Occurrence and molecular typing of Giardia isolates in pet rabbits, chinchillas, guinea pigs and ferrets collected in Europe during 2006-2012

Rabbits as reservoirs: An updated perspective of the zoonotic risk from Cryptosporidium and Giardia

Rabbits are highly abundant in many countries and can serve as reservoirs of diseases for a diversity of pathogens including the enteric protozoan parasites, Cryptosporidium and Giardia. Both parasites shed environmentally robust environmental stages (oo/cysts) and have been responsible for numerous waterborne outbreaks of diseases. Cryptosporidium hominis and C. parvum are responsible for most infections in humans, while Giardia duodenalis assemblages A and B, cause most human cases of giardiasis. Cryptosporidium cuniculus, the dominant species infecting rabbits, is the only spceies other than C. hominis and C. parvum to have caused a waterborne outbreak of gastritis, which occurred in the United Kingdom in 2008. This review examines the prevalence of Cryptosporidium and Giardia species in rabbits to better understand the public health risks of contamination of water sources with Cryptosporidium and Giardia oo/cysts from rabbits. Despite the abundance of C. cuniculus in rabbits, reports in humans are relatively rare, with the exception of the United Kingdom and New Zealand, and reports of C. cuniculus in humans from the United Kingdom have declined substantially since the 2008 outbreak. Subtyping of C. cuniculus has supported the potential for zoonotic transmission. Relatively few studies have been conducted on Giardia, but assemblage B dominates. However, improved typing methods are required to better understand the transmission dynamics of Giardia assemblages in rabbits. Similarly, it is not well understood if pet rabbits or contaminated water are the main source of C. cuniculus infections in humans. Well-planned studies using high-resolution typing tools are required to understand the transmission dynamics better and quantify the public health risk of Cryptosporidium and Giardia from rabbits.

Critters and contamination: Zoonotic protozoans in urban rodents and water quality

Rodents represent the single largest group within mammals and host a diverse array of zoonotic pathogens. Urbanisation impacts wild mammals, including rodents, leading to habitat loss but also providing new resources. Urban-adapted (synanthropic) rodents, such as the brown rat (R. norvegicus), black rat (R. rattus), and house mouse (Mus musculus), have long successfully adapted to living close to humans and are known carriers of zoonotic pathogens. Two important enteric, zoonotic protozoan parasites, carried by rodents, include Cryptosporidium and Giardia. Their environmental stages (oocysts/cysts), released in faeces, can contaminate surface and wastewaters, are resistant to common drinking water disinfectants and can cause water-borne related gastritis outbreaks. At least 48 species of Cryptosporidium have been described, with C. hominis and C. parvum responsible for the majority of human infections, while Giardia duodenalis assemblages A and B are the main human-infectious assemblages. Molecular characterisation is crucial to assess the public health risk linked to rodent-related water contamination due to morphological overlap between species. This review explores the global molecular diversity of these parasites in rodents, with a focus on evaluating the zoonotic risk from contamination of water and wasterwater with Cryptosporidium and Giardia oocysts/cysts from synanthropic rodents. Analysis indicates that while zoonotic Cryptosporidium and Giardia are prevalent in farmed and pet rodents, host-specific Cryptosporidium and Giardia species dominate in urban adapted rodents, and therefore the risks posed by these rodents in the transmission of zoonotic Cryptosporidium and Giardia are relatively low. Many knowledge gaps remain however, and therefore understanding the intricate dynamics of these parasites in rodent populations is essential for managing their impact on human health and water quality. This knowledge can inform strategies to reduce disease transmission and ensure safe drinking water in urban and peri‑urban areas.

The opportunistic protist, Giardia intestinalis, occurs in gut-healthy humans in a high-income country

Giardia intestinalis, a cosmopolitan gastrointestinal protist, is detected mainly in patients with clinical giardiasis in high-income countries. In contrast, there is very little information on the presence of Giardia in asymptomatic individuals. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the presence and prevalence of Giardia in gut-healthy volunteers in the Czech Republic and to perform a comparative evaluation of different diagnostic methods, since Giardia diagnostics is complicated. Our results confirmed that the qPCR method is the most sensitive method for detecting Giardia and revealed a prevalence of 7% (22/296) in asymptomatic individuals. In most cases, the colonization intensity ranged from 10-1-101. A conventional PCR protocol targeting the TPI gene was used to identify the assemblages. However, this protocol had limited sensitivity for Giardia amplification, effectively detecting colonization above an intensity of 104. In addition, Giardia was detected in 19% of the animals, which were closely associated with the study participants. However, due to methodological limitations, zoonotic transmission could not be clearly confirmed. Notably, contact with animals proved to be the only factor that had a significant impact on the incidence of Giardia in gut-healthy humans.

First report of Giardia duodenalis in pet rabbits in Brazil

Giardia duodenalis is a flagellate protozoan that multiplies in the small intestine of a wide variety of hosts, animals and humans. It has a worldwide distribution, however it is considered a neglected disease by the World Health Organization (WHO). Nowadays, rabbits are being chosen as pets, especially by children. There are already reports of the occurrence of G. duodenalis in rabbits from other countries, but research has not been carried out in Brazil yet. Thus, the objective of our work was to verify the occurrence and molecularly characterize G. duodenalis that affect pet rabbits, through the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in the northwest region of the state of São Paulo, Brazil. Fecal samples from 100 rabbits were collected, which later underwent a process of DNA extraction and amplification by nested-PCR (nPCR), using the SSU rRNA gene, and β-giardin (bg), glutamate dehydrogenase (gdh) and triosephosphate isomerase (tpi) to determine the assemblage. A questionnaire was answered by the owners with information about gender, age, deworming, diarrhea, water source, food, place of residence and contact with other animals. From those samples, 40 were positive for G. duodenalis. Good quality of the SSU rRNA gene by nPCR were obtained from two samples. For the first time, we report the occurrence of G. duodenalis assemblage A on pet rabbits in Brazil.

Iberian wild leporidae as hosts of zoonotic enteroparasites in Mediterranean ecosystems of Southern Spain

Wild lagomorphs including rabbits and hares can act as natural carriers or reservoirs of bacterial and parasitic zoonotic diseases. However, little is known on the epidemiology and potential public health significance of intestinal eukaryotes in wild leporids. We examined faecal samples from European wild rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus, n = 438) and Iberian hares (Lepus granatensis, n = 111) collected in the Autonomous Region of Andalusia in southern Spain during 2012-2021. We searched for the presence of DNA from the main intestinal protist and microsporidial pathogens of veterinary and public health concerns using molecular methods (PCR followed by Sanger and next-generation sequencing). Giardia duodenalis was the most prevalent species found (27.8%, 153/550; 95% CI: 24.1-31.8), followed by Cryptosporidium spp. (1.3%, 7/550; 95% CI: 0.5-2.6), Blastocystis sp. (1.1%, 6/550; 95% CI: 0.4-2.4) and Encephalitozoon intestinalis (0.2%, 1/550; 95% CI: 0.0-10.1). All samples tested negative for Enterocytozoon bieneusi. Sequence analyses revealed the presence of sub-assemblage BIV (n = 1) within G. duodenalis, and Cryptosporidium cuniculus (n = 6) and Cryptosporidium andersoni (n = 1) within Cryptosporidium. The presence of ruminant-adapted C. andersoni is indicative of a potential cross-species transmission event, although a spurious infection (mechanical carriage) cannot be ruled out. Samples assigned to C. cuniculus belonged to the gp60 subtype families Va (n = 3) and Vb (n = 2). The six Blastocystis-positive samples were identified as ST2 (n = 3) and ST1 + ST2 (n = 3). Our molecular results suggest that wild rabbits and hares were primarily infected by leporid-adapted species of eukaryotic pathogens. However, the occasional findings of zoonotic G. duodenalis sub-assemblage BIV, Blastocystis sp. ST1 and ST2, and Encephalitozoon intestinalis could be of public health relevance.

Is there any change in the prevalence of intestinal or cardiopulmonary parasite infections in companion animals (dogs and cats) in Germany between 2004-2006 and 2015-2017? An assessment of the impact of the first ESCCAP guidelines

Main objective of the present nationwide study was to assess the impact of the ESCCAP guideline for the control of worm infections in dogs and cats 8-10 years after its first publication in Germany. A secondary aim was to determine the prevalence of canine and feline cardiopulmonary nematodes and intestinal protozoa. Faecal samples of 53,693 dogs and 26,491 cats in 2004-2006 as well as of 129,578 dogs and 45,709 cats in 2015-2017 routinely submitted by veterinarians to a private veterinary laboratory were examined using appropriate parasitological methods. In dogs, the prevalence of Toxocara and taeniid egg shedding was significantly lower in 2015-2017 (3.8 % and 0.16 %, respectively) than in 2004-2006 (4.6 % and 0.27 %, respectively). The prevalence of hookworm and Capillaria eggs was higher in the second study period (2.3 % and 0.77 %, respectively) than in the first (1.3 % and 0.6 %, respectively). For Toxascaris leonina (0.55-0.6 %) and Trichuris (0.8-0.9 %), the difference was not significant between the study periods. Dogs shed more often Angiostrongylus vasorum larvae in the second study (3.1 %) than in the first (1.0 %), whereas the prevalence of Crenosoma vulpis did not change significantly (2.2-2.6 %). Cystoisospora canis and C. ohioensis-like infections were less detected in the second study period (1.0 % and 2.1 %, respectively) than in the first (1.8 % and 2.7 %, respectively). Neospora-like oocysts and Sarcocystis sporocysts were more prevalent in the second study period (0.19 % and 0.13 %, respectively) than in the first (0.13 % and 0.06 %, respectively). The percentage of Giardia or Cryptosporidium coproantigen-positive samples was lower in the second study period (18.9 % and 6.7 %, respectively) than in the first (22.8 % and 10.0 %, respectively). In cats, the prevalence of egg shedding of T. cati, Capillaria and taeniids was significantly lower in 2015-2017 (3.5 %, 0.25 % and 0.1 %, respectively) than in 2004-2006 (4.8 %, 0.54 % and 0.22 %, respectively). No difference was recorded for hookworms (0.12-0.13 %) and Ts. leonina (0.04-0.05 %). Aelurostrongylus-like larvae were detected more often in the second study period (6.5 %) than in the first (2.6 %). Infections with Cystoisospora felis, C. rivolta, Toxoplasma-like coccids and Sarcocystis were less prevalent in the second study period (1.9 %, 0.7 %, 0.24 % and 0.02 %, respectively) than in the first (2.7 %, 1.1 %, 0.36 % and 0.1 %, respectively). The percentage of Giardia or Cryptosporidium coproantigen-positive samples was significantly lower in the second study period (10.6 % and 4.8 %, respectively) than in the first (15.4 % and 8.3 %, respectively). Although these results indicate a decline of the occurrence of most canine and feline intestinal parasites in Germany over the years, a transmission risk of zoonotic parasites remains. Therefore, the control of helminth infections in domestic dogs and cats continues to be a challenge for veterinarians and pet owners.

Ocurrence of enteroparasites with zoonotic potential in animals of the rural area of San Andres, Chimborazo, Ecuador

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this research was the identification of the enteroparasites harbored by the animals of the San Andrés community, to evaluate their role as susceptible hosts and sources of infection for other animals, humans (zoonoses), as well as parasite forms spreaders to the environment in this rural area, located in the province of Chimborazo, Ecuadorian Andean region.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study was carried out combining 3 coproparasitological techniques: direct examination, Ritchie and Ziehl-Neelsen in 300 animal stool samples RESULTS: Blastocystis sp., Entamoeba spp., Giardia spp., Balantidium spp., Cryptosporidium spp., Ascaris spp., Toxocara spp., Ancylostoma spp., Strongylida, Hymenolepis nana and Echinococcus spp., were detected. Infection by protozoa (87.3%) was higher than helminths (31.0%). All cattle, sheep and guinea pigs were found parasitized, and the presence of Blastocystis sp., Entamoeba spp. and Cryptosporidium spp. by all groups of animals stands out. It is also remarkable the presence of Giardia spp. in swine (19.2%), big herbivores-livestock (11.5%), leporids (8.3%) and carnivores (5.9%); Balantidium spp. in swine (19.2%), big herbivores-livestock (5.8%) and carnivores (1.2%); Hymenolepis nana in guinea pigs (2.1%); and Toxocara spp. (15.7%), Echinococcus spp. (9.6%) and Ancylostoma spp. (6.0%) in dogs.

CONCLUSION

Animals from San Andrés have a wide spectrum of intestinal parasitic forms in their feces, being a source of infection to other animals and humans, and a source of contamination of the environment, posing a risk factor and reinforcing the idea of the need for more effective treatments and hygienic measures to improve livestock production and cutting its transmission.

Zoonotic giardiasis: an update

Giardia duodenalis is a common intestinal parasite in various hosts, with the disease giardiasis being a zoonosis. The use of molecular typing tools has improved our understanding of the distribution and zoonotic potential of G. duodenalis genotypes in different animals. The present review summarizes recent data on the distribution of G. duodenalis genotypes in humans and animals in different areas. The dominance of G. duodenalis assemblages A and B in humans and common occurrence of host-adapted assemblages in most domesticated animals suggests that zoonotic giardiasis is probably less common than believed and could be attributed mainly to contact with or contamination from just a few species of animals such as nonhuman primates, equines, rabbits, guinea pigs, chinchillas, and beavers. Future studies should be directed to advanced genetic characterization of isolates from well-designed epidemiological investigations, especially comparative analyses of isolates from humans and animals living in the same household or community. This will likely lead to better understanding of zoonotic transmission of G. duodenalis in different environmental and socioeconomic settings.

Effects of Tinidazole on Food Intake in Chinchillas (Chinchilla lanigera)

Tinidazole is a second-generation nitroimidazole compound that is used as an antimicrobial to treat anaerobic bacterialand protozoal infections in humans and, less frequently, in veterinary medicine. However, metronidazole, another secondgeneration nitroimidazole, is more commonly used. Nonetheless, tinidazole has proven to be a superior therapy for parasitic infections in humans, particularly in the treatment of giardiasis. Furthermore, in chinchillas, metronidazole has been shown to cause a clinically relevant reduction in food intake after oral administration at published dosages. This study's objective was to evaluate the effect of orally administered tinidazole on food intake in healthy chinchillas. In 2 randomized, placebocontrolled,blinded, crossover studies, tinidazole was evaluated at 2 single high doses (100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg PO, n =9) and a repeated dosing schedule at a lower dose (20 mg/kg PO q12h for 10 doses, n = 12). Food intake was measured over24-h periods before and after drug administration. The single-dose treatment groups both displayed significantly reducedfood intake (200 mg/kg: -26 ± 21%; 100 mg/kg: -9 ± 21%, P < 0.01) as compared with the control group during the first 24 hafter drug administration. Food intake returned to pretreatment values within 4-5 d. Repeated administration at 20 mg/kg q12h was not associated with any significant changes in food intake. No other adverse effects were noted during this study. Tinidazole administration at single higher doses resulted in an acute self-limiting reduction in food intake. In comparison, repeated administration of lower doses (20 mg/kg PO q12h) had no significant effects on food intake in healthy chinchillas. Therefore, tinidazole may be a more suitable drug for treating Giardia and anaerobic bacterial infections in this species than the more commonly used metronidazole.

Real-Time PCR for Molecular Detection of Zoonotic and Non-Zoonotic Giardia spp. in Wild Rodents

Giardiasis in humans is a gastrointestinal disease transmitted by the potentially zoonotic Giardia duodenalis genotypes (assemblages) A and B. Small wild rodents such as mice and voles are discussed as potential reservoirs for G. duodenalis but are predominantly populated by the two rodent species Giardia microti and Giardia muris. Currently, the detection of zoonotic and non-zoonotic Giardia species and genotypes in these animals relies on cumbersome PCR and sequencing approaches of genetic marker genes. This hampers the risk assessment of potential zoonotic Giardia transmissions by these animals. Here, we provide a workflow based on newly developed real-time PCR schemes targeting the small ribosomal RNA multi-copy gene locus to distinguish G. muris, G. microti and G. duodenalis infections. For the identification of potentially zoonotic G. duodenalis assemblage types A and B, an established protocol targeting the single-copy gene 4E1-HP was used. The assays were specific for the distinct Giardia species or genotypes and revealed an analytical sensitivity of approximately one or below genome equivalent for the multi-copy gene and of about 10 genome equivalents for the single-copy gene. Retesting a biobank of small rodent samples confirmed the specificity. It further identified the underlying Giardia species in four out of 11 samples that could not be typed before by PCR and sequencing. The newly developed workflow has the potential to facilitate the detection of potentially zoonotic and non-zoonotic Giardia species in wild rodents.

Prevalence and multi-locus genotyping of Giardia duodenalis in rabbits from Shaanxi province in northwestern China

Giardia duodenalis is an important parasite with veterinary and public health significance worldwide. The presence and zoonotic assemblages of G. duodenalis have previously been reported in rabbits. In this study, to understand the infection status of G. duodenalis in rabbits from Shaanxi province, a total of 537 fecal samples were collected from two breeds of rabbits in four age groups (<30 days, 31–90 days, 91–200 days and >200 days) from four geographical origins (Fengxiang, Yangling, Tongchuan, and Shanyang). The presence of G. duodenalis in these samples was assessed using molecular assays based on beta-giardin (bg). The glutamate dehydrogenase (gdh) and triosephosphate isomerase (tpi) loci were then amplified in the bg-positive samples for multi-locus genotype (MLG) analysis. The total prevalence of G. duodenalis in these rabbits was 3.54% (19/537). Giardia duodenalis infection was found in both breeds of rabbits, and in all farms and age groups, but with no statistically significant differences related to these factors (p > 0.05). Two assemblages, including B and E, were identified, with the former the predominant assemblage detected in both breeds, and in all age groups and farms. Sequence analysis revealed 2 (named as rbg1-2), 1 (named as rtpi1), and 2 (named as rgdh1-2) haplotypes at the gene loci of bg, tpi, and gdh, respectively, forming a multilocus genotype (MLG) of assemblage B (rbg1, rtpi1, and rgdh1). These findings reveal the significant zoonotic potential and genetic diversity of G. duodenalis in rabbits in Shaanxi Province, PR China.

Occurrence and Multi-Locus Analysis of Giardia duodenalis in Coypus (Myocastor coypus) in China

Giardia duodenalis is a major gastrointestinal parasite found globally in both humans and animals. This work examined the occurrence of G. duodenalis in coypus (Myocastor coypus) in China. Multi-locus analysis was conducted to evaluate the level of genetic variation and the potential zoonotic role of the isolates. In total, 308 fecal samples were collected from seven farms in China and subjected to PCR screening to reveal G. duodenalis. Notably, G. duodenalis was detected in 38 (12.3%) specimens from assemblages A (n = 2) and B (n = 36). Positive samples were further characterized by PCR and nucleotide sequencing of the triose phosphate isomerase (tpi), beta giardin (bg), and glutamate dehydrogenase (gdh) genes. Multi-locus genotyping yielded 10 novel multi-locus genotypes (MLGs) (one MLG and nine MLGs for assemblages A and B, respectively). Based on the generated phylogenetic tree, AI-novel 1 clustered more closely with MLG AI-2. Furthermore, within the assemblage B phylogenetic analysis, the novel assemblage B MLGs were identified as BIV and clustered in the MLG BIV branch. This is the first report of G. duodenalis in coypus in China. The presence of zoonotic genotypes and subtypes of G. duodenalis in coypus suggests that these animals can transmit human giardiasis.

Rapid on-site diagnosis of canine giardiosis: time versus performance

BACKGROUND

Infections by protozoans of the genus Giardia are a common cause of diarrhea in dogs. Canine giardiosis constitutes a disease with a zoonotic potential; however, it is often underestimated due to its challenging diagnosis. The objective of the study was to assess the diagnostic performance of an immunochromatographic strip test (SpeedTM Giardia, Virbac, France) comparing it with microscopy (zinc sulfate flotation) by utilizing the combination of an enzyme immunoassay (ProSpecTTM Giardia EZ Microplate Assay, Oxoid Ltd., UK) and the PCR as the gold standard. A positive result in both ELISA and PCR was set as the gold standard.

METHODS

Initially, fecal samples from dogs with clinical signs compatible with giardiosis were tested with the SpeedTM Giardia test and separated into two groups of 50 samples each: group A (positive) and group B (negative). Thereafter, all samples were examined by zinc sulfate centrifugal flotation technique and assayed by the ProSpecTTM Giardia Microplate Assay and PCR. The performance of the SpeedTM Giardia and zinc sulfate centrifugal flotation tests were calculated estimating sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative likelihood ratio; the chi-square and McNemar tests were used for the comparison of the two methods.

RESULTS

Giardia cysts were not detected by microscopy in 16 out of the 50 samples (32%) of group A and in none of group B samples. Eight out of 50 samples in group B (16%) were tested positive both with the ProSpecTTM Giardia Microplate Assay and PCR. Fecal examination with the SpeedTM Giardia test was more sensitive (86.2%) than the parasitological method (58.6%, P < 0.001) while the specificity of both methods was 100%.

CONCLUSIONS

The SpeedTM Giardia test is an easy-to-perform diagnostic method for the detection of Giardia spp., which can increase laboratory efficiency by reducing time and cost and decrease underdiagnosis of Giardia spp. infections. This immunochromatographic strip test may be routinely exploited when a rapid and reliable diagnosis is required, other diagnostic techniques are unavailable and microscopy expertise is inefficient. In negative dogs with compatible clinical signs of giardiosis, it is recommended either to repeat the exam or proceed with further ELISA and PCR testing.

Occurrence and Molecular Typing of Giardia psittaci in Parakeets in Germany-A Case Study

A grey-hooded parakeet (Psilopsiagon aymara) and two budgerigars (Melopsittacus undulatus) from different owners presented with decreased activity, vomitus, and diarrhea. A microscopic examination of feces showed trophozoites of the protozoan flagellate Giardia. A commercial immunochromatographic dipstick test for Giardia sp. antigens confirmed the infection. These findings were assured by PCR of the small subunit ribosomal RNA (SSU rRNA) gene and coproantigen ELISA. Sequencing of PCR products of the SSU rRNA (292 bp) and β-giardin genes (511 bp) identified Giardia psittaci as the species involved. Therefore, our results show that a GSA 65-based coproantigen ELISA, which was established for diagnosis of Giardia duodenalis is applicable for the detection of G. psittaci. A treatment with ronidazole was started. Additionally, fecal examination and dissection of the dead birds revealed coinfection with the fungal pathogen Macrorhabdus ornithogaster. One budgerigar survived and repeatedly tested negative after treatment with ronidazole. The described cases indicate that a single infection with G. psittaci has a good prognosis, whereas the prognosis is poor when coinfections occur, especially with M. ornithogaster.

Giardia microti in pet Microtus guentheri: Evidence of a parasite never detected in Italy

The genus Giardia includes several species distinguished by morphological, biological and molecular features. Currently, eight species within the genus are retained as valid. In Italy no identification of Giardia species other than Giardia duodenalis has been so far reported. Fecal samples were collected from two Günther's Voles (Microtus guentheri) positive to Giardia cysts by microscopic investigation and immunofluorescence. The voles were born in Milan (Northern Italy) from two gravid females imported from the Netherlands and kept for sale in a pet shop in Varese (Northern Italy). Positive feces were subjected to a nested PCR to amplify a 18S rRNA fragment for molecular characterization. A phylogenetic analysis was conducted to compare the obtained sequence with those of all other Giardia species available in GenBank for the 18S locus, using the Maximum Likelihood (ML) method by R software. Sequence analyses unambiguously identified the isolates as belonging to G. microti, showing 99% of identity with those of its isolates available in GenBank. A well-defined cluster, supported by significant bootstrap values and corresponding to the G. microti cluster, including sequences obtained from M. guentheri, was evidenced in the ML tree, confirming species assignment. The present finding represents the first report of G. microti from pet animals in Italy.

Companion animals as a potential source of Giardia intestinalis infection in humans in the Czech Republic - A pilot study

Giardia intestinalis is a common enteric single-celled parasite infecting both humans and animals. Its eight morphologically identical but genetically distinct groups called assemblages differ from each other in host range. While assemblages A and B infect a wide range of hosts, including humans, the other assemblages (C to H) limit their host preferences to particular animal groups only. In companion animals as Giardia hosts, genotyping data have previously shown various results depending on pet species, location, environmental or breeding conditions, and the study design. To strengthen available epidemiological data from developed countries and to evaluate the role of pets in Giardia zoonotic transmission, we investigated Giardia-positive stool samples of three pet species (54 dogs, 18 cats, and 18 chinchillas) by a sequence-based analysis of three Giardia genes (β-giardin, glutamate dehydrogenase and triose phosphate isomerase). In dog samples, we confirmed assemblage C (21/54), assemblage D (32/54), and one case of a mixed infection C + D (1/54). In cats, we found assemblage F (16/18) and assemblage A, specifically sub-assemblage AI (2/18). All Giardia samples from chinchillas were characterised as assemblage B, specifically sub-assemblage BIV (18/18). These results indicate that in the Czech Republic, pet dogs may not represent a source of Giardia infection for humans because of the presence of only canid-specific genotypes C and D. In contrast, other pets, namely, chinchillas and, to a lesser extent, cats, may pose a potential risk of Giardia transmission to owners or breeders because they can host zoonotic Giardia genotypes.

Update on Diseases in Chinchillas: 2013-2019

Chinchillas have been used mostly as fur animals and as animal models for human ontological diseases and only recently have been recognized as excellent, long-lived, and robust pet rodents. This review aims to provide updated information on emerging disease conditions in pet chinchillas, such as Streptococcus equi subsp zooepidemicus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Furthermore, this review article provides updated information on previously documented disorders, such as urolithiasis and middle ear disease, in chinchillas. This article is intended to serve as a complement to the current veterinary reference literature and to provide valuable and clinically relevant information for veterinarians treating chinchillas.

Prevalence and Genotype Distribution of Giardia duodenalis in Rabbits in Shandong Province, Eastern China

Giardia duodenalis is a zoonotic enteric parasite that can infect humans and a number of animal species including rabbits with a worldwide distribution. Infection with G. duodenalis can cause serious public health problems and significant economic losses to animal husbandry. So accurate understanding of the prevalence and genotype distribution of G. duodenalis in rabbits is necessary. In the present study, a total of 616 fecal samples were collected from rabbits in Shandong province, eastern China, and examined in G. duodenalis prevalence and genotypes by nested PCR amplification of β-giardin (bg), glutamate dehydrogenase (gdh), and triosephosphate isomerase (tpi) gene loci of G. duodenalis. Sixty-nine (11.2%) of the examined rabbit fecal samples were G. duodenalis-positive. Of them, the prevalence of G. duodenalis is 8.4% (41/490) in Rizhao city and 22.2% (28/126) in Weihai city. Breeds, region, and feeding modes were highly correlated with G. duodenalis infection in rabbits. Moreover, three genotypes (assemblages A, B, and E) were identified in rabbits at three gene loci, and the assemblage E was the dominant genotype, while the assemblage A was reported in rabbits in China for the first time. It is noticeable that two rabbits were found to be infected with two different G. duodenalis assemblages (assemblages A and E, assemblages B and E, respectively). These findings enrich the genotype distribution of G. duodenalis in rabbits and provide baseline data for preventing and controlling G. duodenalis infection in rabbits in eastern China.

Gastrointestinal Diseases of Ferrets

Disease of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract is common in ferrets. This chapter reviews diseases of the upper and lower GI tract in ferrets, discusses how to differentiate between causes of diarrhea and vomiting, and provides information to help formulate an appropriate treatment plan. Clinicians should be familiar with the more common GI disorders in ferrets and be able to recognize clinical signs and differentiate among potential diagnoses.

Basic Approach to Veterinary Care of Ferrets

The approach to preventive medicine and basic veterinary care in ferrets is very similar to that used in dogs and cats. Special equipment needs are minimal, and pet ferrets can be easily incorporated into a general small animal practice. This chapter describes the unique aspects of handling, restraint, and clinical and treatment techniques used in ferrets.

Molecular epidemiology of giardiasis from a veterinary perspective

A total of eight Giardia species are accepted. These include: Giardia duodenalis (syn. Giardia intestinalis and Giardia lamblia), which infects humans and animals, Giardia agilis, Giardia ardeae, Giardia psittaci, Giardia muris, Giardia microti, Giardia peramelis and G. cricetidarum, which infect non-human hosts including amphibians, birds, rodents and marsupials. Giardia duodenalis is a species complex consisting of eight assemblages (A-H), with assemblages A and B the dominant assemblages in humans. Molecular studies to date on the zoonotic potential of Giardia in animals are problematic and are hampered by lack of concordance between loci. Livestock (cattle, sheep, goats and pigs) are predominantly infected with G. duodenalis assemblage E, which has recently been shown to be zoonotic, followed by assemblage A. In cats and dogs, assemblages A, B, C, D and F are commonly reported but relatively few studies have conducted molecular typing of humans and their pets and the results are contradictory with some studies support zoonotic transmission but the majority of studies suggesting separate transmission cycles. Giardia also infects a broad range of wildlife hosts and although much less well studied, host-adapted species as well as G. duodenalis assemblages (A-H) have been identified. Fish and other aquatic wildlife represent a source of infection for humans with Giardia via water contamination and/or consumption of undercooked fish and interestingly, assemblage B and A predominated in the two molecular studies conducted to date. Our current knowledge of the transmission dynamics of Giardia is still poor and the development of more discriminatory typing tools such as whole genome sequencing (WGS) of Giardia isolates is therefore essential.

Multi-locus genotyping and phylogenetic analyses of Giardia intestinalis isolates from indigenous goats in Ogun State, Nigeria

Giardiasis is a common gastrointestinal disease of humans and various animal species worldwide. In this study, 302 stool samples were collected from West African Dwarf and Sokoto Red breeds of goats in Ogun State, Nigeria, and screened for Giardia intestinalis coproantigens using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The genotypes of G. intestinalis in faecal samples collected from 152 goats raised on selected farms were identified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification and sequence analyses of the small subunit ribosomal RNA (ssu rRNA), glutamate dehydrogenase (gdh), triosephosphate isomerase (tpi) and β-giardin (bg) genes. Based on ELISA, an overall prevalence of 45.7% was recorded with the infection rates in pre-weaned (60.2%) and post-weaned goat kids (51.5%) being significantly (p < 0.05) higher than in adults (28.2%). Giardia intestinalis DNA was amplified in 31.6% and 29.6% of goat faeces at the ssu rRNA and gdh loci respectively. These were genotyped at the ssu rRNA locus as assemblages B (n = 13) and E (n = 36). Similar results were observed at the gdh locus except that eight isolates contained assemblage E mixed with either assemblage A or B. Additionally, sub-assemblages BI (n = 7) and BIII (n = 2) were identified with up to four single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) occurring in these isolates. Multilocus genotypes (MLG) of all assemblage E isolates were identified using the ssu rRNA and gdh loci while MLG of all isolates containing assemblage B and mixed assemblages were determined after further typing at the tpi and bg loci. Forty-two MLG isolates were identified and these comprised 32, 8 and 2 (sub)-assemblage E, BI and BIII respectively. All isolates with mixed assemblages at the gdh locus were consequently designated as assemblage E by MLG. The assemblage E isolates from goats were genetically related to isolates from cattle, sheep and goats while the assemblage B isolates were related to isolates of human, pig and lemur origin. This suggests that G. intestinalis isolated from goats bred in Ogun State, Nigeria may be capable of cross-species transmission and may be of zoonotic importance.

Endoparasites of Domesticated Animals That Originated in the Neo-Tropics (New World Tropics)

This review serves to summarize parasites found in Domesticated animals which were found in the Neo-Tropics. Indigenous domesticated Neo-tropical animals include South American camelids, (Lama gunacoa, Lama glama, Lama pacos, Vicuna vicuna), guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus), chinchillas (Chinchilla lanigera), turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo) and ducks (Cairina moschata, Anas platyrhynchos, Dendrocyga autumnalis). These animals were chosen due to their origin of existence (Neo-tropics) and over time these animals became domesticated and were distributed throughout the world. Over eighty (80) references were collected for this review and the papers spanned over eighty (80) years from 1934 to 2018. The gastrointestinal parasites reported for each animal were tabulated and their effects in the animal noted. Parasites reported in domesticated Neo-tropical animals had little to no effect on wild and free ranging animals with a few cases of illness and decreased productivity. The majority of articles viewed these animals as reservoir host which can infect humans and other domesticated livestock. It must also be noted that research done in the past did not focus on the effect these parasites had on these animals but only observed their potential as reservoirs for parasitic diseases.

Prevalence and multilocus genotypes of Giardia duodenalis infecting pigs in Ogun state, Nigeria

Giardia duodenalis is an intestinal flagellated protozoan parasite that is infectious to humans and a wide range of animals worldwide. While varying prevalence rates have been reported in pigs worldwide, there are currently no published reports on the genotypes of Giardia infecting pigs in any African country. The present study is on the prevalence and genotypes of G. duodenalis in 209 pigs raised on four farms in Ogun State Nigeria. Using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit, Giardia duodenalis coproantigens were detected on all farms and in 25.4% (53/209) of pigs sampled. However, there was no significant influence (p > 0.05) of age, sex and stool consistencies of the pigs on the distribution of the infection. Genotyping of Giardia duodenalis in all ELISA-positive samples, achieved by the amplification of the small subunit ribosomal RNA (ssu rRNA), glutamate dehydrogenase (gdh), triosephosphate isomerase (tpi) and beta giardin (bg) genes, identified 14 and 37 assemblage B and E isolates respectively while mixed infection by both assemblages was recorded in two isolates. Novel nucleotide substitutions were identified in four assemblage B isolates at the ssu rRNA locus. Genetic diversity was observed among the assemblage B isolates after multiple alignment analyses of the gdh, tpi and bg sequences whereby sub-assemblages BII (n = 2), BIII (n = 9) and BIV (n = 3) were identified. The assemblage B isolates from pigs in this study were phylogenetically related to isolates from humans, marmoset and cattle while the assemblage E isolates were related to isolates from sheep, goats and cattle. These findings suggest that pigs in southwest Nigeria predominantly harbour G. duodenalis isolates that could be infectious to other animal species and to a lesser extent, isolates that may be of zoonotic importance.

First report of Giardia duodenalis infection in bamboo rats

Background

The zoonotic parasite, Giardia duodenalis (syns. G. lamblia and G. intestinalis), has been widely reported in humans and animals, including rodents. The bamboo rat, a rodent species belonged to the subfamily Rhizomyinae, is farmed in China because of its medicinal and edible values. However, no information of G. duodenalis infection was available in bamboo rats prior to the present study. Here, the prevalence and genetic diversity of G. duodenalis in bamboo rats from Hunan Province of China were investigated.

Results

Of 480 faecal samples collected from six farms located in four cities (Wugang, Chenzhou, Huaihua and Jishou) of Hunan Province, 52 (10.8%) were positive for G. duodenalis infection by using a nested PCR approach targeting the beta giardin (bg) gene. Significant differences (P < 0.01) in prevalence were found among different age groups and geographical localities, and among different farms in Wugang city. Sequence analysis revealed existence of the zoonotic assemblage B and genetic diversity of G. duodenalis in these animals. Multilocus genotyping analysis also indicated broad genetic diversity of assemblage B isolates in these bamboo rats.

Conclusions

This is the first report of the infection and genetic variations of G. duodenalis in bamboo rats. These findings will provide basic data for implementing effective strategies to control giardiasis in bamboo rats.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s13071-018-3111-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

A natural zoonotic giardiasis: Infection of a child via Giardia cysts in pet chinchilla droppings

Here, we report a case of direct zoonotic transmission of giardiasis between a pet chinchilla and a human. Microscopic and molecular examinations of stool samples from a child and samples of chinchilla droppings revealed cysts/DNA of Giardia intestinalis. The transmission from the chinchilla to the child has been confirmed as coprophagous after the 1-year-old toddler ingested pet chinchilla droppings. Molecular analysis of the gdh gene from both hosts classified the G. intestinalis cysts into the assemblage B genetic group, which has been previously shown to be characteristic of both human and chinchilla giardiasis. Both Giardia sub-assemblages BIII and BIV were present in the chinchilla droppings, whereas only the sub-assemblage BIV was isolated from the child's stool sample. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of a true zoonotic transmission of giardiasis, supporting the zoonotic potential of assemblage B.

Multilocus genotyping of Giardia duodenalis infecting rabbits in Ogun State, Nigeria

Giardiasis is a cosmopolitan gastrointestinal protozoal parasite that infects humans and various animals worldwide. To assess the zoonotic transmission potential of Giardia, molecular characterization is required. We are unaware of any report on the genotypes of Giardia infecting rabbits in Nigeria. Molecular detection and genotyping of Giardia duodenalis were conducted in a herd of adult Chinchilla rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) managed on the Teaching and Research farm of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta located in a southwestern state of Nigeria by analysis of the small-subunit ribosomal RNA (ssu rRNA), glutamate dehydrogenase (gdh), triosephosphate isomerase (tpi) and beta-giardin (bg) genes. An overall prevalence of 72.3% (60/83) was recorded in the rabbits with no statistically significant (p > .05) influence of sex on the distribution of the infection in the herd. All the 19 isolates amplified at the four genetic loci were identified as G. duodenalis assemblage BIV by multiple alignment analysis of their consensus sequences. Novel nucleotide substitutions were identified in two isolates at the ssu rRNA locus. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that all ssu rRNA genotypes were closely related to G. duodenalis assemblage B of cattle and human origin. Findings of this study suggest that the rabbits harbour potentially zoonotic assemblage BIV that portends a high risk to students and staff of the University who are in regular contact with the animals.

Molecular Characterization of Cryptosporidium spp., Giardia duodenalis, and Enterocytozoon bieneusi in Rabbits in Xinjiang, China

A total of 321 rabbit fecal samples were collected from 10 farms in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, China. The prevalence of Cryptosporidium spp., Giardia duodenalis, and Enterocytozoon bieneusi in the samples was 3.4% (11/321), 1.9% (6/321), and 2.8% (9/321), respectively. Small subunit ribosomal RNA (SSU rRNA) gene sequence analysis identified all 11 Cryptosporidium-positive samples as C. cuniculus. Further subtyping based on the 60-kDaglycoprotein locus (gp60) identified five of the C. cuniculus isolates as subtype VbA24. G. duodenalis genotypes were determined by multilocus sequence typing of the SSU rRNA, triosephosphate isomerase, β-giardin and glutamate dehydrogenase loci, which confirmed that six G. duodenalis isolates belonged to subtype BIV of assemblage B. Analysis of the internal transcribed spacer region, showed that five, three, and one E. bieneusi isolates belonged to genotypes J, BEB8, and Type IV, respectively. These results suggest that Cryptosporidium spp., G. duodenalis, and E. bieneusi isolates from rabbits in China have zoonotic potential.

Occurrence and molecular characterization of Giardia duodenalis cysts and Cryptosporidium oocysts in raw water samples from the Rímac River, Peru

Giardia and Cryptosporidium are potentially pathogenic protozoa which are ubiquitous in ambient surface water. The present study included 60 samples of surface water from three sampling sites from the Rímac River, Lima and Callao, Peru, to detect the occurrence of Giardia spp. and Cryptosporidium spp. and to perform molecular characterization of specimens found. Water samples were concentrated using the membrane filtration technique, and following elution, cysts and oocysts were visualized by direct immunofluorescence assay (IFA). For molecular characterization, tpi and bg gene fragments and 18S rRNA were amplified by nested PCR for Giardia and Cryptosporidium, respectively, followed by sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. Giardia cysts were found in 93.3% of the analyzed samples, whereas Cryptosporidium oocysts were detected in 15%. The positivity of the Giardia cysts was 86.6% (n = 26) in 2014, while Cryptosporidium oocysts were not detected. In 2015, both protozoa were found in raw water samples, with all 30 samples collected positive for Giardia cysts (100.0%) and 9 positive for Cryptosporidium oocysts (30.0%). Oocysts were detected in 20.0% of water samples from sites 1 (mean 5.25 oocysts/L) and 2 (mean 52.3 oocysts/L), while at site 3, oocysts were detected in 50.0% of raw water samples (mean 193.6 oocysts/L). The presence of Giardia duodenalis assemblage A was confirmed in several samples by the phylogenetic positioning of the bg and tpi genes, and the sub-assemblage AII was predominant (8/9). Sequencing for Cryptosporidium resulted in profiles compatible with Cryptosporidium hominis, Cryptosporidium meleagridis, and Cryptosporidium baileyi. This is the first time that the presence of G. duodenalis assemblage A/sub-assemblage AII and Cryptosporidium species has been reported in surface water samples in Peru. These Cryptosporidium species and the Giardia duodenalis assemblage are associated with human disease which highlights the potential risk to public health and the need to increase environmental monitoring measures to protect this water body.

Prevalence and risk factors of Giardia duodenalis in domestic rabbbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) in Jilin and Liaoning province, northeastern China

BACKGROUND

Giardia duodenalis is one of the most important intestinal parasites that can infect virtually all animals, including rabbits and humans. However, there is little information regarding the prevalence and genotypes of G. duodenalis in domestic rabbits in China.

METHODS

A total of 426 rabbit fecal samples (136 from Shenyang City, 174 from Changchun City, and 116 from Jilin City) were examined by Lugol's iodine staining with microscopy analysis, and the positive samples were genotyped at the triosephosphate isomerase (tpi) and the beta giardin (bg) gene loci using nested PCR.

RESULTS

Forty-two (9.86%) out of 426 rabbit fecal samples were G. duodenalis-positive under microscopy analysis, and the highest G. duodenalis infection rate was 23.08% on farm 6. The prevalence of G. duodenalis in rabbits from different cities ranged from 1.47% to 14.37%. Among different age groups, G. duodenalis prevalence in rabbits ranged from 5.41% to 12.58%. The prevalence of G. duodenalis in outdoor rabbits and indoor rabbits was 14.29% and 6.77%, respectively. In the present study, region and farming mode were highly correlated with G. duodenalis infection in rabbits. All 42 G. duodenalis isolates were successfully amplified and sequenced at the tpi and bg loci, and only G. duodenalis assemblage B were identified.

CONCLUSION

This study not only further confirmed the dominance of G. duodenalis assemblage B in rabbits, but also further improved the foundation data concerning the distribution of G. duodenalis assemblages in China.

Occurrence of Giardia duodenalis assemblages in farmed long-tailed chinchillas Chinchilla lanigera (Rodentia) from Romania

Background

Giardia duodenalis is a parasitic protist that infects a large number of species, being localized in the small intestine. Two of the eight recognized assemblages have zoonotic potential, but studies regarding their distribution in less important pet or farm species are scarce. Of these species, the long-tailed chinchilla is a host for Giardia spp., although data on the spread of infection and assemblages involved are confined. The present work aimed to determine the prevalence of Giardia infection and assemblage identification in farmed chinchillas in Romania. A total of 341 fecal samples were collected from 5 farms and microscopically examined using flotation test based on saturated sodium chloride solution. DNA from all positive samples was extracted and identified by PCR targeting the gdh gene.

Results

The overall prevalence of Giardia infection was 55.7% (190/341); there was no statistically significant difference (P = 0.25) in prevalence between young animals (58.8%) and adults (52.6%). Assemblages B (151/190), D (33/190) and E (6/190) were identified. Among assemblage B, sub-assemblages BIII (6/151) and BIV (145/151) were determined.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that Giardia spp. infection is highly prevalent in farmed chinchillas from Romania, and the sub-assemblages identified are potentially zoonotic.

Giardia duodenalis Infections in Humans and Other Animals in China

Giardia duodenalis is an important zoonotic pathogen in both public and veterinary health, and has been genotyped into at least eight assemblages (A-H), each with a distinct host range. In recent years, this intestinal protozoan parasite has been identified widely in humans and various other animals, and has even been recorded in environmental contaminants. Along with whole genome sequencing of G. duodenalis, multilocus sequence typing is increasingly being used to characterize G. duodenalis isolates. Here, we review the epidemiology, genotyping, and subtyping of G. duodenalis from humans and a wide range of other animals, as well as from wastewater, in China.

Molecular epidemiologic tools for waterborne pathogens Cryptosporidium spp. and Giardia duodenalis

Molecular diagnostic tools have played an important role in improving our understanding of the transmission of Cryptosporidium spp. and Giardia duodenalis, which are two of the most important waterborne parasites in industrialized nations. Genotyping tools are frequently used in the identification of host-adapted Cryptosporidium species and G. duodenalis assemblages, allowing the assessment of infection sources in humans and public health potential of parasites found in animals and the environment. In contrast, subtyping tools are more often used in case linkages, advanced tracking of infections sources, and assessment of disease burdens attributable to anthroponotic and zoonotic transmission. More recently, multilocus typing tools have been developed for population genetic characterizations of transmission dynamics and delineation of mechanisms for the emergence of virulent subtypes. With the recent development in next generation sequencing techniques, whole genome sequencing and comparative genomic analysis are increasingly used in characterizing Cryptosporidium spp. and G. duodenalis. The use of these tools in epidemiologic studies has identified significant differences in the transmission of Cryptosporidium spp. in humans between developing countries and industrialized nations, especially the role of zoonotic transmission in human infection. Geographic differences are also present in the distribution of G. duodenalis assemblages A and B in humans. In contrast, there is little evidence for widespread zoonotic transmission of giardiasis in both developing and industrialized countries. Differences in virulence have been identified among Cryptosporidium species and subtypes, and possibly between G. duodenalis assemblages A and B, and genetic recombination has been identified as one mechanism for the emergence of virulent C. hominis subtypes. These recent advances are providing insight into the epidemiology of waterborne protozoan parasites in both developing and developed countries.

A survey for potentially zoonotic gastrointestinal parasites in domestic cavies in Cameroon (Central Africa)

Background

Farm animals are usually suspected to transmit infections to humans. Domestic cavies (Cavia porcellus) are hosts to a variety of pathogens, some of which are zoonotic. Several parasites including the protozoa Giardia spp. and Cryptosporidium spp. may be causative agents of gastrointestinal disorders in domestic cavies and humans. The aim of the study was to investigate the occurrence of potentially zoonotic protozoa as well as any potential zoonotic gastrointestinal parasite in domestic cavies raised under a semi extensive system in the rural areas of Cameroon.

Results

Giardia/Cryptosporidium antigens were detected in 12.90% of cavies. Helminthe eggs were found in 1.52% of animals. The prevalence of Paraspidodera uncinata, Heligmosomoides polygyrus (also known as Nematospiroides dubius) and Trichuris sp. was 1% (4/397), 0.3% (1/397), and 0.3% (1/397), respectively. Presence of Giardia/Cryptosporidium was unrelated to the occurrence of diarrhea, as none of the positive samples was from a diarrheic individual.

Conclusion

Domestic cavies are hosts of Giardia/Cryptosporidium and appear as potential source of human giardiasis, cryptosporidiosis and infection with H. polygyrus in Cameroon. In keeping with the One Health Initiative, veterinarians and medical doctors should collaborate to address the problem of Giardia and Cryptosporidium infection in cavies and cavy breeders both in Cameroon and other countries with a similar cavy breeding system. Follow-up studies are required to further taxonomically characterize these cavy parasites and to determine their routes of transmission to humans.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12917-017-1096-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Giardia duodenalis genetic assemblages and hosts

Techniques for sub-classifying morphologically identical Giardia duodenalis trophozoites have included comparisons of the electrophoretic mobility of enzymes and of chromosomes, and sequencing of genes encoding β-giardin, triose phosphate isomerase, the small subunit of ribosomal RNA and glutamate dehydrogenase. To date, G. duodenalis organisms have been sub-classified into eight genetic assemblages (designated A–H). Genotyping of G. duodenalis organisms isolated from various hosts has shown that assemblages A and B infect the largest range of host species, and appear to be the main (or possibly only) G. duodenalis assemblages that undeniably infect human subjects. In at least some cases of assemblage A or B infection in wild mammals, there is suggestive evidence that the infection had resulted from environmental contamination by G. duodenalis cysts of human origin.

PCR-RFLP method to detect zoonotic and host-specific Giardia duodenalis assemblages in dog fecal samples

Giardia duodenalis is a zoonotic protozoan that parasitizes the upper small intestine of human and many mammals including dogs. To develop a restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) method for typing zoonotic (A, B) and host-specific (C, D) assemblages of G. duodenalis from dog, β-giardin gene was amplified with design primer pairs B3 and B4. The PCR products were digested with restriction enzyme Afa I and Msp I; then, PCR-RFLP method was compared with HRM genotyping and sequencing method for G. duodenalis from dog. The results showed that each of assemblages A-D had unique restriction pattern, which was consistent with the predictive results. Among 21 samples tested by PCR-RFLP, 1 human-derived and 8 dog-derived G. duodenalis were identified as assemblage A; 5 dog-derived G. duodenalis as assemblage C; 7 dog-derived G. duodenalis as assemblage D, which were coincided with the HRM genotyping and sequencing results. It is concluded that the PCR-RFLP is quick, easy, and accurate method for the sequence typing of G. duodenalis zoonotic and specific assemblages from dogs.

Parasitic fauna of domestic cavies in the western highlands of Cameroon (Central Africa)

BACKGROUND

Domestic cavies (Cavia porcellus) are increasingly reared in rural areas of Cameroon for meat and income generation. Unfortunately, health constraints due to various pathogens including parasites stand as one of the major obstacles to the development of cavy industry in the country. The main objective of this study was to investigate the species of gastrointestinal parasites in cavy husbandry in the western highlands of Cameroon and to detect external parasites in those animals affected with dermatological disorders.

METHODS

Pooled fecal samples were collected from 62 privately-own farms, as well as individual fecal samples from 21 animals at the Teaching and Research Farm of the University of Dschang, and examined for parasite eggs and oocysts/cysts. Ectoparasites were also collected from cavies and identified.

RESULTS

The overall infection rate with both helminthes and arthropods was 40.3 %. Ectoparasites were found in 19 out of 62 farms (30.6 %) while 12.9 % of farms were infected with helminthes. Eggs of Graphidium strigosum (8.1 %), Trichostrongylus sp. (3.2 %) and Paraspidodera uncinata (3.2 %) were found at farm level. Oocysts of Eimeria caviae and eggs of Paraspidodera uncinata were found in 14.3 and 9.5 % of examined animals respectively. Concerning ectoparasites, Cordylobia anthropophaga and Pulex sp. were observed in 25.8 % and 6.6 % of farms respectively.

CONCLUSION

The parasites are apparently composed of host-specific species in the original habitat (South America) and species acquired later from other mammals. These parasites are either deleterious to cavy health or zoonotic. Preventive measures should be put in practice to avoid their presence on farms due to their harmful effect on cavy rearing.

Prevalence of Zoonotic Giardia duodenalis Assemblage B and First Identification of Assemblage E in Rabbit Fecal Samples Isolates from Central China

Giardia duodenalis is an important zoonotic pathogen, causes diarrhea in humans and animals worldwide. To date, few data are available on the prevalence of G. duodenalis in rabbits in China. In total, 955 fecal samples were collected from rabbits during 2008-2011 in Henan Province, Central China. The overall prevalence of G. duodenalis was 8.4% (80/955) on microscopic analysis, with the highest infection rate (11.3%) in rabbits aged 91-200 d. All G. duodenalis-positive isolates were characterized at the small subunit ribosomal RNA, β-giardin (bg), glutamate dehydrogenase (gdh), and triosephosphate isomerase genes. Two assemblages and a mixed assemblage were detected in the rabbits: assemblage B (n = 26), assemblage E (n = 2), and a mixed assemblage of B and E (n = 4). Assemblage B isolates showed variability at the nucleotide sequences belonging to the so-called subtype BIV, based on analysis of multiple genes. This is the first report of G. duodenalis assemblage E in rabbits, and one novel subtype of assemblage E was identified through sequence analysis of gdh and bg genes, respectively. Our data suggest that rabbits may be reservoirs of G. duodenalis cysts potentially infectious to humans.

Multilocus genotyping of potentially zoonotic Giardia duodenalis in pet chinchillas (Chinchilla lanigera) in China

Giardia duodenalis is a common protozoan that colonizes and reproduces in the small intestine, causing giardiasis. This parasite infects a wide range of vertebrate hosts, including humans, domestic animals and wildlife. It has been suggested that chinchillas (Chinchilla lanigera) kept as domestic pets are potential reservoirs for the zoonotic transmission of G. duodenalis. In this study, 140 chinchilla samples from four cities in China were examined to determine the prevalence of G. duodenalis. Thirty-eight (27.1%) chinchillas were found to be positive for G. duodenalis. The prevalence of infection was analyzed in relation to collection site, age and sex. Molecular characterization was also carried out on the 38 chinchilla samples to determine common genotypes. G. duodenalis assemblages A and B were identified in the chinchilla samples by analysis of the small subunit ribosomal RNA (ssur RNA) gene. Genotyping at the subtype level using multiple genes (glutamate dehydrogenase (gdh), triose phosphate isomerase (tpi) and β-giardin (bg) genes) determined that the majority of assemblage A isolate sequences were identical to subtype AI. Assemblage B isolates showed variability among the nucleotide sequences belonging to subtype BIV. This is the first report of G. duodenalis in chinchillas from China. As subtype AI and BIV are associated with human infection, G. duodenalis in chinchillas should be regarded as zoonotic.

Survey of endoparasites in pet guinea pigs in Italy

Little information is available on the occurrence of endoparasites in pet guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of intestinal parasites in cavies kept as pets in southern Italy. Fresh fecal samples were randomly collected from 60 guinea pigs housed in pet shops or privately owned. All fecal samples were processed using the FLOTAC pellet technique to identify and count helminthic eggs/larvae and protozoan cysts/oocysts. In addition, the specimens were analyzed also by the Remel Xpect® Giardia/Cryptosporidium immunoassay. Intestinal parasites were detected in 19 out of 60 guinea pigs (31.7 %). Paraspidodera uncinata eggs were found in 13.3 % (8/60) of the rodents examined, Nippostrongylus-like eggs in 10 % (6/60), and finally Eimeria caviae oocysts were found in 10 % (6/60) of the animals. In one case, both E. caviae oocysts and P. uncinata eggs were found. None of the samples was positive for Cryptosporidium or Giardia. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first survey of endoparasites in pet guinea pigs in Italy.