infesting dogs in Spain. Bioclimatic zones covering broad climate and vegetation ranges were surveyed according to size. In a cross-sectional spatial survey carried out from late May 2013 to mid-July 2015, 1084 dogs from 42 different locations were examined. A total of 3032 fleas were collected and identified as belonging to the following species: Ctenocephalides felis (Siphonaptera: Pulicidae) (81.7%, 2476 fleas); Ctenocephalides canis (11.4%, 347 fleas); Pulex irritans (Siphonaptera: Pulicidae) (6.9%, 208 fleas), and Echidnophaga gallinacea (Siphonaptera: Pulicidae) (0.03%, one flea). Variables observed to have effects on flea abundance were animal weight, sex, length of hair and habitat. In the seasonal survey conducted from June 2014 to June 2015, 1014 fleas were collected from 239 dogs at 30 veterinary practices across Spain. Peaks in C. felis abundance were observed in early summer and late autumn, whereas high numbers of P. irritans and C. canis were recorded in autumn. Numbers of fleas detected in winter were low overall. Based on these findings, the present study updates the spatial and seasonal distributions of flea species in Spain and assesses the impacts of host and habitat variables on flea infestation.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Gálvez
- Grupo de Investigación Epicontrol-Carnívoros, Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - A Montoya
- Grupo de Investigación Epicontrol-Carnívoros, Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - R Checa
- Grupo de Investigación Epicontrol-Carnívoros, Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - O Martín
- Grupo de Investigación Epicontrol-Carnívoros, Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - V Marino
- Grupo de Investigación Epicontrol-Carnívoros, Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - G Miró
- Grupo de Investigación Epicontrol-Carnívoros, Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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Poo-Muñoz DA, Elizondo-Patrone C, Escobar LE, Astorga F, Bermúdez SE, Martínez-Valdebenito C, Abarca K, Medina-Vogel G. Fleas and Ticks in Carnivores From a Domestic-Wildlife Interface: Implications for Public Health and Wildlife. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2016; 53:1433-1443. [PMID: 27539151 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjw124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2016] [Accepted: 07/16/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Fleas and ticks are parasites of wild and domestic mammals, and can be vectors of several pathogens. In rural areas, domestic carnivores such as the domestic dog (Canis lupus familiaris L.), may act as a "bridge" between natural areas and human settlements where ectoparasites can be used as a metric of such link. The aim of this study was to identify fleas, ticks, and Rickettsia spp., collected from domestic and wild carnivores in a natural reserve and surrounding human settlements in Central Chile, using morphological keys and molecular analysis. We surveyed 170 households from which 107 dogs and eight cats were sampled. From the natural reserve, we sampled two chilla foxes (Pseudalopex griseus Gray), two lesser grison (Galictis cuja Molina), three kodkods (Leopardus guigna Molina), and four dogs. From dogs, we collected Ctenocephalides felis Bouché, Ctenocephalides canis Curtis, Pulex irritans L., and Rhipicephalus sanguineus s.l. Latreille; C. felis was the most frequent ectoparasite. Cats were infested only by C. felis and Rh. sanguineus s.l. From wild carnivores, we obtained C. canis and P. irritans, the latter being most frequent. Molecular analysis of P. irritans detected 10 haplotypes and two main clades, which tended to separate fleas from wild and domestic hosts. Molecular analysis of ompA and ompB genes confirmed the presence of Rickettsia felis in fleas collected from owned dogs and cats, which could represent a potential risk factor of R. felis transmission in the area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela A Poo-Muñoz
- Facultad de Ecología y Recursos Naturales, Universidad Andres Bello, Av. República 252, Santiago, Chile (; ; ; )
- Escuela de Medicina Veterinaria, Universidad Santo Tomás Sede Temuco, Manuel Rodríguez 060, Temuco, Chile
| | - Claudia Elizondo-Patrone
- Facultad de Ecología y Recursos Naturales, Universidad Andres Bello, Av. República 252, Santiago, Chile (; ; ; )
- Genética de la Conservación-Departamento de Biodiversidad y Genética -IIBCE- MEC, Av. Italia 3318, Montevideo 11600, Uruguay
| | - Luis E Escobar
- Minnesota Aquatic Invasive Species Research Center, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN 55108, USA
- Department of Veterinary Population Medicine, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN 55108, USA
| | - Francisca Astorga
- Facultad de Ecología y Recursos Naturales, Universidad Andres Bello, Av. República 252, Santiago, Chile (; ; ; )
| | - Sergio E Bermúdez
- Departamento de Investigación en Entomología Médica, Instituto Conmemorativo Gorgas de Estudios de la Salud, Panamá
| | - Constanza Martínez-Valdebenito
- Departamento de Enfermedades Infecciosas e Inmunología, Facultad de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile (; )
| | - Katia Abarca
- Departamento de Enfermedades Infecciosas e Inmunología, Facultad de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile (; )
| | - Gonzalo Medina-Vogel
- Facultad de Ecología y Recursos Naturales, Universidad Andres Bello, Av. República 252, Santiago, Chile (; ; ; )
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Shukullari E, Rapti D, Visser M, Pfister K, Rehbein S. Parasites and vector-borne diseases in client-owned dogs in Albania: infestation with arthropod ectoparasites. Parasitol Res 2016; 116:399-407. [PMID: 27796564 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-016-5302-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2016] [Accepted: 10/17/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
To establish the diversity and seasonality of ectoparasite infestation in client-owned dogs in Albania, 602 dogs visiting four small animal clinics in Tirana from March 2010 to April 2011 inclusive were examined for ectoparasites by full body search and total body comb. In addition, ear swab specimens collected from all dogs and scrapings taken from skin lesions suspicious of mite infestation were examined for parasitic mites. Overall, 93 dogs (15.4 %, 95%CI 12.6-18.6) were demonstrated to be infested, and nine species of ectoparasites were identified: Ixodes ricinus, 0.8 %; Rhipicephalus sanguineus s. l., 8.1 %; Demodex canis, 0.2 %; Sarcoptes scabiei, 0.7 %; Otodectes cynotis, 2.8 %; Ctenocephalides canis, 4.8 %; Ctenocephalides felis, 3.0 %; Pulex irritans, 0.2 %; and Trichodectes canis, 0.2 %. Single and multiple infestations with up to four species of ectoparasites concurrently were recorded in 67 (11.1 %, 95%CI 8.7-13.9) and 26 dogs (4.3 %, 95%CI 2.8-6.3), respectively. On univariate analysis, the category of breed (pure breed dogs vs. mixed-breed dogs), the dog's purpose (pet, hunting dog, working dog), the housing environment (mainly indoors/indoors with regular outside walking vs. yard plus kennel/run), the history of ectoparasiticide treatment and the season of examination were identified as significant (p < 0.05) factors predisposing dogs to various ectoparasites, while the variables dog's age, gender, the dog's habitat (city, suburban, rural) and the presence/absence of other pets were not significant predictors. Multivariate logistic regression analysis for factors associated with overall ectoparasitism revealed that dogs treated with ectoparasiticides at least once per year (odds ratio [OR] = 0.24; p < 0.001) had a significantly lower risk of infestation compared with dogs not treated against ectoparasite infestation. Dogs examined during spring, summer and autumn (OR = 7.08, 7.43 and 2.48, respectively; all p < 0.001) had a significantly higher risk of infestation than dogs examined during winter. By providing basic data on the infestation with ectoparasites in client-owned, veterinary-cared-for dogs from Albania for the first time, the results of this survey should emphasize the need of an increase of attention to ectoparasites in dogs by both veterinarians and dog owners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enstela Shukullari
- Fakulteti i Mjekësisë Veterinare, Universiteti Bujqësor, Kodër Kamëz, Tirana, Albania
| | - Dhimitër Rapti
- Fakulteti i Mjekësisë Veterinare, Universiteti Bujqësor, Kodër Kamëz, Tirana, Albania
| | - Martin Visser
- Merial GmbH, Kathrinenhof Research Center, Walchenseestr. 8-12, 83101, Rohrdorf, Germany
| | - Kurt Pfister
- Institute of Comparative Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Leopoldstr. 5, 80802, Munich, Germany
| | - Steffen Rehbein
- Merial GmbH, Kathrinenhof Research Center, Walchenseestr. 8-12, 83101, Rohrdorf, Germany.
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Prevalence of ectoparasites in owned dogs in Kerman city, southeast of Iran. J Parasit Dis 2016; 40:454-8. [PMID: 27413320 DOI: 10.1007/s12639-014-0525-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2014] [Accepted: 08/11/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study aimed to investigate the intensity and distribution of natural infestation of ectoparasites in owned dogs during June to November 2011 in Kerman city, southeast of Iran. One hundred two domestic dogs (63 males, 39 females) with age ranged between 45 days to 13 years were examined for ectoparasites infestation including (tick, lice, flea and mite) in Kerman city. Detailed questionnaire about grooming and bathing interval, keeping place (outdoor, indoor) and purpose of keeping were obtained from owners. After complete skin examination, animals hairs were combed and their skin rubbed with a piece of cotton soaked in alcohol to remove the ectoparasites in apparently normal cases, and deep skin scratching were prepared from all type of lesions in symptomatic dogs. A total number of 149 ectoparasites were collected. The most common ectoparasite was Rhipicephalus sanguineus tick, which infested 27 of the 102 dogs (26.47 %). Ctenocephalides canis was identified on two dogs (1.96 %) and 5 dogs infested with Hippobosca spp (4.9 %) that the highest infestation rate was seen in September (14.2 %). Studied samples were routinely checked for clinical symptoms. Itching and scratching lesions were the only reported signs which seen in flea infested dogs (6.4 %) and other infested dogs (93.5 %) had no clinical symptoms. Ectoparasites were significantly higher in outdoor dogs in compare with indoor group and the most tick infested location was ear (61.3 %) (P < 0.05).
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Six RH, Geurden T, Packianathan R, Colgan S, Everett WR, Grace S, Hodge A, Mahabir SP, Myers MR, Slootmans N, Davis K. Evaluation of the effectiveness of a novel oral formulation of sarolaner (Simparica™) for the treatment and control of fleas on dogs. Vet Parasitol 2016; 222:18-22. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2016.02.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2015] [Revised: 12/23/2015] [Accepted: 02/12/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Fankhauser B, Dumont P, Halos L, Hunter JS, Kunkle B, Everett WR, Chester TS, Fourie JJ, Soll MD. Efficacy of a new combination of fipronil and permethrin against Ctenocephalides felis flea infestation in dogs. Parasit Vectors 2015; 8:62. [PMID: 25630582 PMCID: PMC4322555 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-015-0687-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2015] [Accepted: 01/21/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Five studies were conducted to evaluate the effect of a new combination of fipronil and permethrin on cat fleas, Ctenocephalides felis, when applied to dogs, including dogs that underwent water exposure or shampooing. METHODS In each study, 16 dogs were allocated to two groups. Each dog was infested with 100 unfed adult fleas on Days -1, 7, 14, 21 and 28. Eight dogs were treated with a new topical spot-on formulation containing 6.76% w/v fipronil + 50.48% w/v permethrinon Day 0; and eight dogs served as untreated controls. Twenty-four or 48 h after treatment or subsequent infestation, each dog was combed to remove and count live fleas. In addition, the dogs were subjected to different levels of water or shampoo exposure. In study 1, dogs were not subjected to any water exposure or shampooing; in study 2, dogs were water immersed twice during the month on Days 10 and 24; in study 3, dogs were water immersed three times on Days 10, 17 and 24; and in studies 4 and 5, dogs were shampooed once on Day 17. RESULTS All groups of dogs administered a single topical treatment with a combination of fipronil and permethrin had significantly (p < 0.005) lower flea counts than untreated controls 24 h and 48 h post-treatment or post-infestation, regardless of whether they underwent water exposure/shampooing or not. The reductions in C. felis counts were between 98.4% and 100% at all time points in all studies. CONCLUSIONS The new topical spot-on formulation of fipronil and permethrin maintains a high level of protection of dogs against C. felis flea infestations even when the dogs are exposed to environmental factors that are believed to adversely affect efficacy, such as water exposure or shampooing.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Pascal Dumont
- Merial S.A.S, 29 avenue Tony Garnier, Lyon, 69007, France.
| | - Lénaïg Halos
- Merial S.A.S, 29 avenue Tony Garnier, Lyon, 69007, France.
| | - James S Hunter
- Merial Limited, 3239 Satellite Blvd, Duluth, GA, 30096, USA.
| | - Bruce Kunkle
- Merial Limited, 3239 Satellite Blvd, Duluth, GA, 30096, USA.
| | | | | | - Josephus J Fourie
- ClinVet International (Pty) Ltd, PO Box 11186, Bloemfontein , 9321 Universitas, South Africa.
| | - Mark D Soll
- Merial Limited, 3239 Satellite Blvd, Duluth, GA, 30096, USA.
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Beugnet F, Soll M, Bouhsira E, Franc M. Sustained speed of kill and repellency of a novel combination of fipronil and permethrin against Ctenocephalides canis flea infestations in dogs. Parasit Vectors 2015; 8:52. [PMID: 25622656 PMCID: PMC4316392 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-015-0680-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2015] [Accepted: 01/21/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ctenocephalides canis is a major flea species in dogs in several European countries. The new topical combination of fipronil and permethrin (Frontline Tri-Act/Frontect, Merial) has been developed to control fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, sandflies and biting flies on dogs. Considering the repellent and insecticidal effects of permethrin and the insecticidal effect of fipronil, the efficacy of the combination against fleas including C. canis was expected to be rapid. The study was conducted to measure the 1-hour, 6-hour and 24-hour efficacy, as well as the repellent activity, of the fipronil-permethrin combination on treated versus untreated dogs. METHODS 12 Beagle dogs were randomly allocated to one of two groups based on pre-treatment live flea counts. Dogs in Group 1 remained untreated whereas dogs in Group 2 were treated once on Day 0. Each dog was infested with 100 unfed adult C. canis on Days 2, 7, 14, 21 and 28. Dogs were combed for fleas 1 and 6 h after each infestation. Following this examination, fleas remaining on the liner at the bottom of each cage were collected and counted. All live fleas were placed back on each dog after the 1- and 6-hour counts. A comb-count was performed at 24 h post infestation on all dogs. RESULTS Treated dogs had significantly (p ≤ 0.01) lower flea counts than untreated dogs at every time point. The percent efficacy was ≥99.1% at 6 and 24 h after each weekly challenge up to the month. The 1-hour counts also showed good efficacy of 96.5%, 98.9%, 92.0%, 70.2% and 55.7% on Days 2, 7, 14, 21 and 28, respectively. The repellent efficacy, assessed on the liners at 1 h, was 86.5%, 94.9%, 79.5%, 58.4% and 43.9% on Days 2, 7, 14, 21 and 28, respectively. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates the beneficial effect of the fipronil and permethrin combination against C. canis, providing both a repellent and insecticidal effect as early as 1 h post infestation, and >99.1% efficacy calculated at 6 h during a month.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mark Soll
- Merial S.A.S., 29 Av. Tony Garnier, 69007, Lyon, France.
| | - Emilie Bouhsira
- Service de Parasitologie, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire de Toulouse, 23 Chemin des Capelles, 31076, Toulouse, France.
| | - Michel Franc
- Service de Parasitologie, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire de Toulouse, 23 Chemin des Capelles, 31076, Toulouse, France.
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Ibarra-Velarde F, Vera-Montenegro Y, Ambía Medina J, Sánchez-Peralta K, Galván PO. Comparison of Two Pour-On Formulations of Ivermectin against Gastrointestinal Worms, Fleas and Lice in Naturally Infected Stray Dogs. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015. [DOI: 10.4236/pp.2015.63018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Knaus M, Rapti D, Shukullari E, Kusi I, Postoli R, Xhaxhiu D, Silaghi C, Hamel D, Visser M, Winter R, Rehbein S. Characterisation of ecto- and endoparasites in domestic cats from Tirana, Albania. Parasitol Res 2014; 113:3361-71. [DOI: 10.1007/s00436-014-3999-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2014] [Accepted: 06/16/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Beugnet F, Bourdeau P, Chalvet-Monfray K, Cozma V, Farkas R, Guillot J, Halos L, Joachim A, Losson B, Miró G, Otranto D, Renaud M, Rinaldi L. Parasites of domestic owned cats in Europe: co-infestations and risk factors. Parasit Vectors 2014; 7:291. [PMID: 24965063 PMCID: PMC4082530 DOI: 10.1186/1756-3305-7-291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2014] [Accepted: 06/03/2014] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Domestic cats can be infested by a large range of parasite species. Parasitic infestations may cause very different clinical signs. Endoparasites and ectoparasites are rarely explored in the same study and therefore multiparasitism is poorly documented. The present survey aimed to improve knowledge of the prevalence and risk factors associated with ecto- and endoparasite infestations in owned cats in Europe. METHODS From March 2012 to May 2013, 1519 owned cats were included in a multicenter study conducted in 9 veterinary faculties throughout Europe (Austria, Belgium, France, Hungary, Italy, Romania and Spain). For each cat, ectoparasites were checked by combing of the coat surface associated with otoscopic evaluation and microscopy on cerumen samples. Endoparasites were identified by standard coproscopical examinations performed on fresh faecal samples. Risk factors and their influence on parasitism were evaluated by univariate analysis followed by a multivariate statistical analysis (including center of examination, age, outdoor access, multipet status, and frequency of treatments as main criteria) with logistic regression models. RESULTS Overall, 50.7% of cats resulted positive for at least one internal or one external parasite species. Ectoparasites were found in 29.6% of cats (CI95 27.3-32.0%). Otodectes cynotis was the most frequently identified species (17.4%), followed by fleas (15.5%). Endoparasites were identified in 35.1% of the cats (CI95 32.7-35.7%), including gastro-intestinal helminths in 25.7% (CI95 23.5-28.0), respiratory nematodes in 5.5% (CI95 4.2-7.0%) and protozoans in 13.5% (CI95 11.8-15.3%). Toxocara cati was the most commonly diagnosed endoparasite (19.7%, CI95 17.8-21.8%). Co-infestation with endoparasites and ectoparasites was found in 14.0% of the cats, and 11.9% harbored both ectoparasites and gastro-intestinal helminths.Age, outdoor access, living with other pets, and anthelmintic or insecticide treatments were significantly associated with the prevalence of various parasites. CONCLUSIONS This survey demonstrates that parasitism is not a rare event in European owned cat populations. The prevalence of multi-parasitism is significantly greater than expected by chance and hence there is tendency for some individual cats to be more prone to infestation by both endo- and ectoparasites due to common risk factors.
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Beugnet F, Labuschagne M, Fourie J, Jacques G, Farkas R, Cozma V, Halos L, Hellmann K, Knaus M, Rehbein S. Occurrence of Dipylidium caninum in fleas from client-owned cats and dogs in Europe using a new PCR detection assay. Vet Parasitol 2014; 205:300-6. [PMID: 24986432 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2014.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2014] [Revised: 06/04/2014] [Accepted: 06/05/2014] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Ctenocephalides fleas are not only the most prevalent ectoparasites of dogs and cats but also the intermediate host of the cestode Dipylidium caninum. Due to the poor sensitivity of coproscopy to diagnose cat and dog infestation by Dipylidium, few epidemiological data are available on its prevalence among pet populations. A new PCR method was developed to specifically identify D. caninum rDNA inside single fleas. The PCR test was then applied to 5529 fleas of Ctenocephalides genus, 2701 Ctenocephalides felis fleas (1969 collected on 435 cats and 732 on 178 dogs) and 2828 Ctenocephalides canis fleas collected from 396 dogs. Precisely, 4.37% of cats were infested by a flea population infected with D. caninum. Out of the 1969 C. felis from cats, 2.23% were found to be infected with Dipylidium. From the 396 dogs infested with C. canis, 9.1%% were infested with the Dipylidium infected fleas, which is significantly higher than the observation made in cats (p=0.03). Moreover, 3.1% of the C. canis fleas were found to be infected with Dipylidium, which is not significantly different than in C. felis. Looking at the number of infected fleas in the positive samples (at least one PCR positive flea in a sample), the infestation rate in samples was varied from 3 to 100% with an average of 19.7% which is in favour of easy and regular Dipylidium reinfestations of both cats and dogs in households. For the first time, the spread of D. caninum between fleas and dogs and cats is confirmed throughout Europe.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Michel Labuschagne
- ClinVet,Box 11186. Universitas, Bloemfontein, 9321, Republic of South Africa
| | - Josephus Fourie
- ClinVet,Box 11186. Universitas, Bloemfontein, 9321, Republic of South Africa
| | - Guillot Jacques
- Ecole Vétérinaire de Maisons-Alfort, 94704 Maisons-Alfort Cédex, France
| | - Robert Farkas
- Szent István University, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Budapest, Hungary
| | | | - Lénaïg Halos
- Merial S.A.S., 29 Av Tony Garnier, 69007 Lyon, France
| | - Klaus Hellmann
- Klifovet AG, Geyerspergerstr. 27, 80689 München, Germany
| | - Martin Knaus
- Merial GmbH, Kathrinenhof Research Center, Walchenseestr. 8-12, 83101 Rohrdorf, Germany
| | - Steffen Rehbein
- Merial GmbH, Kathrinenhof Research Center, Walchenseestr. 8-12, 83101 Rohrdorf, Germany
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Halos L, Beugnet F, Cardoso L, Farkas R, Franc M, Guillot J, Pfister K, Wall R. Flea control failure? Myths and realities. Trends Parasitol 2014; 30:228-33. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2014.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2014] [Revised: 02/24/2014] [Accepted: 02/24/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Dumont P, Gale B, Chester TS, Larsen DL. Curative and preventive efficacy of orally administered afoxolaner against Ctenocephalides canis infestation in dogs. Vet Parasitol 2014; 201:212-5. [PMID: 24631503 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2014.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The efficacy of orally administered afoxolaner against adult dog fleas, Ctenocephalides canis, was evaluated in a controlled, blinded study. A total of 32 dogs were infested with 100 adult unfed fleas approximately 24h prior to treatment and then at weekly intervals for 5 weeks after treatment. Live fleas were counted upon removal at 12h (for 16 dogs) and 24h (for the remaining 16 dogs) after treatment (for counts performed the first week) or after infestation (for counts performed on subsequent weeks). In addition, flea eggs were collected from each pen and counted for the dogs with flea removal at 24h. Dosing of individual dogs was achieved using a combination of the chewable tablets to be as close as possible to the minimum effective dose of 2.5mg/kg. The percent efficacy of the afoxolaner treatment was ≥ 99.0% for all 24-h flea counts. For flea counts performed 12h after treatment or infestations, the percent efficacy was ≥ 94.1% up to Day 21. After Day 1, no flea eggs were recovered from the afoxolaner treated group, providing 100% reduction in numbers of flea eggs recovered versus untreated control group. This study confirmed that a single oral treatment with afoxolaner provided excellent efficacy against infestations by C. canis within 12-24h after treatment, prevented re-infestations, and completely prevented egg production from new flea infestations for up to 5 weeks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pascal Dumont
- Merial SAS, 29 Avenue Tony Garnier, 69007 Lyon, France.
| | - Boyd Gale
- Charles River Laboratories, Carrentrilla, Ballina, Mayo County, Ireland
| | | | - Diane L Larsen
- Merial Limited, 3239 Satellite Boulevard, Duluth, GA 30096, USA
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Jamshidi S, Maazi N, Ranjbar-Bahadori S, Rezaei M, Morakabsaz P, Hosseininejad M. A survey of ectoparasite infestation in dogs in Tehran, Iran. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 21:326-9. [PMID: 23070452 DOI: 10.1590/s1984-29612012000300030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2011] [Accepted: 03/14/2012] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
This survey was conducted to identify and estimate the frequencies of ectoparasites of dogs in Tehran, Iran. A total of 143 dogs attended at the Small Animal Hospital of the Veterinary School, the University of Tehran, were examined for the presence of ectoparasites and dermatological lesions. Ectoparasite specimens and blood samples were sent to parasitology and hematology laboratories, respectively. Ticks were the most frequent ectoparasite (36.4%, 52/143), followed by fleas (29.4%, 42/143), mites (25.9%, 37/143), and lice (8.4%, 12/143). Mixed infestations with two or more ectoparasites were detected in eight dogs. Rhipicephalus bursa was the most frequent ectoparasite in spring and summer. Ectoparasitic infestations were recorded mainly in large breeds and juvenile animals. Eosinophilia was more observed in dogs infested with Sarcoptes scabiei. The most common clinical sign, skin pruritus, was associated with mite and lice infestations. These results indicate that the tick R. bursa was the most prominent species of ectoparasite found in the evaluated group, followed by Ctenocephalides canis and S. scabiei var canis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahram Jamshidi
- Department of Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.
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Costa-Junior LM, Rembeck K, Mendonça FLDM, Azevedo SC, Passos LMF, Ribeiro MFB. Occurrence of ectoparasites on dogs in rural regions of the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 21:237-42. [PMID: 23070433 DOI: 10.1590/s1984-29612012000300011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2011] [Accepted: 04/14/2012] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The present study examined occurrences of ectoparasites and identified them on dogs in rural regions in Brazil, and assessed the influence of climate on these parasites. Ectoparasites were randomly collected from 194 dogs living on farms located in Lavras (n = 92) and Nanuque (n = 102) during the dry season. During the subsequent rainy season, the same dogs in Lavras (n = 71) and Nanuque (n = 66) were resampled. During the experiment, fleas, ticks, lice and fly larvae were collected. The flea species Ctenocephalides felis was the most common ectoparasite collected from these dogs. The main tick species that infested the dogs in rural areas of Nanuque and Lavras was Amblyomma cajennense. In Lavras, the dogs had high levels of flea infestation (80.4 and 88.7% in the dry and rainy seasons, respectively) and low levels of tick infestation (19.6 and 28.2% in the dry and rainy seasons, respectively), without any significant differences in infestation rates between the seasons. In Nanuque, moderate levels of flea infestation (68.6 and 43.9% in the dry and rainy seasons, respectively) and A. cajennense (65.7 and 47.0% in the dry and rainy seasons, respectively) were observed, with significantly lower prevalence in the rainy season (p < 0.05). The presence of ectoparasites was evident at both times of the year, but the different temperatures may have influenced the occurrences of parasites in Lavras and Nanuque.
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Gracia MJ, Calvete C, Estrada R, Castillo JA, Peribáñez MA, Lucientes J. Survey of flea infestation in cats in Spain. MEDICAL AND VETERINARY ENTOMOLOGY 2013; 27:175-180. [PMID: 23600822 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2915.2012.01027.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Fleas are a common cause of feline skin disorders as well as vectors of zoonotic diseases. This study evaluated the flea species infesting domestic cats in Spain and assessed factors influencing their distribution. Fleas from 217 cats from 57 localities in Spain were identified and associations between abundance, and host-dependent, host habitat and environmental factors were examined. Variations in infracommunity and component community structure were also explored. Three species were present, of which Ctenocephalides felis (Bouché) (Siphonaptera: Pulicidae) was the most abundant (98.4%), followed by Ctenocephalides canis (Curtis) (1.1%) and Pulex irritans (L.) (Siphonaptera: Pulicidae) (0.5%). Overall abundance and abundances of both C. felis and C. canis were higher on farms than in apartments, but overall flea abundance and abundances of both C. felis and C. canis were lower in rural than urban environments. Overall abundance and C. felis abundance were lower during the warmest months, and mean annual rainfall was positively correlated with overall, C. felis and C. canis abundances. No relationship between the number of species per cat and any host, habitat or physiographical variable was found. Species richness was not correlated with mean annual temperature or rainfall. Flea abundance was mainly associated with host habitat and environmental factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- M J Gracia
- Departamento de Patología Animal, Parasitología y Enfermedades Parasitarias, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain.
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Cantó GJ, Guerrero RI, Olvera-Ramírez AM, Milián F, Mosqueda J, Aguilar-Tipacamú G. Prevalence of fleas and gastrointestinal parasites in free-roaming cats in central Mexico. PLoS One 2013; 8:e60744. [PMID: 23573282 PMCID: PMC3616013 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0060744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2012] [Accepted: 03/03/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of fleas and gastrointestinal parasites in free-roaming and domestic cats in central Mexico was evaluated. Three hundred and fifty eight cats captured in the street or brought in by owners to the Animal Control Center Unit, a unit of State Government, from June 2010 to May 2011, were included in the study. All cats were examined for the presence of fleas and gastrointestinal worms. One-hundred and ninety (53%) cats were infested with at least one flea species. Single infestations were observed in 106 (30%) cats and mixed infestations in 84 (23%) cats. Four species of fleas were recovered: Ctenocephalides felis in 53% of the cats, C. canis in 18%, Echidnophaga gallinacea in 7% and Pulex irritans in 1%. One-hundred and sixty three (45%) cats were infected with one or more species of gastrointestinal parasites: 48 (13%) with nematodes, 145 (40%) with cestodes, and one animal presented Moniliformis moniliformis. Prevalences and mean intensity of infection were: Physaloptera praeputialis 7 and 18; T. cati 3 and 2; Ancylostoma tubaeforme 2.5 and 2; Toxascaris leonina 0.5 and 2; Dipylidium caninum 36 and 32; Taenia taeniformis 4 and 3 and Moniliformis moniliformis 0.3 and 106, respectively. There was significant association (P<0.01), between season and ectoparasites load, more fleas were obtained in the summer and autumn than in the winter and spring; however, no statistical difference was observed for endoparasites load (P>0.05). The correlation between the total number of ectoparasites and endoparasites was not significant (r = 0.089, P = 0.094).
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Affiliation(s)
- Germinal J Cantó
- Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, Cuerpo Académico Salud Animal y Microbiología Ambiental, Queretaro, Qro, México.
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Traversa D. Fleas infesting pets in the era of emerging extra-intestinal nematodes. Parasit Vectors 2013; 6:59. [PMID: 23497511 PMCID: PMC3631128 DOI: 10.1186/1756-3305-6-59] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2012] [Accepted: 02/27/2013] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Modifications in climatic conditions, movements of hosts and goods, changes in animal phenology and human behaviour and increase of wildlife, are presently concurring in the geographic spread of vectors and cardio-respiratory nematodes, e.g. Dirofilaria immitis, Angiostrongylus vasorum, Aelurostrongylus abstrusus and Capillaria aerophila. All these factors may also influence dispersion and clinical significance of fleas, thus posing relevant challenges in those regions where other parasites are emerging at the same time. Ctenocephalides felis, Ctenocephalides canis and Pulex irritans cause discomfort, nuisance, allergic reactions, anaemia, and may transmit several pathogens, some of them are of importance for public health. The present article reviews the importance of fleas in small animal practice and their sanitary relevance for dogs, cats and humans, and discusses current control methods in the present era of emerging extra-intestinal nematodes, towards a possible changing perspective for controlling key parasites affecting companion animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donato Traversa
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy.
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Beugnet F, Delport P, Luus H, Crafford D, Fourie J. Preventive efficacy of Frontline® Combo and Certifect® against Dipylidium caninum infestation of cats and dogs using a natural flea (Ctenocephalides felis) infestation model. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 20:7. [PMID: 23419268 PMCID: PMC3718530 DOI: 10.1051/parasite/2013006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2012] [Accepted: 02/06/2013] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Two studies were performed to evaluate the effectiveness of two monthly topical anti-flea products for the prevention of Dipylidium caninum infestations in cats and dogs. A single treatment with Frontline® Combo spot-on for cats (fipronil-(S)-methoprene) and two successive monthly treatments of Certifect® for dogs (fipronil-amitraz-(S)-methoprene) were assessed for the prevention of D. caninum infestations following weekly challenges of treated cats or dogs with metacestode naturally-infected fleas. The rate of infestations using the model in cats versus dogs explains the choice of a 1-month trial in cats and a 2-month trial in dogs. The experimental flea-infection model resulted in a range of 22–53% of the fleas being infected by Dipylidium cysticercoids. The arithmetic mean flea counts recorded for the untreated cats ranged from 51.2 to 68. The geometric mean flea counts recorded for the Frontline Combo treated cats differed significantly (p < 0.05) from those of the untreated control cats on all assessment days. The arithmetic mean flea counts recorded for the untreated dogs ranged from 166.6 to 238.6. The geometric mean flea counts recorded for the Certifect treated dogs differed significantly (p < 0.001) from those of the untreated group on all assessment days. Frontline Combo treatment on cats provided ≥99.8% persistent anti-flea efficacy throughout the 30-day treatment period. In the dog study, the two Certifect treatments provided ≥97% persistent efficacy throughout the 60-day study. Based on the collection of expelled D. caninum proglottids by cats, 100% (6/6) of the control cats and 0% (0/6) of Frontline Combo treated cats were infested with D. caninum. Frontline Combo spot-on for cats was therefore 100% effective in preventing infection with D. caninum. In dogs, 7 out of the 8 control group dogs (87.5%) produced proglottids following infestation of infected fleas, whereas 0 out of 8 dogs (0%) in the treated group were infected. The infection rates of the two groups were significantly different. The percent effectiveness for the Certifect treatment group for the prevention of D. caninum infection was 100% during this 2-month trial. No treatment-related adverse events were observed in either cats or dogs during these studies.
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Parasitic infections of domestic cats, Felis catus, in western Hungary. Vet Parasitol 2012; 192:33-42. [PMID: 23211331 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2012.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2012] [Revised: 11/06/2012] [Accepted: 11/06/2012] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
During 2011, faeces from 235 owned domestic cats from a rural area in western Hungary were examined using standard coproscopical techniques. The overall prevalence of cats with endoparasites was 39.6% (95% CI 33.3-46.1). The most frequently identified faecal forms were those of ascarids (Toxocara, 17.4%; Toxascaris 7.2%), followed by those of Aelurostrongylus lungworms (14.5%), hookworms (11.1%), taeniid cestodes (4.7%), Cystoisospora coccidians (4.3%), and capillarids (3.8%). Single and multiple infections with up to five parasites concurrently were founded in 24.7% and 14.9% of the cats, respectively. Mixed endoparasite infections were recorded more frequently (p=0.0245) in cats greater than one year old compared to younger cats. Young cats (≤ 1 year) were parasitized more frequently (p<0.05) with ascarids and Cystoisospora spp. but demonstrated infections of hookworms, lungworms and taeniid cestodes less often than the older cats. Cats with taeniid infection were more likely (p<0.05) to harbour Toxocara, hookworm, Aelurostrongylus, and capillarid infections than cats without taeniid cestodes. Cats of owners who claimed the use of wormers were less frequently helminth-positive compared to cats whose owners did not use anthelmintics (21.2% vs. 44.4%; p=0.001). A subset of 115 faecal samples screened by a coproantigen ELISA revealed Giardia-specific antigen in 37.4% samples. Giardia cysts were found by immunofluorescent staining in 30 of the 43 samples tested positive for Giardia by ELISA. In addition, ectoparasites collected from 82 cats by body search and combing were identified. Fleas (1-30 per cat), biting lice (Felicola subrostratus), and ticks (1-5 per cat) were isolated from 58, 1 and 43 cats, respectively. Ctenocephalides felis was identified on all flea infested cats while single specimens of C. canis and Pulex irritans were recovered from three and two cats, respectively. All but one tick collected were adult Ixodes ricinus; the single other tick was a nymph of I. canisuga. By providing basic data on the epidemiology of parasitic infections, the results of this survey should emphasize the need of attending to parasites of cats from the veterinary point of view with respect to both appropriate diagnostics and control.
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Beugnet F, Fourie J, Chalvet-Monfray K. Comparative efficacy on dogs of a single topical treatment with fipronil/(S)-methoprene or weekly physiological hygiene shampoos against Ctenocephalides felis in a simulated flea-infested environment. Parasite 2012; 19:153-8. [PMID: 22550626 PMCID: PMC3671438 DOI: 10.1051/parasite/2012192153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Flea infestations of pets continue to persist due to the lack of knowledge of flea biology and ecology. It is not unusual that pet owners believe regular hygiene, such as shampooing their dogs can replace regular insecticidal treatment. The objective of this study was to compare in a flea simulated environment, modelling exposure similar to that found in a home, that the use of regular physiological shampoo does not control fleas adequately when compared to a long acting topical formulation. Three groups of six dogs were formed: one untreated control group, one group treated monthly with the topical formulation of fipronil/(S)-methoprene, and a third group treated weekly with a hygiene shampoo. All dogs were infested with adult unfed Ctenocephalides felis fleas (200 ± 5) on Days -28 and -21. Each animal’s sleeping box was fitted with a plastic cup mounted to the inside roof of the box. The sleeping bench of each animal was covered with a carpet to accommodate flea development. The dogs were maintained in their kennels throughout the study. In order to maintain the environmental flea challenge, C. felis pupae (100 ± 5) were placed in the plastic cup in each animal’s sleeping box on Days -14, -7, 0, 7, 14, 21, 28, 35 and 42. The dogs were combed and fleas counted weekly on Days -1, 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, 38, 45, and 51. The fleas were placed immediately back on the dogs. On Day 60, fleas were counted and removed. Flea infestations in the untreated control group at each count averaged between 46.2 and 74.2 fleas throughout the study. The average number of fleas infesting dogs was significantly different (p < 0.05) between the untreated and the two treatment groups and between the two treatment groups at all counts throughout the two months study (Days 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, 38, 45, 51 and 60). The efficacy was never below 99.1% in the fipronil/(S)-methoprene group, and efficacy in the shampoo group was never above 79.2%. Weekly shampooing in treatment group 3 was intentionally delayed after Day 42, to evaluate wether missing a weekly bath would affect the flea population. The Day 48 data indicate that forgetting or delaying a single weekly shampooing resulted in a clear increase in flea numbers and a significant decrease in efficacy from 68.2% to 34.8%. The fipronil(S)/methoprene treatment allowed a continuous control as demonstrated by the high efficacy against fleas, and also the number of flea-free dogs on seven of the nine weekly assessments, in spite of what was essentially a continuous flea challenge model.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Beugnet
- Merial, 29, avenue Tony Garnier, 69007 Lyon, France.
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Bouhsira E, Lienard E, Jacquiet P, Warin S, Kaltsatos V, Baduel L, Franc M. Efficacy of permethrin, dinotefuran and pyriproxyfen on adult fleas, flea eggs collection, and flea egg development following transplantation of mature female fleas (Ctenocephalides felis felis) from cats to dogs. Vet Parasitol 2012; 190:541-6. [PMID: 22883971 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2012.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2011] [Revised: 07/02/2012] [Accepted: 07/10/2012] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
A novel spot-on formulation combining permethrin, pyriproxifen and dinotefuran (Vectra 3D™ spot-on solution for dogs) was evaluated in adult Beagle dogs in a study to determine adulticidal efficacy, egg laying inhibition and viability of Ctenocephalides felis felis eggs (development and emergence of fleas from the collected eggs). Prior to treatment sixteen dogs were checked for their ability to keep fleas 24 hours after infestation and were allocated to treatment groups: 8 dogs served as untreated controls, and 8 dogs were treated once with the tested formulation. The spot on was administered respecting the laboratory recommendations at a dosage of 65-126 mg/kg of permethrin; 8.9-17.4 mg/kg of dinotefuran and 0.8-1.5mg/kg of pyriproxyfen. Each dog was infested with 100 adult cat fleas ready to lay eggs after 72 hours spent feeding on cats. Dogs were infested 24 hours after treatment and then weekly during 63 days. Eggs were collected and counted 24 hours after each infestation and dogs were combed 48 hours after each infestation. Fleas were counted and removed. Collected eggs were placed in incubator to study their development in larvae and into newly emerged adults. A single treatment provided 99.7% adulticidal efficacy on fleas within 48 hours after treatment and controlled re-infestations for up to 30 days (efficacy >96.20%, p<0.05). The egg laying inhibition was over 92.3% for up to 29 days (p<0.05). The adult emergence inhibition remained 100% during 8 weeks after treatment and was 99.8% nine weeks after treatment (p<0.001).
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Affiliation(s)
- E Bouhsira
- Université de Toulouse, INP, ENVT, F-3107 Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire de Toulouse, 23 chemin des capelles, 31079 Toulouse, France
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Beugnet F, Doyle V, Murray M, Chalvet-Monfray K. Comparative efficacy on dogs of a single topical treatment with the pioneer fipronil/(S)-methoprene and an oral treatment with spinosad against Ctenocephalides felis. Parasite 2012; 18:325-31. [PMID: 22091463 PMCID: PMC3677592 DOI: 10.1051/parasite/2011184325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
In the study reported here, the pioneer fipronil/(S)-methoprene topical product (FRONTLINE® PLUS, Merial Limited, Duluth, GA) was compared to the oral spinosad product (COMFORTIS® Elanco, Greenfield, IN) for efficacy against adult fleas and preventing egg production. The product presentations, doses and labelling were the one applicable in the USA. Using a standard protocol, 200 cat fleas of mixed sex were applied to dogs on Days 1, 7, 14, 21, 28, 35, and 42. Dogs were combed to remove fleas 24 hours post-infestation, the fleas were counted, collected, and then reapplied to each dog following completion of their respective count. At 48 hours post-infestation, comb counts were performed and fleas were removed. No fleas were collected from any dog in the fipronil/(S)-methoprene group at any 24 or 48 hours post-infestation assessment throughout the six weeks study, yielding a preventive efficacy of 100%. For the spinosad treatment, efficacy was 100% at 24 hours and 48 hours through Day 16, and thereafter declined. The results observed in the spinosad-treated dogs were highly variable between animals. At the 24 and 48 hours counts following the Day 21 infestation, only five of eight spinosad-treated dogs (62.5%) were flea-free. Following the Day 28 infestation, spinosad efficacy fell to 85% and 89%, for the 24 hours and 48 hours counts, and only two dogs (25%) were flea free, compared to 100% flea-free dogs in the fipronil/(S)-methoprene group. No fleas were collected from the fipronil/(S)- methoprene treated dogs throughout the entire study, therefore, no eggs were collected at any time from any dog in the group. However, in the spinosad group adult fleas were found on dogs starting on Day 21 and by Day 30, 42 eggs were collected from one dog that had 107 adult fleas counted at 48 hours. At Day 37 and Day 49, more than 100 eggs were collected from each dog in the spinosad-treated and control groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Beugnet
- Merial SAS, 29 avenue Tony Garnier, 69007 Lyon, France.
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Troyo A, Calderón-Arguedas Ó, Alvarado G, Vargas-Castro LE, Avendaño A. Ectoparasites of dogs in home environments on the Caribbean slope of Costa Rica. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE PARASITOLOGIA VETERINARIA 2012; 21:179-83. [DOI: 10.1590/s1984-29612012000200021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2011] [Accepted: 03/21/2012] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Reports on ectoparasites on dogs in Central America are scarce. The aim of this study was to identify flea, louse and tick species infesting dogs in home environments on the Caribbean slope of Costa Rica, and determine their frequency and coexistence. Ectoparasites were collected from dogs in 83 rural homes at five study sites. Specimens were identified and separated according to species. Fleas were the most common ectoparasite (G = 22,217, DF = 8, p = 0.004). Ctenocephalides felis and Pulex simulans were found in 83% and 55% of the homes with ectoparasites, respectively. Trichodectes canis (13%), Heterodoxus spiniger (10%), Rhipicephalus sanguineus (18%), Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus (5%) and Amblyomma ovale (8%) were also present. More than one species was collected in most cases (66%), and the most common combination was C. felis and P. simulans (59% of homes with fleas). The high frequency of P. simulans emphasizes the need for adequate identification. This was the first study involving different ectoparasites of dogs in Costa Rica, as well as the first report of T. canis in this country. The relative frequency and coexistence of these ectoparasites in the home environment may have implications for animal and human health.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Gilbert Alvarado
- Universidad Nacional, Costa Rica; Universidad de Costa Rica, Costa Rica; Universidad de Costa Rica, Costa Rica
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Kumsa BE, Mekonnen S. Ixodid ticks, fleas and lice infesting dogs and cats in Hawassa, southern Ethiopia. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 78:326. [PMID: 23327214 DOI: 10.4102/ojvr.v78i1.326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2011] [Revised: 05/24/2011] [Accepted: 04/19/2011] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated the prevalence, risk factors and species composition of ticks, fleas and lice infesting dogs and cats in and around Hawassa in southern Ethiopia. In total, 200 dogs and 100 cats were examined from November 2008 to April 2009. Of the dogs and cats examined, 99.5% and 91.5%, respectively, were infested with one or more species of ticks, fleas or lice. The overall prevalence was higher in dogs than in cats. A total of six different species of ectoparasites were collected and identified from dogs, but only three species from cats. Ctenocephalides felis was the predominant species amongst the animals, with a prevalence of 82.9% on dogs and 67% on cats. Other prevalent species on dogs included Ctenocephalides canis (73.8%), Heterodoxus spiniger (4%), nymphs of Amblyomma spp. (3.5%), Pulex irritans (2.5%) and Haemaphysalis leachi (0.5%). C. canis (18%) and P. irritans (6%) were also found on cats. More female than male fleas and lice were observed. The study revealed that the prevalence of fleas, ticks and lice on dogs was not significantly different between male and female animals or between young and adult dogs. However, the prevalence of these ectoparasites was significantly higher in female than in male and in adult than in young cats. The study showed that the prevalence of ectoparasites on both dogs and cats was significantly higher on animals with flea allergy dermatitis (FAD) than those without FAD, and on animals with lesions on their skin compared with those without lesions.
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Dobler G, Pfeffer M. Fleas as parasites of the family Canidae. Parasit Vectors 2011; 4:139. [PMID: 21767354 PMCID: PMC3160944 DOI: 10.1186/1756-3305-4-139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2011] [Accepted: 07/18/2011] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Historically, flea-borne diseases are among the most important medical diseases of humans. Plague and murine typhus are known for centuries while the last years brought some new flea-transmitted pathogens, like R. felis and Bartonella henselae. Dogs may play an essential or an accidental role in the natural transmission cycle of flea-borne pathogens. They support the growth of some of the pathogens or they serve as transport vehicles for infected fleas between their natural reservoirs and humans. More than 15 different flea species have been described in domestic dogs thus far. Several other species have been found to be associated with wild canids. Fleas found on dogs originate from rodents, birds, insectivores and from other Carnivora. Dogs therefore may serve as ideal bridging hosts for the introduction of flea-borne diseases from nature to home. In addition to their role as ectoparasites they cause nuisance for humans and animals and may be the cause for severe allergic reactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerhard Dobler
- Bundeswehr Institute of Microbiology, Department of Virology and Rickettsiology, Neuherbergstrasse 11, D-80937 Munich, Germany.
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Bouhsira E, Yoon SS, Roques M, Manavella C, Vermot S, Cramer LG, Ollagnier C, Franc M. Efficacy of fipronil, amitraz and (S)-methoprene combination spot-on for dogs against adult dog fleas (Ctenocephalides canis, Curtis, 1826). Vet Parasitol 2011; 179:351-3. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2011.03.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Abdad MY, Stenos J, Graves S. Rickettsia felis, an emerging flea-transmitted human pathogen. EMERGING HEALTH THREATS JOURNAL 2011; 4:7168. [PMID: 24149035 PMCID: PMC3168219 DOI: 10.3402/ehtj.v4i0.7168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2011] [Revised: 05/05/2011] [Accepted: 05/15/2011] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Rickettsia felis was first recognised two decades ago and has now been described as endemic to all continents except Antarctica. The rickettsiosis caused by R. felis is known as flea-borne spotted fever or cat-flea typhus. The large number of arthropod species found to harbour R. felis and that may act as potential vectors support the view that it is a pan-global microbe. The main arthropod reservoir and vector is the cat flea, Ctenocephalides felis, yet more than 20 other species of fleas, ticks, and mites species have been reported to harbour R. felis. Few bacterial pathogens of humans have been found associated with such a diverse range of invertebrates. With the projected increase in global temperature over the next century, there is concern that changes to the ecology and distribution of R. felis vectors may adversely impact public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Yazid Abdad
- Australian Rickettsial Reference Laboratory, Geelong Hospital, Geelong, VIC, Australia;
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