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Rufino-Moya PJ, Zafra Leva R, Gonçalves Reis L, Acosta García I, Ruiz Di Genova D, Sánchez Gómez A, García García F, Martínez-Moreno FJ. Prevalence of Gastrointestinal Parasites in Small Ruminant Farms in Southern Spain. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1668. [PMID: 38891715 PMCID: PMC11171202 DOI: 10.3390/ani14111668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2024] [Revised: 05/31/2024] [Accepted: 06/01/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
The primary population of small ruminants in Spain is concentrated in the southern region, a critical area for the country's livestock production. Indirect economic losses can occur when this livestock is affected by gastrointestinal parasites. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of these parasites in small ruminant herds (159 sheep and 39 goats) through coprological analyses and conducted a survey on farmers' management practices related to gastrointestinal parasite control. The survey results revealed some important aspects: monitoring through coprological analyses is not a common practice; veterinarians are not typically involved in deworming plans; anthelmintic treatment in adults is often applied twice a year in sheep and once a year in goats; and finally, drug rotation was higher in sheep farms. Coprological analyses showed Eimeria spp. as the most common parasitic infection, followed by Strongyles infection. Other parasites like Moniezia spp., Trichuris spp., and D. dendriticum were less important, although their prevalence was higher in sheep than goats. This constitutes the first report on the epidemiological status of gastrointestinal parasites in small ruminants in southern Spain. Based on the survey findings, the introduction of certain management measures on farms could potentially mitigate parasite infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo José Rufino-Moya
- Animal Health Department (Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Córdoba, Sanidad Animal Building, Rabanales Campus, 14014 Córdoba, Spain; (P.J.R.-M.); (L.G.R.); (I.A.G.); (F.J.M.-M.)
| | - Rafael Zafra Leva
- Animal Health Department (Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Córdoba, Sanidad Animal Building, Rabanales Campus, 14014 Córdoba, Spain; (P.J.R.-M.); (L.G.R.); (I.A.G.); (F.J.M.-M.)
| | - Lilian Gonçalves Reis
- Animal Health Department (Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Córdoba, Sanidad Animal Building, Rabanales Campus, 14014 Córdoba, Spain; (P.J.R.-M.); (L.G.R.); (I.A.G.); (F.J.M.-M.)
| | - Isabel Acosta García
- Animal Health Department (Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Córdoba, Sanidad Animal Building, Rabanales Campus, 14014 Córdoba, Spain; (P.J.R.-M.); (L.G.R.); (I.A.G.); (F.J.M.-M.)
| | - Diego Ruiz Di Genova
- COVAP (Cooperativa Ganadera del Valle de los Pedroches) R&D Department, Pozoblanco, 14400 Córdoba, Spain; (D.R.D.G.); (A.S.G.); (F.G.G.)
| | - Almudena Sánchez Gómez
- COVAP (Cooperativa Ganadera del Valle de los Pedroches) R&D Department, Pozoblanco, 14400 Córdoba, Spain; (D.R.D.G.); (A.S.G.); (F.G.G.)
| | - Francisco García García
- COVAP (Cooperativa Ganadera del Valle de los Pedroches) R&D Department, Pozoblanco, 14400 Córdoba, Spain; (D.R.D.G.); (A.S.G.); (F.G.G.)
| | - Francisco J. Martínez-Moreno
- Animal Health Department (Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Córdoba, Sanidad Animal Building, Rabanales Campus, 14014 Córdoba, Spain; (P.J.R.-M.); (L.G.R.); (I.A.G.); (F.J.M.-M.)
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Pereira MA, Vila-Viçosa MJ, Coelho C, Santos C, Esteves F, Cruz R, Gomes L, Henriques D, Vala H, Nóbrega C, Mega AC, de Melo C, Malva M, Braguez J, Mateus TL. Pulmonary and Gastrointestinal Parasitic Infections in Small Ruminant Autochthonous Breeds from Centre Region of Portugal-A Cross Sectional Study. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1241. [PMID: 38672389 PMCID: PMC11047328 DOI: 10.3390/ani14081241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The production of small ruminant autochthonous breeds in the Centre region of Portugal is practiced in a semi-extensive husbandry system, exposing animals to parasitic infections. The main objective of this study was to estimate the prevalence of lungworm infection and identify risk factors. Fecal samples of 203 goats and 208 sheep from 30 herds were collected per rectum and subjected to the modified Baermann test. The overall prevalence of infection was 57.7%, significantly higher in goats (95.6%) than in sheep (20.7%) (p < 0.001). According to the binary logistic regression model, sheep dewormed with albendazole, mebendazole plus closantel, or ivermectin plus clorsulon presented a risk of Protostrongylidae infection 29.702, 7.426, or 8.720 times higher, respectively, than those dewormed with eprinomectin. Additionally, the presence of gastrointestinal parasites was investigated in 307 fecal samples using Mini-FLOTAC®. The overall prevalence of infection was 86.3%, also significantly higher in goats (93.2%) than in sheep (79.9%) (p < 0.001). Strongyle-type eggs were the most frequently identified, both in sheep (69.8%) and goats (87.8%), followed by Eimeria oocysts (40.3% in sheep and 68.9% in goats). Considering the high prevalence and the burden of lungworm parasitic infection, it is urgent to determine its economic impact and the repercussions in animal health in the Centre region of Portugal to establish appropriate therapeutic guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Aires Pereira
- Instituto Politécnico de Viseu, Escola Superior Agrária de Viseu, Campus Politécnico, 3504-510 Viseu, Portugal; (C.C.); (C.S.); (F.E.); (R.C.); (L.G.); (D.H.); (H.V.); (C.N.); (A.C.M.)
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine, GHTM, Associate Laboratory in Translation and Innovation Towards Global Health, LA-REAL, Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical, IHMT, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, UNL, Rua da Junqueira 100, 1349-008 Lisboa, Portugal
- CERNAS-IPV Research Centre, Instituto Politécnico de Viseu, Campus Politécnico, Repeses, 3504-510 Viseu, Portugal
| | - Maria João Vila-Viçosa
- Laboratório de Parasitologia Victor Caeiro, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade de Évora—Pólo da Mitra, Apartado 94, 7002-554 Évora, Portugal;
- MED, Instituto Mediterrâneo para a Agricultura, Ambiente e Desenvolvimento, Universidade de Évora—Pólo da Mitra, Apartado 94, 7006-554 Évora, Portugal
| | - Catarina Coelho
- Instituto Politécnico de Viseu, Escola Superior Agrária de Viseu, Campus Politécnico, 3504-510 Viseu, Portugal; (C.C.); (C.S.); (F.E.); (R.C.); (L.G.); (D.H.); (H.V.); (C.N.); (A.C.M.)
- CERNAS-IPV Research Centre, Instituto Politécnico de Viseu, Campus Politécnico, Repeses, 3504-510 Viseu, Portugal
- Veterinary and Animal Research Centre (CECAV), UTAD, Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4AnimalS) Quinta de Prados, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal;
| | - Carla Santos
- Instituto Politécnico de Viseu, Escola Superior Agrária de Viseu, Campus Politécnico, 3504-510 Viseu, Portugal; (C.C.); (C.S.); (F.E.); (R.C.); (L.G.); (D.H.); (H.V.); (C.N.); (A.C.M.)
| | - Fernando Esteves
- Instituto Politécnico de Viseu, Escola Superior Agrária de Viseu, Campus Politécnico, 3504-510 Viseu, Portugal; (C.C.); (C.S.); (F.E.); (R.C.); (L.G.); (D.H.); (H.V.); (C.N.); (A.C.M.)
- CERNAS-IPV Research Centre, Instituto Politécnico de Viseu, Campus Politécnico, Repeses, 3504-510 Viseu, Portugal
| | - Rita Cruz
- Instituto Politécnico de Viseu, Escola Superior Agrária de Viseu, Campus Politécnico, 3504-510 Viseu, Portugal; (C.C.); (C.S.); (F.E.); (R.C.); (L.G.); (D.H.); (H.V.); (C.N.); (A.C.M.)
- Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health (ITR), EpiUnit—Instituto de Saúde Pública da Universidade do Porto, Rua das Taipas, nº 135, 4050-091 Porto, Portugal
| | - Liliana Gomes
- Instituto Politécnico de Viseu, Escola Superior Agrária de Viseu, Campus Politécnico, 3504-510 Viseu, Portugal; (C.C.); (C.S.); (F.E.); (R.C.); (L.G.); (D.H.); (H.V.); (C.N.); (A.C.M.)
| | - Diogo Henriques
- Instituto Politécnico de Viseu, Escola Superior Agrária de Viseu, Campus Politécnico, 3504-510 Viseu, Portugal; (C.C.); (C.S.); (F.E.); (R.C.); (L.G.); (D.H.); (H.V.); (C.N.); (A.C.M.)
| | - Helena Vala
- Instituto Politécnico de Viseu, Escola Superior Agrária de Viseu, Campus Politécnico, 3504-510 Viseu, Portugal; (C.C.); (C.S.); (F.E.); (R.C.); (L.G.); (D.H.); (H.V.); (C.N.); (A.C.M.)
- CERNAS-IPV Research Centre, Instituto Politécnico de Viseu, Campus Politécnico, Repeses, 3504-510 Viseu, Portugal
- Centre for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences (CITAB), University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, 5001-801 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Carmen Nóbrega
- Instituto Politécnico de Viseu, Escola Superior Agrária de Viseu, Campus Politécnico, 3504-510 Viseu, Portugal; (C.C.); (C.S.); (F.E.); (R.C.); (L.G.); (D.H.); (H.V.); (C.N.); (A.C.M.)
- Centre for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences (CITAB), University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, 5001-801 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Ana Cristina Mega
- Instituto Politécnico de Viseu, Escola Superior Agrária de Viseu, Campus Politécnico, 3504-510 Viseu, Portugal; (C.C.); (C.S.); (F.E.); (R.C.); (L.G.); (D.H.); (H.V.); (C.N.); (A.C.M.)
- CERNAS-IPV Research Centre, Instituto Politécnico de Viseu, Campus Politécnico, Repeses, 3504-510 Viseu, Portugal
| | - Carolina de Melo
- Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Alameda de Santa Apolónia 253, 5300-252 Bragança, Portugal;
| | - Madalena Malva
- Instituto Politécnico de Viseu, Escola Superior de Tecnologia e Gestão de Viseu, Campus Politécnico, 3504-510 Viseu, Portugal; (M.M.); (J.B.)
| | - Joana Braguez
- Instituto Politécnico de Viseu, Escola Superior de Tecnologia e Gestão de Viseu, Campus Politécnico, 3504-510 Viseu, Portugal; (M.M.); (J.B.)
- CIAC—Centro de Investigação em Artes e Comunicação Universidade do Algarve, Campus Gambelas, Sala 0.28, Edifício 1, FCHS, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal
- CEIS20—Centro de Estudos Interdisciplinares, Rua Filipe Simões nº 33, 3000-186 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Teresa Letra Mateus
- Veterinary and Animal Research Centre (CECAV), UTAD, Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4AnimalS) Quinta de Prados, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal;
- Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health (ITR), EpiUnit—Instituto de Saúde Pública da Universidade do Porto, Rua das Taipas, nº 135, 4050-091 Porto, Portugal
- CISAS—Center for Research and Development in Agrifood Systems and Sustainability, Escola Superior Agrária, Instituto Politécnico de Viana do Castelo, Rua Escola Industrial e Comercial de Nun’Àlvares, 4900-347 Viana do Castelo, Portugal
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Sodi I, Martini M, Salari F, Perrucci S. Gastrointestinal Parasite Infections and Environmental Sustainability of the Ovine Sector: Eimeria spp. Infections and Nitrogen and Phosphorus Excretions in Dairy Sheep in Italy. Pathogens 2023; 12:1459. [PMID: 38133342 PMCID: PMC10746012 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12121459] [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: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
In sheep farming, gastrointestinal parasites can be responsible for significant reductions in animal health and production. Nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) fecal excretions are the main determining factors for N2O emissions from manure management and may pose other environmental problems, such as the acidification and eutrophication of natural habitats. By using the Mini-FLOTAC technique on fecal samples from sheep of different ages and physiological status from 19 dairy sheep farms in Tuscany (central Italy), gastrointestinal parasite infections were evaluated. The animal N and P fecal contents were also assessed, with the aim of evaluating possible relationships between the identified parasites and the environmental sustainability of the examined farms. The obtained results showed that Eimeria spp. (86.36%) and gastrointestinal strongyle (54.55%) infections are prevalent in the examined farms. Moreover, significantly higher (p ≤ 0.05) P and Eimeria oocyst/gram-of-feces (OPG) values were found in fecal samples from animals < 1 year of age, and a significant (p ≤ 0.05) positive correlation resulted between N content and Eimeria OPG in fecal samples from animals in the first month of lactation. The findings from this study suggest for the first time that Eimeria spp. infections may have an impact on the environmental sustainability of sheep farming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Sodi
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Pisa, Viale delle Piagge 2, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (I.S.); (M.M.)
| | - Mina Martini
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Pisa, Viale delle Piagge 2, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (I.S.); (M.M.)
- Research Center Nutraceuticals and Food for Health, University of Pisa, Via del Borghetto 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - Federica Salari
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Pisa, Viale delle Piagge 2, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (I.S.); (M.M.)
| | - Stefania Perrucci
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Pisa, Viale delle Piagge 2, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (I.S.); (M.M.)
- Research Center Nutraceuticals and Food for Health, University of Pisa, Via del Borghetto 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy
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Sánchez-Sánchez R, Gutiérrez J, Blasco-Castello JL, Marcos-Santamaría M, Cano-Alsua S, Elvira L, Ferre I, Ortega-Mora LM. A questionnaire-based survey in Spain provides relevant information to improve the control of ovine coccidiosis. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1326431. [PMID: 38125679 PMCID: PMC10730930 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1326431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Ovine coccidiosis is a widespread intestinal parasitic disease caused by Eimeria spp. Lambs are infected by the ingestion of sporulated oocysts, experiencing diarrhea and low growth rates. Control should be based on measures to reduce infection pressure and stress on the animals as well as on appropriate diagnosis and strategic treatment. To obtain information on how control measures are implemented in the ovine sector in Spain, a questionnaire-based survey was completed in 2022 by 154 veterinarians and 173 farmers working in this sector. Coccidiosis was highlighted as a relevant disease by 34% of the respondents. The period of greatest risk seemed to differ between production systems, being mainly early after weaning (7-15 days after weaning) in meat flocks and feedlots and later (1-2 months after weaning) in dairy flocks. The absence of cleaning and disinfection measures was identified as a risk factor by 51% of the veterinarians, with 22% mentioning overcrowding of animals and 22% indicating that coccidiosis has more incidence in flocks with large number of animals. The use of laboratory diagnosis methods (fecal oocyst count) was unusual in 70 and 84% of the veterinarians and farmers, respectively. Regarding control, dairy flocks usually housed a larger number of animals under intensive conditions, and they implemented more frequently control measures for coccidiosis than meat flocks. Anticoccidial drugs were used in 79% of the flocks, and in 74-82% of them, they were applied based on clinical criteria. Comparing protocols for anticoccidial treatment among different production systems, in meat flocks, anticoccidial drugs were applied more frequently when clinical signs were observed, and coccidiostats were used for less than 28 days compared to dairy flocks. These results highlight the need for improvement in the use of anticoccidial treatments adjusted to the new regulatory framework in the EU, which in turn will rationalize the use of antimicrobial compounds and may help to mitigate the impact of coccidiosis in flocks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Sánchez-Sánchez
- SALUVET, Animal Health Department, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jorge Gutiérrez
- MSD Animal Health, Polígono Industrial El Montalvo, C/Zeppelin, Salamanca, Spain
| | | | | | - Santiago Cano-Alsua
- Computing Services, Research Support Center, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Laura Elvira
- MSD Animal Health, Polígono Industrial El Montalvo, C/Zeppelin, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Ignacio Ferre
- SALUVET, Animal Health Department, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Luis Miguel Ortega-Mora
- SALUVET, Animal Health Department, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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Cai W, Cheng C, Feng Q, Ma Y, Hua E, Jiang S, Hou Z, Liu D, Yang A, Cheng D, Xu J, Tao J. Prevalence and risk factors associated with gastrointestinal parasites in goats ( Capra hircus) and sheep ( Ovis aries) from three provinces of China. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1287835. [PMID: 38098673 PMCID: PMC10719946 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1287835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Gastrointestinal (GI) parasites in small ruminants, especially goats and sheep, have caused significant socio-economic and public health challenges worldwide. The aim of the present study was to investigate the diversity and prevalence of GI parasites in goats and sheep in Jiangsu, Shaanxi and Hunan provinces of China, and to assess whether the age of animals, sampling season and feeding mode influence the distribution and infection of GI parasites. A total of 1,081 fecal samples collected from goats (n = 835) and sheep (n = 246) were detected by saturated saline flotation technique and nylon sifter elutriation and sieving method for eggs/oocysts, respectively. Based on the morphological observation of eggs and oocysts, one tapeworm, five nematodes, three trematodes and nineteen coccidia were identified, of which seven helminths belong to zoonotic parasites. The infection rate of parasites was 83.4% (902/1081) in total samples, 91.6% (765/835) in goats, and 55.7% (137/246) in sheep. The infection rate of coccidia was 71.0% (767/1081), and that of helminths was 56.2% (607/1081). The dominant species was E. alijeri (67.3%, 562/835) in goats, E. parva (30.1%, 74/246) in sheep. The highest prevalent helminths were Trichostrongylidae spp. in goats (58.3%, 487/835), and Moniezia spp. in sheep (22.76%, 56/246). Of 902 positive samples, 825 (91.5%, 825/902) contained multiple (2-10) parasites. The feeding mode, sampling season and regions were relevant risk factors which have significant influence on the occurrence of GI parasites in goats and sheep. The risk coefficient of parasite infection in autumn was 2.49 times higher than spring (Odds ratio = 2.49, 95% CI = 1.51-4.09, p < 0.001). Compared to raising on the high beds, the goats and sheep raising on the ground had the higher risk of parasite infection (OR = 3.91, 95% CI = 2.07-7.40, p < 0.001). The risk coefficient of parasite infection in Shaanxi and Hunan was 3.78 and 1.25 times higher than that in Jiangsu (OR = 3.78, 95% CI = 2.01-7.12, p < 0.001; OR = 1.25, 95% CI = 1.21-1.29, p < 0.001). These data are significant for the development of prevention strategies to minimise economic losses from small ruminant production and to reduce the risk of water and food infecting humans as vectors of zoonotic parasitic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weimin Cai
- Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Cheng Cheng
- Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Qianqian Feng
- Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Yifei Ma
- Rudong Animal Disease Control Center, Nantong, China
| | - Enyu Hua
- Changshu Animal Disease Control Center, Suzhou, China
| | - Shimin Jiang
- Zhangjiajie Yongding District Animal Husbandry and Fishery Affairs Center, Zhangjiajie, China
| | - Zhaofeng Hou
- Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Dandan Liu
- Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Anlong Yang
- Yangzhou Municipal Bureau of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Yangzhou, China
| | - Darong Cheng
- Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Jinjun Xu
- Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Jianping Tao
- Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
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Pelegrin-Valls J, Álvarez-Rodríguez J, Martín-Alonso MJ, Aquilué B, Serrano-Pérez B. Impact of carob (Ceratonia siliqua L.) pulp inclusion and warm season on gastrointestinal morphological parameters, immune-redox defences and coccidiosis in concentrate-fed light lambs. Res Vet Sci 2023; 163:104969. [PMID: 37639805 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2023.104969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate the effects of dietary carob (Ceratonia siliqua L.) pulp and warm season on gastrointestinal morphological parameters, immune-redox defences and coccidiosis in concentrate-fed light lambs. Weaned lambs were assigned to one of three concentrate-based diets: C0 (without carob pulp), C15 (150 g/kg of carob pulp) and C30 (300 g/kg of carob pulp) from 40 to 80 days of age in two consecutive cold and warm batches. Blood samples were collected at Day 80 to determine the metabolic status. Rectal faeces were sampled at Days 50, 65 and 80 to determine consistency and oocyst count per gram. Inclusion of carob pulp in lamb diets did not affect lamb growth but reduced coccidia oocyst excretion, improved faecal consistency and gastrointestinal morphological parameters, enhancing the ruminal thickness of the papilla living strata and reducing the darkness of the epithelium colour. Moreover, carob condensed tannins in the lambs' diet enhanced the expression of antioxidant SOD2 in rumen, while down-regulated NRF2, SOD1, CAT and PPARG in ileum. There was no interaction between the treatments and season in the evaluated variables. Lambs from the warm season exhibited reduced growth performance, altered ruminal epithelium, lower circulating iron levels, increased protein concentrations and higher coccidiosis susceptibility. In addition, regulatory immune and antioxidant mechanisms to counterbalance reactive oxygen species production in gastrointestinal tissues were evident. Dietary inclusion of carob pulp (150 and 300 g/kg) in lamb diets improved gastrointestinal health and homeostasis but did not ameliorate the deleterious effects of warm season.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Beatriz Aquilué
- Department of Animal Science, University of Lleida, Lleida 25198, Spain
| | - Beatriz Serrano-Pérez
- Department of Animal Science, University of Lleida, Lleida 25198, Spain; AGROTECNIO-CERCA Center, Lleida 25198, Spain.
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7
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ElHamdi S, Sassi L, Rekik M, Dhehibi M, Cheikh M'hamed H, Gharbi M. Conservation agriculture has no significant impact on sheep digestive parasitism. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1244355. [PMID: 37808117 PMCID: PMC10551164 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1244355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Conservation agriculture (CONS A) is a sustainable agriculture system based on crop rotation with no tillage. It has various environmental advantages compared to conventional agriculture (CONV A): decreased water evaporation, erosion, and CO2 emissions. In this first study of its kind, we aim to evaluate the impact of this type of agriculture on sheep gastrointestinal parasites. Two lamb groups aged between 5 and 10 months were randomly included to graze separately on CONS A and CONV A pastures. Each group was composed of two batches of three lambs, and these were followed up for two rearing months. Liveweight, hematological parameter variation, and digestive parasites were studied. At the end of the study period, lambs were slaughtered the carcass yield was determined, and a helminthological autopsy was performed on the digestive tracts of the animals to estimate different parasitological indicators. There was no difference between lambs reared on CONS A and those reared on CONV A for all parasite indicators (infestation intensity, abundance, and prevalence). The same trend was also obtained for hematological parameters, liveweight evolution, and carcass yield. These results prove that there is no impact of CONS A on the sheep's digestive parasitism. Further studies are needed to support these findings on larger animal samples and to investigate the impact of conservation agriculture on other parasite species. Similar studies could also be conducted on ruminant species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sihem ElHamdi
- Ruminant Internal Medicine Service, Institution de la Recherche et de l'Enseignement Supérieur Agricoles, École Nationale de Médecine Vétérinaire de Sidi Thabet, Université de la Manouba, Sidi Thabet, Tunisia
| | - Limam Sassi
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie, Institution de la Recherche et de l'Enseignement Supérieur Agricoles, École Nationale de Médecine Vétérinaire de Sidi Thabet, Université de la Manouba, Sidi Thabet, Tunisia
| | - Mourad Rekik
- International Center for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA), Amman, Jordan
| | - Mokhtar Dhehibi
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie, Institution de la Recherche et de l'Enseignement Supérieur Agricoles, École Nationale de Médecine Vétérinaire de Sidi Thabet, Université de la Manouba, Sidi Thabet, Tunisia
| | | | - Mohamed Gharbi
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie, Institution de la Recherche et de l'Enseignement Supérieur Agricoles, École Nationale de Médecine Vétérinaire de Sidi Thabet, Université de la Manouba, Sidi Thabet, Tunisia
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Celi K, Guzmán L, Rey-Valeirón C. Apicomplexans in Goat: Prevalence of Neospora caninum, Toxoplasma gondii, Cryptosporidium spp., Eimeria spp. and Risk Factors in Farms from Ecuador. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12172224. [PMID: 36077944 PMCID: PMC9454992 DOI: 10.3390/ani12172224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Revised: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Neospora caninum, Toxoplasma gondii, Cryptosporidium and Eimeria species are parasites of phylum Apicomplexa, which includes several protozoa affecting animals and humans. In Ecuador, the maintenance of goat health is a matter of utmost importance because it affects the economic welfare of the breeders. N. caninum and T. gondii cause reproductive problems in goats, leading to abortions or weak offspring. Severe diarrhea in kids and delays in growth are due to the Cryptosporidium and Eimeria species. Moreover, T. gondii and Cryptosporidium are zoonotic parasites with serious consequences for human health. The aim of this work was to determine, by serological and parasitological tests, the prevalence of these parasites and the risk factors for goat populations in Southern Ecuador. On some farms, the prevalence of N. caninum and T. gondii reached more than 50%; up to 17% of the kids were positive for Cryptosporidium and 90% of the goats were positive for the Eimeria species. The analysis of risk factors revealed differences according to the parasite species. Considering the zoonotic significance of these results, control and prevention measures are essential and constitute a warning to veterinarians and governmental institutions. Abstract Neospora caninum, Toxoplasma gondii, Cryptosporidium and Eimeria cause severe impacts on the productivity of goat herds. The objectives of the present study were to establish the prevalence of these apicomplexans in goat farms from Ecuador; to evaluate a rapid test for Cryptosporidium diagnosis and to identify the risk factors associated with the infections. A questionnaire was designed to obtain information from 24 goat farms from Zapotillo, Garza Real, Cazaderos, Limones and Paletillas parishes in Ecuador. Blood (n = 388) and feces (n = 391) samples were collected. Indirect ELISA and standard parasitological assays were carried out to evaluate the seroprevalence of N. caninum and T. gondii and to detect oocysts of Cryptosporidium and Eimeria. The overall prevalence values of N. caninum and T. gondii were 12.11% and 18.20%, Cryptosporidium spp. and Eimeria spp. oocysts were detected in 10.49% and 89.51% of the total samples. A low correlation value was found between the results obtained by Ziehl-Nielsen and the rapid test. The multinomial logistic regression analysis revealed that vitamin supplementation, age of diarrhea, frequency of deworming, pasture area, presence of artiodactyls, domestic fowl, administration of sulfas, age group, body condition, abortions, type of pastures and the presence of cattle were risk factors according to the parasite species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Celi
- Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas y Agropecuarias, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Maestría en Biotecnología Agropecuaria, Universidad Técnica Particular de Loja, San Cayetano Alto s/n, Loja 1101608, Ecuador
| | - Lucía Guzmán
- Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas y Agropecuarias, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad Técnica Particular de Loja, San Cayetano Alto s/n, Loja 1101608, Ecuador
- Correspondence: (L.G.); (C.R.-V.)
| | - Catalina Rey-Valeirón
- Laboratorio de Investigación en Parasitología Veterinaria, Universidad Nacional Experimental Francisco de Miranda, Coro 4101, Venezuela
- Correspondence: (L.G.); (C.R.-V.)
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Bangoura B, Bhuiya MAI, Kilpatrick M. Eimeria infections in domestic and wild ruminants with reference to control options in domestic ruminants. Parasitol Res 2022; 121:2207-2232. [PMID: 35680677 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-022-07564-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Eimeria infections are commonly seen in a variety of mammalian hosts. This genus of unicellular sporozoan parasites causes significant disease (coccidiosis) in different livestock species leading to economic losses for agricultural producers. Especially the production of cattle, sheep, and goat is strongly dependent on efficient coccidiosis control. However, many other livestock hosts like, e.g., camelids, bison, rabbits, and guinea pigs may benefit from reduced parasite transmission and targeted control measures as well. Besides livestock, also wildlife and pet animals may be affected by Eimeria infections resulting in clinical or subclinical coccidiosis. Wildlife herd health is crucial to conservation efforts, and Eimeria species are a prevalent pathogen in multiple mammalian wildlife species. This review aims to highlight the epidemiology of mammalian Eimeria infections in both wild and domestic ruminants, including host specificity, transmission, survival of environmental oocysts, occurrence, and risk factors for infection. Understanding general drivers of Eimeria infection may support adequate livestock and wildlife management. Furthermore, control options for livestock with reference to management factors, drug application, and alternative approaches are discussed. The goal of Eimeria control should be to reduce pathogen transmission in different host species and to improve sustainable livestock production. Controlling Eimeria infections in livestock is important considering both their animal welfare impact and their high economic relevance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Berit Bangoura
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, 82070, USA.
| | - Md Ashraful Islam Bhuiya
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, 82070, USA
| | - Michelle Kilpatrick
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, 82070, USA
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10
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Seasonal prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in desert bighorn sheep ( Ovis canadensis) in northern Mexico. J Helminthol 2022; 96:e26. [DOI: 10.1017/s0022149x22000207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
This study aimed to describe the shedding pattern of gastrointestinal parasite eggs by a wild population of desert bighorn sheep (DBS; Ovis canadensis) in northern Mexico. Seventy-five fresh faecal samples were collected from the ground in each season within an hour after being expelled by these animals. The generalized linear mixed model showed that eggs per gram of faeces were highest in winter (577 ± 399) and lowest in summer (260 ± 198). Generalized linear models revealed that Strongyloides spp. predominated during most seasons with a peak in summer (85% of faecal samples analysed) and the absence of this helminth in winter. Nematodirus spp. was another helminth present in three seasons, with the presence of this nematode in 35% of the faecal samples in spring and 0% in summer. Other parasites in DBS faeces included Bunostomun spp., Trichostrongylus spp., Cooperia spp., Mecistocirrus digitatus, Haemonchus contortus, Chabertia ovina and Eimeria ovinoidalis. There were differences among seasons in the percentage of these helminths and coccidia in faecal samples for all these parasites. It was concluded that helminths egg output in DBS in a semi-arid rangeland is lowest in summer and spring and highest in autumn and winter. Furthermore, it was shown that DBS in the study site do not suffer from severe parasite burden. Therefore, this nematode parasite burden is compatible with the conservation and well-being of this particular population.
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Diao NC, Zhao B, Chen Y, Wang Q, Chen ZY, Yang Y, Sun YH, Shi JF, Li JM, Shi K, Gong QL, Du R. Prevalence of Eimeria Spp. Among Goats in China: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:806085. [PMID: 35310846 PMCID: PMC8924409 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.806085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Eimeria spp. infection can cause weight loss in goats, and severe cases can lead to the death of lambs, resulting in economic losses to the goat industry. To explore the pooled prevalence of Eimeria spp. in goats in China, we obtained 70 related publications from five databases and conducted a meta-analysis. In China, the combined prevalence of Eimeria spp. in goats was 78.7% (95% confidence interval (CI): 68.15–87.67). Among them, the most serious infections occurred in Northeast China (88.0%, 95% CI: 83.54–91.86). The main Eimeria species were E. alijevi (43.7%, 95% CI: 29.53–58.45), E. arloingi (49.7%, 95% CI: 34.83–64.49), E. christenseni (41.2%, 95% CI: 27.07–56.16), and E. ninakohlyakimovae (35.9%, 95% CI: 21.02–52.31). In the sampling year subgroup, 2006 or later presented a lower prevalence (75.3%, 95%CI: 58.72–88.72). In terms of age, the point estimate for young goats (≤ 1 year) was higher (89.9%, 95% CI: 80.82–96.48). The Float (NaCl) method showed the lowest prevalence of Eimeria spp. in goats (75.9%, 95%CI: 62.00–87.46). In the season subgroup, the highest prevalence was in summer (81.5%, 95%CI: 49.62–99.18). Female goats presented a higher prevalence of Eimeria spp. infection than male goats (70.7%, 95%CI: 27.90–98.96). The prevalence was lower in the intensive feeding model (77.4%, 95%CI: 66.56–86.67) and higher in free feeding goats (79.4%, 95%CI: 66.46–89.92). In addition, we also analyzed the potential relationship between geographical factors and the prevalence of Eimeria spp. infection in goats in China. Our findings suggested that Eimeria spp. infection in goats is widespread in China. Despite the overall downward trend, this infection cannot be ignored. We recommend that breeders use anticoccidial drugs to prevent and treat this disease, while improving the feeding conditions and managemental practices to reduce the economic losses caused by Eimeria infection to the goat industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nai-Chao Diao
- College of Chinese Medicine Materials, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun City, China
| | - Bo Zhao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun City, China
| | - Yu Chen
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing City, China
| | - Qi Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun City, China
| | - Zi-Yang Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun City, China
| | - Yang Yang
- College of Chinese Medicine Materials, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun City, China
| | - Yu-Han Sun
- College of Chinese Medicine Materials, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun City, China
| | - Jun-Feng Shi
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun City, China
| | - Jian-Ming Li
- College of Chinese Medicine Materials, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun City, China
| | - Kun Shi
- College of Chinese Medicine Materials, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun City, China
- *Correspondence: Kun Shi, ; Qing-Long Gong, ; Rui Du,
| | - Qing-Long Gong
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun City, China
- *Correspondence: Kun Shi, ; Qing-Long Gong, ; Rui Du,
| | - Rui Du
- College of Chinese Medicine Materials, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun City, China
- *Correspondence: Kun Shi, ; Qing-Long Gong, ; Rui Du,
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Carneiro PG, Sasse JP, Silva ACDS, Seixas MD, Paschoal ATP, Minutti AF, Martins TA, Cardim ST, Rodrigues FDS, Barros LDD, Garcia JL. Prevalence and risk factors of Eimeria spp. natural infection in sheep from northern Paraná, Brazil. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE PARASITOLOGIA VETERINARIA = BRAZILIAN JOURNAL OF VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY : ORGAO OFICIAL DO COLEGIO BRASILEIRO DE PARASITOLOGIA VETERINARIA 2022; 31:e017421. [PMID: 35019027 PMCID: PMC9901863 DOI: 10.1590/s1984-29612022004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The present study aimed to perform an epidemiological and morphological identification of Eimeria infection in sheep in Brazil. Fecal samples from sheep were collected from 20 farms in northern Paraná, Brazil. An epidemiological questionnaire was used to evaluate the risk factors. Fecal samples containing oocysts per gram of feces (OoPG) ≥1000 were subjected to the modified Willis-Mollay method to perform oocyst identification. Sporulated oocysts were observed microscopically for morphological identification. A total of 807 fecal samples were collected. Based on the morphological characteristics of the sporulated oocysts, 10 species of Eimeria were identified, with main species observed: Eimeira ovinoidalis (98.1%), Eimeria crandallis (87.6%), Eimeria parva (79.1%), and Eimeria bakuensis (60.8%). Only 2.6% (7/268) of the sheep were infected with a single species, 4.8% (13/268) contained two different species, and 92.5% (248/268) were infected with three or more species. The analysis of risk factors showed that an intensive rearing, no rotation of pasture, dirt, and slatted floors, and age up to 12 months were associated with infection. This study showed a high prevalence of Eimeria natural infection in sheep from northern Paraná, Brazil. Furthermore, based on the risk factors, good management and hygiene practices must be employed to avoid infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priscilla Gomes Carneiro
- Laboratório de Protozoologia Animal, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Universidade Estadual de Londrina - UEL, Londrina, PR, Brasil
| | - João Pedro Sasse
- Laboratório de Protozoologia Animal, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Universidade Estadual de Londrina - UEL, Londrina, PR, Brasil
| | - Ana Clécia Dos Santos Silva
- Laboratório de Protozoologia Animal, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Universidade Estadual de Londrina - UEL, Londrina, PR, Brasil
| | - Mércia de Seixas
- Laboratório de Protozoologia Animal, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Universidade Estadual de Londrina - UEL, Londrina, PR, Brasil
| | - Aline Ticiani Pereira Paschoal
- Laboratório de Protozoologia Animal, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Universidade Estadual de Londrina - UEL, Londrina, PR, Brasil
| | - Ana Flávia Minutti
- Laboratório de Protozoologia Animal, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Universidade Estadual de Londrina - UEL, Londrina, PR, Brasil
| | - Thais Agostinho Martins
- Laboratório de Protozoologia Animal, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Universidade Estadual de Londrina - UEL, Londrina, PR, Brasil
| | - Sérgio Tosi Cardim
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Norte do Paraná - UNOPAR, Arapongas, PR, Brasil
| | - Fernando de Souza Rodrigues
- Laboratório de Protozoologia Animal, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Universidade Estadual de Londrina - UEL, Londrina, PR, Brasil
| | - Luiz Daniel de Barros
- Laboratório de Protozoologia Animal, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Universidade Estadual de Londrina - UEL, Londrina, PR, Brasil
| | - João Luis Garcia
- Laboratório de Protozoologia Animal, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Universidade Estadual de Londrina - UEL, Londrina, PR, Brasil
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Meradi S, Bentounsi B. Lamb's Eimeria infections raised in a steppic region and their impacts on clinical indicators (FAMACHA © and Disco). J Parasit Dis 2021; 45:599-605. [PMID: 34475639 PMCID: PMC8368340 DOI: 10.1007/s12639-020-01336-z] [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: 08/29/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
Abstract
A total of 290 lambs in 29 small flocks were studied from October to January 2020, conducted in a semi-extensive rearing system. The objective was to identify by the microscopic morphology of oocysts the Eimeria species that infect lambs in a steppe region of eastern Algeria, as well as to evaluate on these parasites two clinical indicators of diarrhea (Disco) and anemia (FAMACHA©) used in targeted selective treatments against gastrointestinal nematodes (GIN). This present work completes the previous evaluations carried out in steppe conditions in our laboratory on GIN and cestodes. All these enteric parasites can influence these indicators. They constitute by their morbidity and their presence, alone or concomitantly, a factor determining or aggravating diarrhea, the main problem of sheep farming. The prevalence of Eimeria sp. oocysts was 56.2%. Eight species were identified: E. intricata (50.3%), E. bakuensis (43.6%), E. ovinoidalis (27.6%), E. crandallis (23.9%), E. parva (20.9%), E. weybridgensis (13.5%), E. pallida (9.2%) and E. ashata (6.7%). Unlike GIN and Cestodes where only Disco was affected, E. ovinoidalis was strongly affecting both indicators, while E. crandalis was slightly less affecting. This confirms the pathogenicity of these two species and suggests that their presence should also be taken into consideration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salah Meradi
- Institute of Veterinary Sciences and Agronomic Sciences, University of Batna 1, Batna, Algeria
| | - Bourhane Bentounsi
- Institute of Veterinary Sciences, University of Constantine 1, Constantine, Algeria
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Determinants of Eimeria and Campylobacter infection dynamics in UK domestic sheep: the role of co-infection. Parasitology 2021; 148:623-629. [PMID: 33541446 PMCID: PMC10090772 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182021000044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Coccidiosis caused by Eimeria species is a well-recognized disease of livestock. Enteric Eimeria infections are common, but disease usually only manifests when infection intensity is abnormally high. Campylobacter species are important zoonotic enteric bacterial pathogens for which livestock are important reservoir hosts. The diversity and epidemiology of ovine Eimeria and Campylobacter infections on two farms in north-western England were explored through a 24-month survey of shedding in sheep feces. Most animals were infected with at least one of 10 different Eimeria species, among which E. bakuensis and E. ovinoidalis were most common. An animal's age and the season of sampling were associated with the probability and intensity of Eimeria infection. Season of sampling was also associated with the probability of Campylobacter infection. Interestingly, higher intensities of Eimeria infections were significantly more common in animals not co-infected with Campylobacter. We explored the determinants of E. bakuensis and E. ovinoidalis infections, observing that being infected with either significantly increased the likelihood of infection with the other. The prevalence of E. ovinoidalis infections was significantly lower in sheep infected with Campylobacter. Recognition that co-infectors shape the dynamics of parasite infection is relevant to the design of effective infection control programmes.
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15
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El-Alfy ES, Abbas I, Al-Kappany Y, Al-Araby M, Abu-Elwafa S, Dubey JP. Prevalence of Eimeria species in sheep ( Ovis aries) from Dakahlia governorate, Egypt. J Parasit Dis 2020; 44:559-573. [PMID: 32801508 PMCID: PMC7410986 DOI: 10.1007/s12639-020-01229-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2020] [Accepted: 05/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Feces from 184 sheep from Dakahlia governorate, Egypt were tested for Eimeria species oocysts by using the standard floatation technique; oocysts were detected in 126 (68.4%). The prevalence was significantly higher in young sheep than adults. Eleven Eimeria species were identified: Eimeria ahsata, Eimeria bakuensis, Eimeria crandallis, Eimeria faurei, Eimeria granulosa, Eimeria intricata, Eimeria marsica, Eimeria ovinoidalis, Eimeria pallida, Eimeria parva and Eimeria webybridgensis. Oocysts of the most pathogenic ovine species, E. ovinoidalis, were detected in 27 (14.6%) sheep. This is the first report of E. webybridgensis in sheep from Egypt, possibly due to close similarity of their oocysts to those of E. crandallis which stated in the earlier reports. Worldwide reports on epidemiology of Eimeria spp. infections in sheep are tabulated.
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Affiliation(s)
- El-Sayed El-Alfy
- Parasitology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, 35516 Egypt
| | - Ibrahim Abbas
- Parasitology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, 35516 Egypt
| | - Yara Al-Kappany
- Parasitology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, 35516 Egypt
| | - Moustafa Al-Araby
- Parasitology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, 35516 Egypt
| | - Salah Abu-Elwafa
- Parasitology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, 35516 Egypt
| | - Jitender P. Dubey
- Animal Parasitic Diseases Laboratory, Beltsville Agricultural Research Center, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, MD 20705-2350 USA
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de Macedo LO, Bezerra-Santos MA, de Mendonça CL, Alves LC, Ramos RAN, de Carvalho GA. Prevalence and risk factors associated with infection by Eimeria spp. in goats and sheep in Northeastern Brazil. J Parasit Dis 2020; 44:607-612. [PMID: 32801513 PMCID: PMC7410878 DOI: 10.1007/s12639-020-01235-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Eimeria spp. infections lead to acute or chronic intestinal disorders in small ruminants, being responsible for important economic losses worldwide. The aim of this study was to assess the risk factors associated with Eimeria spp. infection in small ruminants of the microregion of Garanhuns, state of Pernambuco, Northeastern Brazil. Fecal samples (n = 822) were obtained from goats (n = 414) and sheep (n = 408) and evaluated by the modified Gordon and Whitlock technique. Risk factors were assessed through univariate analysis and logistical regression. Oocysts of Eimeria species were detected in 62.9% (517/822) of the animals, with 77.8% (322/414) in goats and 47.8% (195/408) in sheep. For goats, the herd size (OR = 5.52), rearing system (OR = 1.57), feeding place (OR = 2.60), absence of mineral salt in the diet (OR = 2.54), flooring type (OR = 2.83) and periodicity of cleaning (OR = 5.39) were considered risk factors. Conversely, for sheep only the herd size (OR = 3.16) and rearing system (OR = 2.45) were important factors associated with infection by Eimeria spp. Data herein obtained brings meaningful information on the epidemiology of coccidiosis in small ruminants in Northeastern Brazil. The knowledge of these risk factors is useful to contribute to the development of preventive measures, thereby, reducing the economic impact caused by these protozoa in small ruminant production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Oliveira de Macedo
- Academic Unit of Garanhuns, Federal Rural University of Pernambuco, Garanhuns, Pernambuco 55292-270 Brazil
| | | | - Carla Lopes de Mendonça
- Clinic of Bovines of Garanhuns, Federal Rural University of Pernambuco, Garanhuns, Pernambuco 55292-270 Brazil
| | - Leucio Câmara Alves
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal Rural University of Pernambuco, Recife, Pernambuco 52171-900 Brazil
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Silva LMR, Carrau T, Vila-Viçosa MJM, Musella V, Rinaldi L, Failing K, Cortes HCE, Taubert A, Hermosilla C. Analysis of potential risk factors of caprine coccidiosis. VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY- REGIONAL STUDIES AND REPORTS 2020; 22:100458. [PMID: 33308721 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2020.100458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2019] [Revised: 07/21/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Caprine coccidiosis represents a major concern in goat industry worldwide causing high economic losses, mainly due to poor weight gains, treatment costs and even death of kids. Therefore, analyses on risk factors involved in the establishment and outcome of this disease are important to improve infection status and herd management. In Portugal, approximately 400,000 goats are reared every year. The majority of them are allocated in the southern part of the country. In the current study, a representative number of animals (382 goats) and herds (37 herds) from Alentejo were monitored. Faecal samples from five young and five adult goats of each farm were collected rectally and examined individually by using the modified McMaster technique for oocyst counts (oocyst per gram of faeces - OPG). Additionally, a questionnaire on the husbandry conditions and anti-parasitic treatments was performed. Overall, a prevalence of Eimeria infections of 99% and 100% was detected on animal and herd level, respectively. Eimeria arloingi and E. ninakohlyakimovae as the two most pathogenic caprine species also constituted the most prevalent ones (34.91% and 29.90%, respectively), both in the young and the adult goat groups. As expected, OPG vales were significantly higher (p = 0.031) in young than in adult goats. Furthermore, risk factor analyses revealed young age, higher total number of animals on the farm and outdoor kidding as strongly associated with a higher risk of caprine coccidiosis. Overall, the high prevalence of pathogenic Eimeria species on Portuguese goat farms in combination with the occurrence of related risk factors strengthen the importance of coccidiosis control in caprine industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- L M R Silva
- Institute of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Germany; Laboratório de Parasitologia Victor Caeiro, MED - Mediteranean Institute for Agriculture, Environment and Development, University of Evora, Portugal.
| | - T Carrau
- Department of Bioresources, Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology, Ohlebergsweg 12, Giessen 35392, Germany
| | - M J M Vila-Viçosa
- Laboratório de Parasitologia Victor Caeiro, MED - Mediteranean Institute for Agriculture, Environment and Development, University of Evora, Portugal
| | - V Musella
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Graecia, Viale Europa, Catanzaro 88100, Italy
| | - L Rinaldi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Via Delpino 1, Naples 80137, Italy
| | - K Failing
- Unit for Biomathematics and Data Processing, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Germany
| | - H C E Cortes
- Laboratório de Parasitologia Victor Caeiro, MED - Mediteranean Institute for Agriculture, Environment and Development, University of Evora, Portugal
| | - A Taubert
- Institute of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Germany
| | - C Hermosilla
- Institute of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Germany
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18
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Abstract
Ruminant coccidiosis, caused by Eimeria species, is a significant and widespread enteric disease in young livestock worldwide. High morbidities and significant mortalities may be observed. For disease diagnosis, fecal samples from clinically ill animals should be analyzed for both, identity (ie, pathogenicity) of Eimeria species and excreted oocyst amount. To prevent coccidiosis-related economic losses, management measures to reduce infection pressure and improve general animal health are crucial. Anticoccidial drugs are widely used to control clinical and subclinical disease. Treatment is most efficient when applied prophylactically or metaphylactically. To avoid development of parasite drug resistance, drugs should be used sustainably.
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19
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Alcala-Canto Y, Figueroa-Castillo JA, Ibarra-Velarde F, Vera-Montenegro Y, Cervantes-Valencia ME, Alberti-Navarro A. First database of the spatial distribution of Eimeria species of cattle, sheep and goats in Mexico. Parasitol Res 2020; 119:1057-1074. [PMID: 31901110 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-019-06548-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2019] [Accepted: 11/11/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Ruminant coccidiosis is a gastrointestinal disease caused by parasites of the genus Eimeria. Environmental and climatic factors are relevant for the development, survival, and transmission of coccidiosis because Eimeria oocysts are able to survive in the environment for several weeks or months in favorable conditions of moderate heat and moisture. The aim of the present study was to georeference, for the first time, the locations of Eimeria occurrences in Mexico from 1961 to 2018. A dataset was created for 3414 reports of Eimeria occurrences in cattle, sheep, and goats in Mexico. Twelve species of Eimeria that infect cattle were recorded, 11 Eimeria species of sheep are present in Mexico, and eight species of goats are geographically distributed in the country. In the current findings, it has been observed that Eimeria colonizes mainly the temperate semihumid, temperate humid, warm humid, and warm semihumid areas during spring and summer in animals younger than 1 year of age. Macroenvironmental variables like temperature and rainfall influence the prevalence of Eimeria in cattle, sheep, and goats, and for some species, the rearing system, facility type, farm size, and altitude affect the occurrence of this parasite. Results may support future studies aimed at reducing the disease prevalence of the parasite in endemic regions of Mexico. The use of recorded cases and climate variables yields a more comprehensive perspective of the epidemiology of eimeriosis, which would be difficult to infer from laboratory studies alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yazmin Alcala-Canto
- Departamento de Parasitología, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, UNAM, 04510, Mexico City, Mexico.
| | | | - Froylan Ibarra-Velarde
- Departamento de Parasitología, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, UNAM, 04510, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Yolanda Vera-Montenegro
- Departamento de Parasitología, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, UNAM, 04510, Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | - Aldo Alberti-Navarro
- Departamento de Medicina y Zootecnia de Rumiantes, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, UNAM, 04510, Mexico City, Mexico
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20
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Lopez-Osorio S, Villar D, Failing K, Taubert A, Hermosilla C, Chaparro-Gutierrez JJ. Epidemiological survey and risk factor analysis on Eimeria infections in calves and young cattle up to 1 year old in Colombia. Parasitol Res 2019; 119:255-266. [PMID: 31760498 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-019-06481-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2019] [Accepted: 09/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
A large-scale cross-sectional epidemiological study was conducted to evaluate prevalence, species diversity, and associated risk factors of Eimeria infections in 55 cattle farms across seven states of Colombia, including subtropical and tropical regions. In total, 1333 fecal samples from young animals (< 1 year of age) were examined at a single sampling date from August 2016 to December 2016. Flotation and McMaster techniques were conducted for parasitological investigation. Excreted Eimeria oocysts were allowed to sporulate in vitro and thereafter identified to species level based on morphological and morphometric characteristics. The overall Eimeria prevalence was 75.5% (1006/1333), with no difference observed between age categories. In total, 13 different Eimeria species were identified. The most prevalent species was E. bovis (33.5%), followed by E. auburnensis (12.5%) and E. zuernii (11.9%). Analysis of extrinsic associated risk factors revealed the floor type, feeding system, watering system, and herd size as significant (p < 0.05) risk factors for Eimeria spp. infections. Based on these data, it can be assumed that bovine coccidiosis infections occur ubiquitously in the country and might play an important role especially in its subclinical form by affecting production parameters in conventional cattle management systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Lopez-Osorio
- Research Group CIBAV, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Agrarian Sciences, University of Antioquia, Medellin, Colombia.
- Institute of Parasitology, Biomedical Research Center Seltersberg, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Schubertstr. 81, 35392, Giessen, Germany.
| | - D Villar
- Research Group CIBAV, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Agrarian Sciences, University of Antioquia, Medellin, Colombia
| | - K Failing
- Institute of Parasitology, Biomedical Research Center Seltersberg, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Schubertstr. 81, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - A Taubert
- Institute of Parasitology, Biomedical Research Center Seltersberg, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Schubertstr. 81, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - C Hermosilla
- Institute of Parasitology, Biomedical Research Center Seltersberg, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Schubertstr. 81, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - J J Chaparro-Gutierrez
- Research Group CIBAV, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Agrarian Sciences, University of Antioquia, Medellin, Colombia
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