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Elghryani N, Lawlor A, McOwan T, de Waal T. Unravelling the Effectiveness of Anthelmintic Treatments on Equine Strongyles on Irish Farms. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1958. [PMID: 38998069 PMCID: PMC11240484 DOI: 10.3390/ani14131958] [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: 05/07/2024] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Over the preceding decades, the widespread dependence on anthelmintic drugs for managing nematodes in grazing equids has given rise to resistance against commonly used anthelmintics in various countries. This study explores the prevalence of anthelmintic resistance across 44 horse farms in Ireland. Anthelmintic efficacy was evaluated through fecal egg count reduction (FECR) tests employing the mini-FLOTAC technique. Resistance to benzimidazoles was identified in 12 out of 14 farms (FECR range: 0.00% to 86.2%). Ivermectin resistance was observed on two farms, one with an FECR of 80.70% and another with an FECR of 96.10% (lower 95% high probability density interval (HPD) <90%, 11.70%). On the remaining six farms, the reduction with ivermectin still exceeded 95%. The reduced efficacy of moxidectin was noted on two farms (FECR = 86.90% and 93.50%) and on a third farm with an FECR of 99.50 and a lower HPD interval < 90% at 24.00%. In summary, these findings emphasize the urgent need for alternative strategies in equine strongyle control that reduce reliance on anthelmintics and prioritize effective management practices on Irish equine farms to hinder the impending development of drug-resistant parasite populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nagwa Elghryani
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University College Dublin, D04 W6F6 Dublin, Ireland
- Telenostic Limited, R95 WN20 Kilkenny, Ireland
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Arts and Sciences-Gamines, University of Benghazi, Benghazi 1308, Libya
| | - Amanda Lawlor
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University College Dublin, D04 W6F6 Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Theo de Waal
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University College Dublin, D04 W6F6 Dublin, Ireland
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Molento MB, Pires LSA, Dall'Anese J, Yoshitani UY, Almeida T. Prevalence and risk factors of gastrointestinal helminths infection in Brazilian horses: A retrospective study of a 12-year (2008-2019) diagnostic data. Res Vet Sci 2024; 173:105272. [PMID: 38718543 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2024.105272] [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: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024]
Abstract
Understanding gastrointestinal parasite distribution is crucial for effective control programs in horses. This study reports the prevalence of helminth infections in horses and selected risk factors (i.e., breed, age, climate, season) by analyzing 19,276 fecal samples from the Laboratory of Veterinary Clinical Parasitology, in Curitiba, Southern Brazil. The analyses were carried out from 2008 to 2019, coming from 153 stud farms located in 60 municipalities of nine Brazilian states. The parasite prevalence was 73.3%, with 72.1% present in the adult population and 80.6% in young horses. Strongyles were present in 100% horse farms. Strongyles had a prevalence of 72.1% with a mean FEC of 453.53 (+/- 717.6). Parascaris spp. had a prevalence of 5.8% and a FEC of 17.11 (+/- 149.2). The tropical wet/monsoon climate (Am) showed the lowest FEC for strongyles and Parascaris spp. when compared to the other climates. In the logistic regression analysis, young horses exhibited 4.6 times higher odds ratio (OR) (3.9-5.5) of Parascaris spp. and 1.2 (1.1-1.4) times higher OR of strongyles egg shedding when compared to adults (P < 0.001). Summer presented a higher risk for Parascaris spp. and Strongyles eggs when compared to the other seasons (P < 0.001). Mangalarga Marchador, Criollo, and Crossbred breeds were identified with higher OR of Parascaris spp. egg shedding than Thoroughbred. The extensive prevalence of strongyles across ages, seasons, breeds, and climates alerts for the risk of clinical manifestations in equines raised on pastures designing optimal health management and parasite control strategies worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcelo Beltrão Molento
- Laboratory of Veterinary Clinical Parasitology, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Paraná, Rua dos Funcionários, 1540, Curitiba, PR CEP: 80035-050, Brazil.
| | - Luciana S A Pires
- Laboratory of Veterinary Clinical Parasitology, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Paraná, Rua dos Funcionários, 1540, Curitiba, PR CEP: 80035-050, Brazil
| | - Julia Dall'Anese
- Laboratory of Veterinary Clinical Parasitology, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Paraná, Rua dos Funcionários, 1540, Curitiba, PR CEP: 80035-050, Brazil
| | - Ursula Y Yoshitani
- Laboratory of Veterinary Clinical Parasitology, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Paraná, Rua dos Funcionários, 1540, Curitiba, PR CEP: 80035-050, Brazil
| | - Thayany Almeida
- Laboratory of Veterinary Clinical Parasitology, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Paraná, Rua dos Funcionários, 1540, Curitiba, PR CEP: 80035-050, Brazil
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Pires LSA, Abrahão C, Dias de Castro LL, Hammerschmidt J, Antunes J, Molento CFM, Molento MB. Welfare assessment of Thoroughbred horses naturally infected with gastrointestinal parasites in Southern Brazil: Quantifying the host-parasite relationship. J Equine Vet Sci 2024; 136:105062. [PMID: 38588754 DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2024.105062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
Horse welfare assessment (HWA) does not account for individual or herd parasite infection. This study investigated the connection between HWA and individual parasite fecal egg count (FEC) in 90 Thoroughbred horses. All horses were naturally infected with gastrointestinal parasites and were evaluated for individual welfare indicators and FEC monthly, for 12 months. Horses were divided into three groups of 30 mares, 30 foals aged between 13 and 16 months (G2013), and 30 foals aged between two months and one year (G2014). A horse welfare protocol was developed and 1024 assessments were carried out by five trained assessors. FEC ranged from 0 to 5,760 with 98.8 % showing small strongyle eggs. Body condition scores were ideal in 94.4 % of the evaluations (n = 967), and 95.8 % of all horses had good clinical and behavioral indicators. Despite the variation in FEC, the data found no significant association between FEC and the behavioral indicators. The study suggests that FEC alone should not be used as a determinant of welfare when animals are managed with good nutritional and health management practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- L S Abrahão Pires
- Veterinary Clinical Parasitology Laboratory. Department of Veterinary Medicine. Federal University of Parana. Rua dos Funcionários, 1540. Curitiba, PR, Brazil. CEP: 80035-050.
| | - C Abrahão
- Veterinary Clinical Parasitology Laboratory. Department of Veterinary Medicine. Federal University of Parana. Rua dos Funcionários, 1540. Curitiba, PR, Brazil. CEP: 80035-050
| | - L L Dias de Castro
- Parasitology Laboratory. Department of Veterinary Medicine. University of Caxias do Sul. R. Francisco Getúlio Vargas 1130. Caxias do Sul, RS, Brazil. CEP: 95070-560
| | - J Hammerschmidt
- Pinhais Municipal Environmental Office. R. Cairo, 76. Pinhais, PR, Brazil. CEP: 83320-130
| | - J Antunes
- Private Practitioner. Rua Passos de Oliveira 675. São José dos Pinhais, PR, Brazil. CEP: 83030-720
| | - C F M Molento
- Animal Welfare Laboratory. Department of Animal Science. Federal University of Parana. Rua dos Funcionários, 1540. Curitiba, PR, Brazil. CEP: 80.035-050
| | - M B Molento
- Veterinary Clinical Parasitology Laboratory. Department of Veterinary Medicine. Federal University of Parana. Rua dos Funcionários, 1540. Curitiba, PR, Brazil. CEP: 80035-050
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Merlin A, Ravinet N, Briot L, Chauvin A, Hébert L, Valle-Casuso JC, Delerue M. Prevalence and seasonal dynamic of gastrointestinal parasites in equids in France during two years. Prev Vet Med 2024; 223:106100. [PMID: 38198900 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2023.106100] [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: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Grazing equids are constantly exposed to three clinically important gastrointestinal parasites (small strongyles/cyathostomins, Anoplocephala spp. and Parascaris spp.). Knowledge of the local seasonal dynamic of these parasitic infections is important for constructing a sustainable parasite control program with a rational number of anthelmintic treatments. However, studies describing these patterns are sparse in France. In this context, a two-year study was carried out to assess i) the seasonal dynamic and variability of strongyle faecal egg counts (FEC) and infective larvae (L3) counts on pastures, and ii) the prevalence of Anoplocephala spp. and Parascaris spp. and the dynamic evolution of their presence. During 2021 and 2022 grazing seasons, monthly individual faecal egg counts (FEC) and diarrhea scores (DS) were determined on 428 equids divided into 33 groups. A monthly body condition score (BCS) was also attributed to animals ≥3 years old and a monthly bodyweight was estimated for each animal <3 years old. At the group level, the strongyle L3 counts on grazed pastures were carried out at least in spring, summer and autumn. Eggs of strongyles were observed in 97% of equids. In 64% of the groups, the peaks of FEC were noted in September and October. At the individual level, the maximum strongyle FEC was related to age, group of breeds, number of grazed plots and number of anthelmintic treatments. No negative association was observed between strongyle FEC and BCS or average daily weight gain. In the pastures, cyathostomin larvae were found almost exclusively. Over the two years, the peaks of cyathostomin L3 counts occurred in 87% of the groups between September and November and ranged from 635 to 87,500 L3 kg-1 dry herbage. The variability of the maximum cyathostomin L3 count in each group was explained by the year and the number of grazed plots. Eggs of Anoplocephala spp. were observed in 12% of equids. Eggs of Parascaris spp. were noted in 34% of one year-old animals, 9% of two years-olds and 2% of olders. Anoplocephala spp. and Parascaris spp. eggs were observed every month with a peak in the percentage of shedders in groups in October for Anoplocephala spp. and May-June for Parascaris spp.This study highlights the prevalence of each parasite, the variability in cyathostomin egg excretion and L3 counts amongst groups and individuals and the factors involved in this variation These local epidemiological data will help us to re-think a newer strategy against these parasites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurélie Merlin
- ANSES, Laboratory for Animal Health in Normandy, Physiopathology and Epidemiology of Equine Diseases Unit, 14430 Goustranville, France; Mixed Technological Unit "Equine Health and Welfare - Organisation and Traceability of the Equine Industry" (UMT SABOT), France.
| | | | - Laurie Briot
- Mixed Technological Unit "Equine Health and Welfare - Organisation and Traceability of the Equine Industry" (UMT SABOT), France; French Horse and Riding Institute (IFCE), Development, Innovation, Research Department, 61310 Gouffern-en-Auge, France
| | | | - Laurent Hébert
- ANSES, Laboratory for Animal Health in Normandy, Physiopathology and Epidemiology of Equine Diseases Unit, 14430 Goustranville, France; Mixed Technological Unit "Equine Health and Welfare - Organisation and Traceability of the Equine Industry" (UMT SABOT), France
| | - José-Carlos Valle-Casuso
- ANSES, Laboratory for Animal Health in Normandy, Physiopathology and Epidemiology of Equine Diseases Unit, 14430 Goustranville, France; Mixed Technological Unit "Equine Health and Welfare - Organisation and Traceability of the Equine Industry" (UMT SABOT), France
| | - Marie Delerue
- Mixed Technological Unit "Equine Health and Welfare - Organisation and Traceability of the Equine Industry" (UMT SABOT), France; French Horse and Riding Institute (IFCE), Development, Innovation, Research Department, 61310 Gouffern-en-Auge, France
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Abbas G, Ghafar A, Beasley A, Stevenson MA, Bauquier J, Koehler AV, Wilkes EJA, McConnell E, El-Hage C, Carrigan P, Cudmore L, Hurley J, Gauci CG, Beveridge I, Jacobson C, Nielsen MK, Hughes KJ, Jabbar A. Understanding temporal and spatial distribution of intestinal nematodes of horses using faecal egg counts and DNA metabarcoding. Vet Parasitol 2024; 325:110094. [PMID: 38091893 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2023.110094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/25/2023]
Abstract
This study reports the spatial and temporal distribution of ascarid and strongylid nematodes in Thoroughbred horses by age category across different climatic zones in Australia over an 18-month period. Faecal samples (n = 2046) from individual horses were analysed using the modified McMaster technique for faecal egg counts (FECs). Strongylids were identified using PCR-directed next-generation sequencing of the second internal transcribed spacer (ITS-2) of the nuclear ribosomal DNA. Yearlings had the highest prevalence (82%) of strongyle eggs followed by weanlings (79%), foals (58%), wet mares (49%) and dry mares (46%). For Parascaris spp., foals had the highest prevalence (35%) followed by weanlings (21%) and yearlings (10%). The highest mean FECs for Parascaris spp. were observed in foals (525 eggs per gram [EPG] of faeces) while those for strongyles were in yearlings (962 EPG). Among horses that were classified as adults at the time of sampling, 77% (860 of 1119) of mares were low (i.e., <250 EPG) strongyle egg-shedders. Mean strongyle FEC counts were highest in the Mediterranean (818 EPG) followed by summer (599 EPG), winter (442 EPG), and non-seasonal (413 EPG) rainfall zones. Twenty-six nematode species were detected, with Cylicostephanus longibursatus (26.5%), Cylicocyclus nassatus (23.7%) and Coronocyclus coronatus (20.5%) being the most frequently detected species. Their richness and relative abundance varied with horse age, season and climatic zone. In addition, Strongylus equinus and Triodontophorus spp. (T. brevicauda and T. serratus) were also detected. This comprehensive study elucidates spatial (climatic zone) and temporal (i.e., seasonal) trends in prevalence and burdens of intestinal nematodes in Australian horses using non-invasive conventional and molecular methods. The information presented in this study is crucial for developing integrated management strategies to control horse parasites in farmed horses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghazanfar Abbas
- Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria 3030, Australia
| | - Abdul Ghafar
- Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria 3030, Australia
| | - Anne Beasley
- School of Agriculture and Food Sustainability, University of Queensland, Gatton, Queensland 4343, Australia
| | - Mark A Stevenson
- Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria 3030, Australia
| | - Jenni Bauquier
- Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria 3030, Australia
| | - Anson V Koehler
- Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria 3030, Australia
| | | | - Emma McConnell
- Centre for Animal Production and Health, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Charles El-Hage
- Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria 3030, Australia
| | - Peter Carrigan
- Scone Equine Hospital, Scone, New South Wales 2337, Australia
| | - Lucy Cudmore
- Scone Equine Hospital, Scone, New South Wales 2337, Australia
| | - John Hurley
- Swettenham Stud, Nagambie, Victoria 3608, Australia
| | - Charles G Gauci
- Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria 3030, Australia
| | - Ian Beveridge
- Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria 3030, Australia
| | - Caroline Jacobson
- Centre for Animal Production and Health, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Martin K Nielsen
- M.H. Gluck Equine Research Center, Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Kristopher J Hughes
- School of Agricultural, Environmental and Veterinary Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, New South Wales 2650, Australia
| | - Abdul Jabbar
- Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria 3030, Australia.
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Elghryani N, McAloon C, Mincher C, McOwan T, de Waal T. Comparison of the Automated OvaCyte Telenostic Faecal Analyser versus the McMaster and Mini-FLOTAC Techniques in the Estimation of Helminth Faecal Egg Counts in Equine. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:3874. [PMID: 38136911 PMCID: PMC10740962 DOI: 10.3390/ani13243874] [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: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Gastrointestinal helminth parasites continue to be a significant threat to the health of equine. OvaCyte Telenostic (OCT) (Telenostic Ltd., Kilkenny, Ireland) has developed an automated digital microscope utilising Artificial Intelligence to identify and count the clinically important helminth species in equine, bovine, and ovine host species. In this paper, the performance of the OCT analyser was evaluated for the detection and counting of equine helminth species parasites and its performance compared to the currently accepted benchmark methods of faecal egg counts being the McMaster and the Mini-FLOTAC techniques. A pairwise comparison of tests was assessed based on the correlation of egg counts and Cohen's kappa agreement statistics for dichotomized outcomes. Bayesian latent class analysis was used to estimate the sensitivity and specificity of all three techniques in the absence of a gold standard for four helminth parasites (strongyles, Anoplocephala spp., Parascaris spp. and Strongyloides westeri). Based on the analysis of 783 equine faecal samples, we found a high level (ρ ≥ 0.94) of correlation between each pairwise comparison of techniques for strongyle egg counts. Cohen's kappa agreement between techniques was high for strongyles and S. westeri, moderate for Parascaris spp., and low for Anoplocephala spp. All three techniques had a high sensitivity and specificity (>0.90) for strongyles. Across helminth parasites, the sensitivity of the OCT was the highest of the three techniques evaluated for strongyles (0.98 v 0.96 and 0.94), Anoplocephala spp. (0.86 v 0.44 and 0.46) and Parascaris spp. (0.96 v 0.83 and 0.96); but lowest for S. westeri (0.74 v 0.88 and 0.88), compared to McMaster and Mini-FLOTAC, respectively. In terms of specificity, OCT was the lowest in two species (Parascaris spp. 0.96, Anoplocephala spp. 0.95). In conclusion, OCT has a sensitivity and specificity statistically similar to both McMaster and Mini-FLOTAC, and had a higher correlation with Mini-FLOTAC. The OCT point of care faecal analyser offers improved workflow, test turn-around time and does not require trained laboratory personnel to operate or interpret the results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nagwa Elghryani
- Telenostic Limited, R95 WN20 Kilkenny, Ireland; (C.M.); (T.M.)
- Department of Biology, Faculty ofSciences-Qumnis, University of Benghazi, Benghazi 1308, Libya
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University College Dublin, D04 D6F6 Dublin, Ireland; (C.M.); (T.d.W.)
| | - Conor McAloon
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University College Dublin, D04 D6F6 Dublin, Ireland; (C.M.); (T.d.W.)
| | - Craig Mincher
- Telenostic Limited, R95 WN20 Kilkenny, Ireland; (C.M.); (T.M.)
| | - Trish McOwan
- Telenostic Limited, R95 WN20 Kilkenny, Ireland; (C.M.); (T.M.)
| | - Theo de Waal
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University College Dublin, D04 D6F6 Dublin, Ireland; (C.M.); (T.d.W.)
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Dias De Castro LL, Oliveira Júnior GA, Perez BC, Carvalho ME, De Souza Ramos EA, Ferraz JBS, Molento MB. Genome-wide association study in thoroughbred horses naturally infected with cyathostomins. Anim Biotechnol 2023; 34:2467-2479. [PMID: 35856721 DOI: 10.1080/10495398.2022.2099880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Cyathostomins are considered one of the most important parasites of horses. A group of horses within a herd can be responsible for eliminating the majority of parasite eggs. This phenotype might be explained by genetic factors. This study aimed to identify genomic regions associated with fecal egg count (FEC) and hematological parameters by performing a genomic-wide association study (GWAS) in Thoroughbred horses naturally infected with cyathostomins. Packed cell volume (PCV), differential leukocyte, and FEC were determined from 90 horses. All animals were genotyped using the Illumina Equine 70 K BeadChip panel containing 65,157 SNP markers. The five genomic windows that have explained the highest percentage of the additive genetic variance of a specific trait (top 5) were further explored to identify candidate genes. A total of 33, 21, 30, 21, and 19 genes were identified for FEC, PCV, eosinophils, neutrophils, and lymphocyte count, respectively. The top 5 marker regions explained 2.86, 2.56, 2.73, 2.33, and 2.37% of the additive genetic variation of FEC, PCV, eosinophils, neutrophils, and lymphocytes count, respectively. This is the first study correlating phenotypic horse health traits to GWAS analysis, which may be used for animal breeding activities, reducing losses due to parasite infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luciana L Dias De Castro
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Caxias do Sul. R: Francisco Getúlio Vargas, Caxias do Sul, Brazil
| | - Gerson A Oliveira Júnior
- College of Animal Science and Food Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, Brazil
- Centre for Genetic Improvement of Livestock, Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Canada
| | - Bruno Costa Perez
- College of Animal Science and Food Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, Brazil
| | - Minos E Carvalho
- College of Animal Science and Food Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, Brazil
| | - Edneia A De Souza Ramos
- Laboratory of Epigenetics, Department of Pathology, Federal University of Parana, Curitiba, Brazil
| | - José Bento S Ferraz
- College of Animal Science and Food Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, Brazil
| | - Marcelo Beltrão Molento
- Laboratory of Veterinary Clinical Parasitology, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Parana, Curitiba, Brazil
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Abbas G, Stevenson MA, Bauquier J, Beasley A, Jacobson C, El-Hage C, Wilkes EJA, Carrigan P, Cudmore L, Hurley J, Beveridge I, Nielsen MK, Hughes KJ, Jabbar A. Assessment of worm control practices recommended by equine veterinarians in Australia. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1305360. [PMID: 38026649 PMCID: PMC10654783 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1305360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to assess Australian veterinarians' knowledge, perceptions and treatment strategies for worm control in horses with an online questionnaire. The questionnaire comprised 64 questions covering various aspects of: (i) veterinary practice; (ii) the veterinarian's knowledge of gastrointestinal nematodes (GINs) and the importance of parasites in different age groups of horses; (iii) the diagnosis and control of worms; (iv) anthelmintics and anthelmintic resistance (AR); (v) grazing management; and (vi) the means of communication and the discussion between veterinarians and their clients regarding worm control. Following a pilot survey, a link for the questionnaire survey was sent to all (n = 1,148) registered members of Equine Veterinarians Australia in April 2020. The response rate for the questionnaire was 10% (118 of 1,148). The findings of this study illustrate veterinarians' good understanding of aspects of equine parasites, including control. However, respondents mainly recommended frequent, interval-based prophylactic deworming in young horses, and only 40% (96 of 239) diagnosed GIN infections based on faecal egg count (FEC) results in all age groups of horses. Furthermore, only 27% (88 of 330) of the respondents made deworming decisions based on FECs. Most of the respondents recommended macrocyclic lactones (MLs) for all age groups of horses (71%, 481 of 677), and the most frequently used method to calculate the dose of anthelmintics was by estimating the weight of animals visually (53%, 63 of 118). Although the majority of respondents (97%, 115 of 118) perceived AR to be a critical issue in managing worms in horses, 58% (67 of 118) of them were unaware of the status of AR on their clients' properties. Forty-two percent (50 of 118) of the respondents perceived the presence of AR in worms, including pinworms (16%), strongylins (15%), species of Draschia and Habronema (6%), Strongyloides westeri (2%) and tapeworms (1%). Twenty-seven percent (32 of 118) of the respondents rarely discussed equine worm control practices with their clients. This study provides insights into the perception and worm control practices recommended by Australian veterinarians to manage equine parasites. The findings highlight the importance of continued education and awareness of AR, and the use of non-chemical methods as well as consideration of the legislation of prescription-only use of anthelmintics based on FECs to achieve sustainable control of GINs in Australian horses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghazanfar Abbas
- Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, VIC, Australia
| | - Mark A. Stevenson
- Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, VIC, Australia
| | - Jenni Bauquier
- Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, VIC, Australia
| | - Anne Beasley
- School of Agriculture and Food Sustainability, University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD, Australia
| | - Caroline Jacobson
- Centre for Animal Production and Health, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA, Australia
| | - Charles El-Hage
- Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, VIC, Australia
| | | | | | | | | | - Ian Beveridge
- Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, VIC, Australia
| | - Martin K. Nielsen
- M.H. Gluck Equine Research Center, Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States
| | - Kristopher J. Hughes
- School of Agricultural, Environmental and Veterinary Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW, Australia
| | - Abdul Jabbar
- Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, VIC, Australia
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Abbas G, Ghafar A, Bauquier J, Beasley A, Ling E, Gauci CG, El-Hage C, Wilkes EJA, McConnell E, Carrigan P, Cudmore L, Hurley J, Beveridge I, Nielsen MK, Stevenson MA, Jacobson C, Hughes KJ, Jabbar A. Prevalence and diversity of ascarid and strongylid nematodes in Australian Thoroughbred horses using next-generation sequencing and bioinformatic tools. Vet Parasitol 2023; 323:110048. [PMID: 37844388 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2023.110048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
The study presents the results of a cross-sectional survey to describe the epidemiology of ascarid and strongylid nematodes in horses, the impact of diverse climatic conditions on parasite diversity and the levels of faecal egg shedding in different age groups of managed Thoroughbred horses. Individual faecal samples (n = 1377) collected from 62 Thoroughbred farms across four climatic zones in Australia were analysed using the modified McMaster technique for faecal egg counts (FECs) and strongylid nematodes were identified utilising PCR-directed next-generation sequencing (NGS) of the second internal transcribed spacer of the nuclear ribosomal DNA (ITS-2). Across all age groups, the prevalence of ascarid and strongylid nematodes was 12% (95% confidence interval 10-14%) and 72% (70-74%), respectively. Based on strongylid FECs, yearlings had the highest prevalence (89%) followed by weanlings (83%), foals (79%), wet mares (61%), dry mares (59%) and stallions (54%). However, for Parascaris spp., foals had the highest prevalence (46%) followed by weanlings (32%) and yearlings (13%). The highest mean FECs for Parascaris spp. were observed in foals (418 eggs per gram [EPG] of faeces) while those for strongylids were in yearlings (1002 EPG). Of the adult horses (mares and stallions), 67% (489 of 729) and 11% (77 of 729) were low (i.e., ≤250 EPG) and moderate (i.e., 251-500 EPG) strongylid egg-shedders, respectively. Strongylid egg shedding varied across climatic zones, with the highest mean FECs in the summer rainfall (723 EPG) followed by non-seasonal rainfall (629 EPG), winter rainfall (613 EPG), and Mediterranean (606 EPG) rainfall zones. Twenty-three nematode species were detected using NGS, with Cylicostephanus longibursatus (28%), Cylicocyclus nassatus (23%) and Coronocyclus coronatus (23%), being the most abundant species. Three species of Strongylus (i.e., S. vulgaris, S. equinus and S. edentatus) were also detected. The nemabiome composition, species richness and relative abundance varied within horse age and between climatic zones. These empirical findings provide a comprehensive understanding of the prevalence of parasites within horse populations and the multifaceted factors that influence their occurrence, thereby allowing for the formulation of tailored strategies aimed at parasite control in domestic horses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghazanfar Abbas
- Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria 3030, Australia
| | - Abdul Ghafar
- Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria 3030, Australia
| | - Jenni Bauquier
- Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria 3030, Australia
| | - Anne Beasley
- School of Agriculture and Food Sustainability, University of Queensland, Gatton, Queensland 4343, Australia
| | - Elysia Ling
- Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria 3030, Australia
| | - Charles G Gauci
- Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria 3030, Australia
| | - Charles El-Hage
- Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria 3030, Australia
| | | | - Emma McConnell
- Centre for Animal Production and Health, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia 6150, Australia
| | - Peter Carrigan
- Scone Equine Hospital, Scone, New South Wales 2337, Australia
| | - Lucy Cudmore
- Scone Equine Hospital, Scone, New South Wales 2337, Australia
| | - John Hurley
- Swettenham Stud, Nagambie, Victoria 3608, Australia
| | - Ian Beveridge
- Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria 3030, Australia
| | - Martin K Nielsen
- M.H. Gluck Equine Research Center, Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Mark A Stevenson
- Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria 3030, Australia
| | - Caroline Jacobson
- Centre for Animal Production and Health, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia 6150, Australia
| | - Kristopher J Hughes
- School of Agricultural, Environmental and Veterinary Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Abdul Jabbar
- Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria 3030, Australia.
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10
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Buono F, Veneziano V, Veronesi F, Molento MB. Horse and donkey parasitology: differences and analogies for a correct diagnostic and management of major helminth infections. Parasitology 2023; 150:1119-1138. [PMID: 37221816 PMCID: PMC10801385 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182023000525] [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: 01/22/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
In June 2022, at the XXXII Conference of the Italian Society of Parasitology, the parallels of the main endoparasitic infections of horses and donkeys were discussed. Although these 2 species are genetically different, they can be challenged by a similar range of parasites (i.e. small and large strongyles, and Parascaris spp.). Although equids can demonstrate some level of resilience to parasites, they have quite distinct helminth biodiversity, distribution and intensity among different geographical locations and breeds. Heavily infected donkeys may show fewer clinical signs than horses. Although parasite control is primarily provided to horses, we consider that there may be a risk of drug-resistance parasitic infection through passive infection in donkeys when sharing the same pasture areas. Knowing the possible lack of drug efficacy (<90 or 80%), it is advocated the use of selective treatment for both species based on fecal egg counts. Adult horses should receive treatment when the threshold exceeds 200–500 eggs per gram (EPG) of small strongyles. Moreover, considering that there are no precise indications in donkeys, a value >300 EPG may be a safe recommendation. We have highlighted the main points of the discussion including the dynamics of helminth infections between the 2 species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Buono
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Naples 'Federico II', Naples, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Veneziano
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Naples 'Federico II', Naples, Italy
| | - Fabrizia Veronesi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Marcelo Beltrão Molento
- Laboratory of Veterinary Clinical Parasitology, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Parana, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
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Flota-Burgos GJ, Rosado-Aguilar JA, Rojas-Becerril R, Rodríguez-Vivas RI, Trinidad-Martínez I. Evidence of resistance to ivermectin in the gastrointestinal nematodes of horses from Mexican southeast. Vet Parasitol Reg Stud Reports 2023; 44:100907. [PMID: 37652626 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2023.100907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2022] [Revised: 05/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
Gastrointestinal nematodes (GIN) are a major impediment to breeding and exploitation of horses. Traditional control of GIN has generated resistance to main anthelmintics, including ivermectin. An analysis of five ranches with a history of IVM use was done to determine the efficacy and resistance of GIN to IVM treatment in horses from the Mexican southeast. Predesigned questionnaires were applied to collect information on previous treatment protocols. The fecal egg count reduction test (FECRT) was applied to determine resistance. Before IVM application, a McMaster test was used to diagnose GIN infection in horses, and feces cultures were done to identify L3 larvae for Strongylida eggs. Pre-treatment samples showed that 72.7% (80/110) of horses were GIN positive, with cyathostomins being the most frequent (91.8%), followed by Oxyuris equi (7.0%), Parascaris equorum (1.0%), and Strongylus vulgaris (0.2%). Based on the results, the horses at each ranch were divided in control (CG) and experimental (EG) groups with similar eggs per gram of feces (EPG). The EG (40/80) was dewormed with IVM (0.2 mg/kg orally) and the CG (40/80) remained untreated. After 14 days, EPG were measured, and feces cultures were done again to identify L3 larvae. After treatment of EG, 40% (16/40) of horses were positive, the most frequently identified GIN were cyathostomins (98.6%), followed by P. equorum (1.0%) and S. vulgaris (0.2%). Three of the five ranches were classified as resistant, according to the FECRT, with a percentage of reduction from 53 to 68%, all of which used IVM ≥4 times annually. This is the first evidence of resistance in cyathostomins to IVM treatment in horses from the Mexican southeast, adding to the current problem of anthelmintic resistance in equine GIN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Janett Flota-Burgos
- Departamento de salud animal, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán, Km. 15.5 carretera Mérida-Xmatkuil, CP 97100 Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico
| | - José Alberto Rosado-Aguilar
- Departamento de salud animal, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán, Km. 15.5 carretera Mérida-Xmatkuil, CP 97100 Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico.
| | - Roberto Rojas-Becerril
- Asociación Mexicana de Médicos Veterinarios Especialistas en Equinos A.C., Calzada México Tacuba # 213, esquina Maestro Rural, Col. Un lugar para nosotros, Del. Miguel Hidalgo CP 11330, D.F, Mexico
| | - Roger Iván Rodríguez-Vivas
- Departamento de salud animal, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán, Km. 15.5 carretera Mérida-Xmatkuil, CP 97100 Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico
| | - Iris Trinidad-Martínez
- Departamento de salud animal, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán, Km. 15.5 carretera Mérida-Xmatkuil, CP 97100 Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico
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Carminatti A, Chitolina MB, Ribeiro AB, Forest M, Collet SG, Prestes AM, Camillo G. Occurrence and risk factors associated with gastrointestinal parasitism in horses reared in different systems. Vet Parasitol Reg Stud Reports 2023; 42:100890. [PMID: 37321795 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2023.100890] [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: 06/06/2022] [Revised: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
To facilitate exploration of the immense range of gastrointestinal parasites in horses and the impact of parasitism on equine health, the present study aimed to evaluate the occurrence and risk factors associated with these infections in horses reared in different management systems in the state of Santa Catarina, Brazil. Samples were collected from 208 horses: 91 from extensive, 64 from semi-extensive, and 53 from intensive rearing systems. The identified helminths included those of the Strongylida order (80.29%), Parascaris equorum (3.36%), Oxyuris equi (4.33%), and Anoplocephala spp. (1.92%). By analyzing the coproculture results to differentiate among Strongylida order parasites, species such as Strongylus vulgaris, S. edentatus, S. equinus, Triodontophorus spp., and Trichostrongylus axei, in addition to members of the Cyathostominae subfamily, which include Gyalocephalus capitatus and Poteriostomum spp., were identified. The only positive sample of protozoa was that of Cryptosporidium spp. (13%). Regarding the rearing system, animals in the extensive system had a higher proportion of infected horses and a higher chance of infection than those in the other systems. For the variable co-grazing with cattle, only cyathostomins showed a significant difference with relatively low infection risk in co-grazing. Overall, the present study demonstrated a high occurrence of equine gastrointestinal parasites, especially those of the Strongylida order, with emphasis on small strongylids. In addition, analyzing factors associated with infection showed that management variables are important for controlling parasitism in horses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andressa Carminatti
- Universidade do Oeste de Santa Catarina (Unoesc), Xanxerê, SC 89820-000, Brazil
| | | | - Alana Birck Ribeiro
- Universidade do Oeste de Santa Catarina (Unoesc), Xanxerê, SC 89820-000, Brazil
| | - Marciano Forest
- Universidade do Oeste de Santa Catarina (Unoesc), Xanxerê, SC 89820-000, Brazil
| | | | | | - Giovana Camillo
- Universidade do Oeste de Santa Catarina (Unoesc), Xanxerê, SC 89820-000, Brazil
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Mostafa W, Felefel W, El-rady AA, Khalifa FA, Youseef AG, El-dakroury MF, Selim S, Elkamshishi MM, Mohammed ES. Prevalence of intestinal nematodes in equines with an assessment of the therapy using Albendazole and Doramectin.. [DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-2889716/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
Abstract
Background: Intestinal nematode parasites of equines have emerged as a pressing and urgent challenge due to their significant impact on the health and performance of these animals worldwide; therefore, implementing a deworming regimen has become vital to keeping a horse's parasite load at an acceptable level. Thus, the current study aimed to estimate the prevalence of nematodes infection , associated risk factors and evaluate the chemotherapeutic efficacy of different anthelmintic drugs by enrolling 195 fecal matter samples of working equines using flotation concentration techniques. Equines treatment were divided into four groups; Group 1 standard treatment (Albendazole orally), Group 2 intervention treatment (Doramectin injection), Group 3 intervention treatment (combination of Albendazole and Doramectin), and Group 4 was left untreated as a positive control.
Results: The overall prevalence of intestinal nematode parasites in working equines was 70.25%. The recovered nematodes were Strongylus species, with 87.17% followed by Parascaris equorum 30.76%, and Oxyuris equi was 12.82%. Concerning treatment efficacy, the highest cure rate was among Group 3 (77.14%), followed by Group 2 (68.57%) and Group 1 (40%), but the difference between Groups 2 and 3 is statistically insignificant. Interestingly, the effect of Doramectin injection is highly significant than other, especially for the reduction of Strongylus spp. and Parascaris equorum eggs according to Cohen's D test.
Conclusions: Translating such a potent combination of drugs into endemic areas will provide significant support for deworming and control programs against intestinal parasites of equines, especially those in the migratory phase, more than Albendazole alone, which has poor absorption as it requires a full stomach during administration.
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Estimating the Prevalence and Factors Affecting the Shedding of Helminth Eggs in Irish Equine Populations. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13040581. [PMID: 36830368 PMCID: PMC9951768 DOI: 10.3390/ani13040581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2022] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Gastrointestinal helminths are ubiquitous in horse populations across the world. Intensive anthelmintic treatments have succeeded in controlling some of the pathogenic effects of these parasites. However, the success of anthelmintic drugs has been threatened by the development of widespread resistance to those most commonly used. To develop improved control strategies, information on helminth distribution patterns is needed, which can be obtained by identifying animals regarded as high egg shedders and taking age, gender, and other risk factors into account. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of helminth infection in the Irish equine population using faecal egg counts and to evaluate the effects of risk factors on these faecal egg counts. For the 2700 horses that were included in the study, the prevalence of gastrointestinal helminth infection was 52.40%, 4.22%, 2.59%, and 0.89% for strongyle species, Parascaris spp., Anoplocephala spp., and Strongyloides westeri, respectively. Overall, strongyle faecal egg counts from 159 farms averaged 250.22 eggs per gram. Both age and season had significant effects on strongyle egg shedding. In conclusion, this study revealed high prevalence of strongyle worm infection in horses on Irish farms, which highlights the need to optimize and develop good management practices and strategic deworming.
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15
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D’Anza E, Buono F, Albarella S, Castaldo E, Pugliano M, Iannuzzi A, Cascone I, Battista E, Peretti V, Ciotola F. Chromosome Instability in Pony of Esperia Breed Naturally Infected by Intestinal Strongylidae. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12202817. [PMID: 36290203 PMCID: PMC9597782 DOI: 10.3390/ani12202817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Revised: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The Pony of Esperia is an Italian autochthonous horse breed reared in the wild on the Aurunci and Ausoni Mountains. Currently, it is considered an endangered breed, as its population consists of 1623 animals. It is therefore essential to identify all aspects that can improve the management and economy of its breeding, favoring its diffusion. In this paper, the effects of intestinal strongyle infection on the chromosome stability of peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBLs) was evaluated through aneuploidy and chromosome aberration (gap, chromatid and chromosome breaks, and the number of abnormal cells) test. Statistical difference in the mean values of aneuploidy, cells with chromosome abnormalities, and chromosome and chromatid breaks were observed between ponies with high fecal egg counts (eggs per gram > 930) and those with undetectable intestinal strongylosis. The causes of this phenomenon and possible repercussions on the management of Pony of Esperia are discussed in the paper.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emanuele D’Anza
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Via Delpino 1, 80137 Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Buono
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Via Delpino 1, 80137 Naples, Italy
| | - Sara Albarella
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Via Delpino 1, 80137 Naples, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0812536502
| | - Elisa Castaldo
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Via Delpino 1, 80137 Naples, Italy
| | - Mariagiulia Pugliano
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Via Delpino 1, 80137 Naples, Italy
| | - Alessandra Iannuzzi
- National Research Council (CNR), Institute of Animal Production System in Mediterranean Environment (ISPAAM), Piazzale E. Fermi, 1, 80055 Portici, Italy
| | - Ilaria Cascone
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Via Delpino 1, 80137 Naples, Italy
| | | | - Vincenzo Peretti
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Via Delpino 1, 80137 Naples, Italy
| | - Francesca Ciotola
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Via Delpino 1, 80137 Naples, Italy
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Investigation of Strongyle Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors in Horses in and around Alage District, Ethiopia. J Parasitol Res 2022; 2022:3935008. [PMID: 35989863 PMCID: PMC9391126 DOI: 10.1155/2022/3935008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Horses are used for a variety of purposes in Ethiopia. However, their service is hampered by a variety of health issues. Strongylosis is a parasitic infestation of the gastrointestinal tract that has a significant impact on the working ability, reproductive performance, well-being, and welfare of horses. The existence of Strongylosis in the study area is reported from clinical cases; however, its prevalence has not been well studied. Objective The current study was carried out from January 2019 to July 2019, to determine the prevalence and associated risk factors of Strongyle in horses in and around Alage district. Methods A cross-sectional study design was used, and 384 horses were sampled from three peasant associations inseparably. The floatation technique was used in laboratory analysis. Result Strongylosis was discovered in 67.19 percent of the cases. In Naka, Dilbato, and Koricho peasant associations, the infestation magnitudes were 64.1%, 68%, and 69.5%, respectively. The increased level of animal-related prevalence was observed in male (68.1 percent), young (84.4 percent), and poor body condition (90 percent) horses. Age and body condition scores were statistically significant associations with the disease under study at p ≤ 0.000. While sex and peasant associations did not predict the problem significantly (p ≤ 0.05), young horses and horses in poor and medium body conditions are 4.66 (CI: 2.22–9.76), 9.63 (CI: 3.77–24.63), and 1.93 (1.03–3.60) times more likely to be infected with Strongylosis, respectively. Conclusions The occurrence of Strongylosis is determined independently by age and BCS. Strongyle infestations are common in horses in the study area, posing a significant barrier to horse production and well-being. As a result, appropriate disease prevention and control measures should be implemented.
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Nielsen MK, Littman BA, Orzech SW, Ripley NE. Equine strongylids: Ivermectin efficacy and fecal egg shedding patterns. Parasitol Res 2022; 121:1691-1697. [PMID: 35384503 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-022-07509-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Equine cyathostomins are ubiquitous in grazing horses around the world and a main target in parasite control programs. Anthelmintic resistance has been reported with increasing frequency in these parasites over the past decades, and recent findings of fulminant resistance to the macrocyclic lactone class have raised severe concerns. This study aimed to evaluate ivermectin efficacy in cohorts of yearlings and mares present on four different farms in Central Kentucky. Strongylid egg counts were determined with an automated egg counting system, and the percent fecal egg count reduction (FECR) was calculated using a hierarchical Bayesian analysis. Novel principles were used for classification of groups to either no signs of anthelmintic resistance, evidence of resistance, or inconclusive. Furthermore, an epidemiological analysis was conducted evaluating the possible influence of pregnancy status, time of foaling, and year of arrival on mare strongylid egg shedding levels. A total of 102 yearlings and 247 mares were enrolled in the study. Evidence of ivermectin resistance was documented in one group of yearlings with a mean FECR of 91.2% and a 95% credible interval of 84.0-95.8. The results from one mare group and one additional yearling group were deemed inconclusive, whereas the remaining five groups displayed no evidence of ivermectin resistance. Strongylid shedding in the mares was not positively associated with any of the evaluated factors. This study is the first to demonstrate ivermectin resistance in US bred horses, and the findings emphasize the need for routine monitoring of anthelmintic efficacy on horse farms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin K Nielsen
- M. H. Gluck Equine Research Center, Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA.
| | - Brooke A Littman
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Sierra W Orzech
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Nichol E Ripley
- M. H. Gluck Equine Research Center, Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
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Furtado T, King M, Perkins E, McGowan C, Chubbock S, Hannelly E, Rogers J, Pinchbeck G. An Exploration of Environmentally Sustainable Practices Associated with Alternative Grazing Management System Use for Horses, Ponies, Donkeys and Mules in the UK. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12020151. [PMID: 35049774 PMCID: PMC8772570 DOI: 10.3390/ani12020151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Revised: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Equestrian land could be a potentially important environmental resource, given that pastureland can help to sequester carbon from the atmosphere, prevent soil erosion and provide diverse ecosystems for native plant and wildlife species. However, equestrian land has been overlooked in environmental research and policy. This study reports on the ways which horse, pony, donkey and mule keepers in the UK described environmental practices as part of their equid care. Through an analysis of survey responses (N = 758) from equid keepers using alternative grazing systems, we report on three very different management approaches which resulted in keepers aiming to promote healthy pastures and healthy animals. This study provides the basis for future research exploring attitudes to sustainability in equid keepers, as well as evaluating the impact of their efforts. Abstract Equestrian grazing management is a poorly researched area, despite potentially significant environmental impacts. This study explored keepers’ use of alternative grazing systems in the care of UK horses, donkeys and mules through an internet survey. The survey was available during the summer of 2020 and comprised closed and open questions, which were analysed with descriptive statistics and iterative thematic analysis, respectively. A total of 758 responses was incorporated into the analysis; the most popular system used were tracks (56.5%), Equicentral (19%), “other” (e.g., non-grass turnout) (12.5%), rewilding (7.5%) and turnout on either moorland (0.7%) or woodland (2.5%). The thematic analysis highlighted that equid keepers across the systems were highly engaged in exploring sustainable practices. Their approaches varied according to each system, yet all aimed to fulfil practices in three major categories, i.e., supporting diverse plant life (usually through restricting equid access to certain areas), supporting wildlife (through the creation of biodiverse environments) and sustainably managing droppings and helminths. Additionally, proponents of the Equicentral systems declared to be aiming to support soil health. These data provide a promising insight into equid keepers’ behaviour and attitudes to sustainability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamzin Furtado
- Department of Livestock and One Health, Institute for Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool CH64 7TE, UK;
- Correspondence:
| | - Mollie King
- School of Veterinary Science, Institute for Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool CH64 7TE, UK; (M.K.); (C.M.)
| | - Elizabeth Perkins
- Institute of Population Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3GL, UK;
| | - Catherine McGowan
- School of Veterinary Science, Institute for Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool CH64 7TE, UK; (M.K.); (C.M.)
| | - Samantha Chubbock
- World Horse Welfare, Anne Colvin House, Snetterton, Norwich NR16 2LR, UK;
| | - Emmeline Hannelly
- The British Horse Society (Welfare Dept) Abbey Park, Stareton, Warwickshire CV8 2XZ, UK;
| | - Jan Rogers
- The Horse Trust, Slad Ln, Princes Risborough HP27 0PP, UK;
| | - Gina Pinchbeck
- Department of Livestock and One Health, Institute for Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool CH64 7TE, UK;
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Dibakou SE, Maloueki U, Ngoubangoye B, Boundenga L, Ntie S, Tsoumbou TA, Moussadji C, Zang RO, Kombila D, Basset D. Diversity of gastrointestinal parasites in sympatric mammals in Moukalaba-Doudou National Park, Gabon. Vet World 2021; 14:3149-3155. [PMID: 35153406 PMCID: PMC8829402 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2021.3149-3155] [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: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim: Gastrointestinal parasites identified in the wild can negatively affect host fitness, lower performance, and growth. On the other side, sympatric mammals that share habitat and resources may also cross-transmit parasites, which are often zoonotic and can contribute to morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to characterize the diversity of gastrointestinal parasites circulating in mammalian hosts in Moukalaba-Doudou National Park.
Materials and Methods: We screened a total of 25 fecal samples collected from nine wild mammalian species, namely, western gorilla (Gorilla gorilla gorilla), chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes), putty-nosed monkey (Cercopithecus nictitans), African forest elephant (Loxodonta cyclotis), African buffalo (Syncerus caffer), blue duiker (Philantomba monticola), bay duiker (Cephalophus dorsalis), and red river hog (Potamochoerus porcus) as well as people working as trackers (Homo sapiens) using direct microscopic observations following a sedimentation technique to concentrate the fecal material.
Results: Of the total 25 fecal samples screened, 15 (60%) were positive for parasitic gastrointestinal infection. Based on the morphology of parasite eggs and cysts, we identified a rich diversity of nematodes, protozoans, trematodes, and cestodes, including unidentified strongyles (73%), Oesophagostomum spp. (53%), Ancylostoma spp. (27%), Trichuris spp. (13%), Ascaris spp. (13%), Mammomonogamus spp. (13%), Strongyloides spp. (47%), Balantidium coli (20%), Entamoeba coli (20%), Endolimax nana (6%), Fasciola hepatica (6%), Paramphistomum spp. (13%), and Taenia spp. (6%).
Conclusion: All parasites were found at least once in one of the hosts, and most were potentially zoonotic and responsible for several diseases of public health concern. Because of the small sample size, our findings should not be considered conclusive. Nevertheless, they highlight the diversity of gastrointestinal parasites in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serge-Ely Dibakou
- Centre de Primatologie, Centre Interdisciplinaire de Recherches Médicales de Franceville (CIRMF), BP 769 Franceville, Gabon
| | - Ulrich Maloueki
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Kinshasa University, PO Box 190, Kinshasa XI; Protectrice des Grands Singes de la Moukalaba (PROGRAM), PO Box 861, Libreville, Tchibanga, Gabon
| | - Barthélémy Ngoubangoye
- Centre de Primatologie, Centre Interdisciplinaire de Recherches Médicales de Franceville (CIRMF), BP 769 Franceville, Gabon
| | - Larson Boundenga
- Centre de Primatologie, Centre Interdisciplinaire de Recherches Médicales de Franceville (CIRMF), BP 769 Franceville, Gabon; Groupe Evolution et Transmission Inter-espèces de Parasites (GETIP) du Département de Parasitologie, Centre Interdisciplinaire de Recherches Médicales de Franceville, BP 769 Franceville, Gabon
| | - Stephan Ntie
- Département de Biologie, Laboratoire de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire, Université des Sciences et Techniques de Masuku, BP 941, Franceville, Gabon
| | - Thierry-Audrey Tsoumbou
- Centre de Primatologie, Centre Interdisciplinaire de Recherches Médicales de Franceville (CIRMF), BP 769 Franceville, Gabon
| | - Cyr Moussadji
- Centre de Primatologie, Centre Interdisciplinaire de Recherches Médicales de Franceville (CIRMF), BP 769 Franceville, Gabon
| | - Rina Obame Zang
- Protectrice des Grands Singes de la Moukalaba (PROGRAM), PO Box 861, Libreville, Tchibanga, Gabon
| | - Dikenane Kombila
- Protectrice des Grands Singes de la Moukalaba (PROGRAM), PO Box 861, Libreville, Tchibanga, Gabon
| | - Didier Basset
- Parasitology Laboratory, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier, France
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Scala A, Tamponi C, Sanna G, Predieri G, Meloni L, Knoll S, Sedda G, Dessì G, Cappai MG, Varcasia A. Parascaris spp. eggs in horses of Italy: a large-scale epidemiological analysis of the egg excretion and conditioning factors. Parasit Vectors 2021; 14:246. [PMID: 33964977 PMCID: PMC8106216 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-021-04747-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Equine ascariosis, caused by Parascaris spp., is a worldwide endoparasitic disease affecting young horses in particular. Despite the great number of horses reared in Italy, large-scale epidemiological surveys dealing with ascariosis prevalence in the country are not reported in the current literature. For this reason, the present survey aims to describe, for the first time, the spread and infestation of Parascaris spp. in a large population of Italian horses (6896 animals) using faecal egg counts, and further to identify risk factors associated with ascarid egg shedding. Methods Individual rectal faecal samples collected during routine veterinary examinations were used and Parascaris spp. prevalence was tested against the animal’s age, sex, housing conditions, geographic provenance as well as the respective sampling season. Results Among the examined stables, 35.8% showed at least one horse to be positive for Parascaris spp. eggs and an overall prevalence of 6.3% was found. Ascariosis rates tended to decrease significantly with age and, proportionally, 80.0% of the recorded Parascaris spp. eggs were found in 0.7% of the examined animals. Statistically significant differences among prevalence rates were found between the different geographic areas of provenance and prevalence was found to be higher in horses reared outdoors compared to those raised indoors. Analysis of data based on sex and season did not show any significant differences. Despite the lower prevalence found compared to other European countries, ascariosis was concluded to represent a significant health challenge for horses reared in Italy, especially foals. Age (foals and yearlings) and outdoor rearing were identified to be significant risk factors for Parascaris spp. egg shedding. Furthermore, the relevance of the infected horses over 6 years of age should not be underestimated as these represent a significant source of contamination for younger animals. Conclusions The development of improved treatment protocols based on regular faecal examination combined with follow-up assessment of the efficacy of integrated action plans would prove beneficial in regard to animal health and anthelmintic resistance reduction in the field. Graphic Abstract
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Scala
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università di Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Claudia Tamponi
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università di Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Giuliana Sanna
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università di Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | | | - Luisa Meloni
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università di Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Stephane Knoll
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università di Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Giampietro Sedda
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università di Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Giorgia Dessì
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università di Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | | | - Antonio Varcasia
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università di Sassari, Sassari, Italy.
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