GASTRO-INTESTINAL PARASITES IN WILD CARNIVORES OF WESTERN GHATS OF TAMIL NADU

Aim:A longitudinal study was conducted to assess the epidemiology of common gastrointestinal parasite (GIP) infections affecting goats in South Africa as influenced by agro-ecological zone (AEZ), sampling season, and the age and sex of animals.Materials and Methods:A total of 288 goats (101 male and 187 female) were randomly sampled during winter and summer in areas representing four AEZs (arid: 80; semi-arid: 76; humid: 62; and dry sub-humid: 70) of South Africa. Fecal samples from each animal were collected from the rectum, and the presence of GIP eggs was determined using a modified McMaster technique. A sample was considered positive when a minimum of one GIP egg was detected under the microscope. Fecal cultures were prepared, and infective larvae were collected and identified. The data were analyzed by MiniTab17 (2017) using the FREQ procedure, and the association between the independent factors and the prevalence of various GIPs were evaluated using the Pearson Chi-square test (p<0.05).Results:The overall prevalence of GIP in the present study was 37.1%, with a mean prevalence of 30.0, 26.4, 31.1, 36.6, and 59.6% for Eimeria spp., Trichuris, Strongyloides papillosus, Moniezia spp., and strongyles, respectively. There was a significant (p<0.05) association between the prevalence of strongyles, Trichuris, Moniezia spp., and AEZs, whereas an insignificant (p>0.05) association was observed for the prevalence of Eimeria spp. and S. papillosus. A significant (p<0.05) association between goat age and prevalence of all GIPs was observed, where the prevalence was higher in young goats, followed by adults, and then by suckling goats. The prevalence of various GIPs was similar between male and female goats. The percentage of infection with Eimeria spp., Trichuris, S. papillosus, and strongyle parasitic infections was marginally higher in males than in females, whereas that of the Moniezia spp. was higher in females. A significant (p<0.05) association between the prevalence of Eimeria spp. and sampling season was observed, and there was an insignificant (p>0.05) association between the other GIPs and sampling season. The prevalence of Eimeria spp. infection was higher in winter (34.0%) than in summer (26.0%).Conclusion:AEZs and goat age are the most important risk factors influencing GIP infections in South African communal goats. These epidemiological parameters are important for outlining effective parasite control management systems against these GIPs in goats.

To assess the prevalence of bowel parasites in patients in Wasit City, Iraq. Already Blastocystis hominis is gaining recognition as an agent of intestinal disease in humans. A cases study was conducted regarding the cause of gastroenteritis in humans. Wet mount preparation and formalin-ether concentration, examination of a total of 300 specimens of stools.(146) persons infected with gastrointestinal parasites infection percentage (48.67 %). 103 (70.55%) these specimens from patients with gastrointestinal infection contained B. hominis Parasite alone, the appearance of severe symptoms has been associated with increased parasite numbers in diarrheal specimens (more than five parasites per field with x400), magnification) included (Cryptosporidium, Entamoeba. histolytica, Giardia intestinalis, Entamoeba coli. Enterobius vermicularis, Hymenlepis nana). 43 (29.45%) had other pathogenic parasites, in addition to B. hominis in the same specimen. monthly rate of infection (24.33 %), the highest rate on infection with gastrointestinal parasites in May was (57.42%) and the lowest rate percentage of infection was in January (28.76%); Infection percentage in dependence on Sexes of patients representation in positive sample stool with gastrointestinal parasites, the highest parasite infections were 87 (59.59 %); cases in male, the parasite infection were 59(40.41) cases in female. Infection percentage according of age groups, rate of ages of patients’ representation in positive sample stool with gastrointestinal parasites, the highest rate of ages in patients group were (15-24), Percentage of infection 44 (30.14 % ). And the lowest rate percentage included the age group were (55-65) Percentage of infection 18 (12.33%).The purpose of the research is to determine the B. hominis frequency among Gastrointestinal and B hominis Symptomatic Diarrhea Infections.

A study was conducted on cattle and buffaloes in western region of Gujarat to determine the incidence of gastrointestinal parasites (GIPs) infection in it. Coprological examination revealed, higher incidence of GIPs infections in cattle compared to buffaloes. Overall, incidence of parasitic infections in both cattle and buffaloes was recorded highest for protozoan parasites followed by nematode, trematode and least for cestode. Age wise, the highest incidence of GI parasitic infections was recorded in up to 2 years age group followed by 2–5 years aged and lowest in above 5 years aged animals. Significantly, higher prevalence of GI parasites was recorded in female cattle and buffaloes compared to male. Seasonally, significantly higher percentage of GI parasitic infections was recorded in monsoon followed by winter compared to summer. Similarly, breed wise, significantly higher infection of GI parasites was recorded in Gir cattle compared to Jaffrabadi buffaloes.

The term "Biodiversity Hotspot" refers to a geographical region with a high level of diversity and a large number of endemic species that have been overexploited over time. India has four biodiversity hotspots: the Himalayan biodiversity hotspot, the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot, the Sundaland biodiversity hotspot, and the Western Ghats biodiversity hotspot. Human activities have significantly impacted the biodiversity of these hotspot regions. Therefore, it is important to conserve these areas to ensure the survival of various species and the future well-being of both organisms and humans. The Western Ghats is considered the most diverse hotspot in India and is renowned for its unique and rich biodiversity. Among the invertebrates in the Western Ghats, land snails are particularly important, but they have been rarely studied or exploited. There are 270 species of snails in the Western Ghats, with 204 of them being endemic to the region. Additionally, out of the 330 species of butterflies in the area, 37 are endemic. The Western Ghats also supports a high level of endemism in reptiles and amphibians. However, the level of endemism is lower in mammals compared to other groups of organisms. Several endemic species in the Western Ghats, such as the lion-tailed macaque (Macaca silenus), Malabar civet (Viverra civettina), Nilgiri tahr (Hemitragus hylocrius), and Red slender loris (Loris tardigradus), are facing significant threats and are classified as "vulnerable" or "endangered." Today, the life-sustaining and biodiversity-rich ecosystems of the Western Ghats are under threat due to habitat pressures, leading it to be declared as one of the world's hottest hotspots of biodiversity.

Background and Aim:Bullfighting is booming in South Thailand, attracting tourists, and stimulating local economies. The bulls are well raised and practiced, but in many cases, the owners lack knowledge and understanding of the prevention of animal diseases, including parasitic infections. This study aimed to determine the occurrence of gastrointestinal (GI) parasite infection in fighting bulls.Materials and Methods:A total of 1501 fecal samples were collected from bulls aged 2-5 years visiting the animal hospital of Prince of Songkla University during 2016-2019. The formalin ethylether concentration method was used to detect GI parasites in feces.Results:The overall rate of GI parasite infection was 94.27%. Rumen fluke eggs were detected in 97.17% of all infected animals, followed in prevalence by strongyles (26.29%), Eurytrema spp. (2.83%), Fasciola spp. (2.47%), Trichuris spp. (0.35%), and Moniezia spp. (0.14%). Two protozoan genera were identified, Balantidium coli (6.64%) and Eimeria spp. (3.53%). Coinfection was observed in 33.99%. The five most common coinfections were rumen fluke with strongyles (20.85%), B. coli (4.66%), Eimeria spp. (1.55%), Eurytrema spp. (1.34%), and Fasciola spp. (1.06%).Conclusion:In addition to high GI parasite infection rates, zoonotic parasites were observed. Therefore, it is recommended that farmers should follow good sanitation and prevention practices to control parasitic infections in bulls, and proper hygienic precautions should be taken by the owners. Implementation of deworming programs using appropriateanthelmintic drugs as well as rotation of anthelmintic drug that have different chemical agent to prevent further drug resistance should be considered. The promotion of bull health management is highly recommended to protect humans from zoonotic diseases.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the current knowledge on the epidemiology of importance zoonotic parasitic diseases in free-ranging canids of Mazandaran, north of Iran. Overall, 63 small intestinal samples of animals (20 stray dogs and 43 golden jackals) were collected from April 2017 to May 2018. The intestine contents were studied to detect and identify helminth infections. Additionally, 274 fecal samples (130 dogs, 35 fox, 90 golden jackal and 19 wolf) were examined by Sheather's flotation method for detection of Taenia eggs. Sixty (95.2%) animals were infected with at least one species of intestinal helminth. the intestinal helminths were found in dogs and golden jackals included: Dipylidium caninum (25.3%), Uncinaria stenocephala (52.3%), Ancylostoma caninum (41.2%), Mesocestoides spp. (33.3%) and Toxocara canis (14.2%). In fecal examination, 2.5% of samples contained Taenia eggs, and through a species-specific PCR, 1.09% of these samples were confirmed positive for Echinococcus granulosus. There is a high prevalence and clear risks of zoonotic helminths in free-ranging carnivores in Mazandaran province, north of Iran. Therefore, understanding the epidemiology of zoonotic parasite infection is useful for health care access both domestic animals and humans health.

BackgroundThis study aimed to determine the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites (GIP) in the rural community of West Ismailia and its associated risk factors. Human infection by GIP is natural and expected. There are few records concerning parasitic infection in the rural areas of the Ismailia Governorate.MethodsFrom 520 individuals, sociodemographic and risk factors information were retrieved. Fecal samples were collected, concentrated, and tested for GIP infection using a microscopic examination.ResultsThe West Ismailia study population had a 40.4% prevalence of GIP infection, including single and concomitant parasite infections. The most common cause of GIP infection was protists (38%). Entamoeba sp., Blastocystis sp., and G. duodenalis were the most common parasites. Poly-parasitism was prevalent within the West Ismailia region. Age, abdominal symptoms, perianal itching, ownership of numerous animal species, exposure to turbid water, previous parasitic infection (PPI), and non-treatment reception of PPI were all considered significant factors associated with GIP infection. Specific individuals from the same family have been observed to have identical GIP.ConclusionGIP infection remains underestimated in rural areas. Periodic screening and treatment for GIP infection in children and public education on GIP hazards and prevention, focusing on personal hygiene, are recommended. Family members of affected individuals should be screened and treated for GIP.

Gastrointestinal (GI) parasites not only significantly impact goat health and productivity but can also affect human health due to the zoonotic potential of some species. This study investigates the prevalence of internal parasites within the tropical monsoon ecosystem of southern Thailand, focusing on both phenotypic and molecular characteristics of the parasites and identifying associated risk factors in caprine farming systems. A total of 276 meat goats from Nakhon Si Thammarat province were examined, indicating an overall GI parasite prevalence of 88.8% (245/276), with strongyles and Eimeria spp. identified as the dominant parasites. In addition, mixed parasitic infections were observed in 72.2% of cases, whereas single infections comprised 27.8%. Strongyle-positive fecal samples were cultured and genetically sequenced, revealing the presence of Haemonchus contortus, Trichostrongylus colubriformis, and Oesophagostomum asperum. For associated risk factors, gender and grazing with other herds significantly impacted overall GI parasitic infections, while the gender, breed, and packed cell volume (PCV) affected the strongyle infection. A correlation analysis revealed a substantial relationship between strongyle egg per gram (EPG) counts and clinical parameters, indicating that monitoring animals with low body condition scores (BCS) and high Faffa Malan Chart (FAMACHA) scores could be an effective strategy for controlling strongyle infections. These findings highlight the importance of continued research and effective farm management practices to address strongyle infections in meat goats, improving their health and agricultural productivity in tropical regions. Moreover, the detection of four zoonotic parasites (Giardia spp., H. contortus, T. colubriformis, and Fasciola spp.) indicates the necessity for the routine surveillance and monitoring of zoonotic parasites in goats to mitigate potential human health risks.

Markhor (Capra Falconeri), is notably endangered ungulate native to the northern mountains of Chitral, Pakistan, specifically within the Chitral Goal National Park and Tooshe Shaha Conservancy Area (TSC), is facing a serious threat from gastrointestinal (GI) parasites. These parasites adversely affect the health of Markhor, resulting in pathological and immunological degeneration. The conservation plan for Markhor is further complicated by climate change, introducing challenges, particularly in terms of hunting trophies. This study, conducted from October 2022 to May 2023. The primary goal was to evaluate the prevalence and distribution of gastrointestinal parasites in Markhor within the Chitral national parks. A total of n=200 fecal samples were processed and analyzed using flotation, sedimentation techniques, and the McMaster slide method to identify the prevailing parasites in these samples, 64% tested positive for various helminthes eggs and larvae. The prevalence rates for specific helminth species were identified as follows: strongyles 20%, trichostrongyles 14.5%, ostertagia 11%, haemonchus 8.5%, and trichuris 10%. Notably, 44% of positive animals exhibited co-infections. The collected fecal samples detected no eggs or larvae of trematodes (flukes) or cestodes (tapeworms). An overall protozoan infection proportion of 47.5% indicated that nearly half of the fecal samples were positive for protozoan parasites. Eimeria was present in 31.5% of the samples, while Entamoebiosis caused by Entamoeba was found in 15.5%. Gastrointestinal parasites were observed to be widely distributed among Markhor, posing a significant burden of various parasites and increasing the risks of morbidity and mortality. This research highlights the health challenges resulting from parasitic infections in the Markhor (Capra Falconeri) population as substantial contributors to poor health outcomes. It calls for collaborative efforts among stakeholders to address these challenges and ensure the long-term survival of Markhor conservation. Furthermore, it highlights the importance of preserving the natural habitat of Markhor populations in the northern Chitral region to prevent infections and habitat degradation.

A cross sectional, coprological survey on gastrointestinal (GI) parasites of captive mammals in the Dehiwala National Zoological Gardens was carried out in 2014. Fresh faecal samples from all the mammal species belonging to nine orders: Primates, Carnivora, Perissodactyla, Artiodactyla, Proboscidea, Erinaceomorpha, Lagomorpha, Rodentia and Diprotodontia were analyzed. Intensity of parasite infections was determined using the McMaster technique. Of the 70 samples, 44 (62.9%) were positive for one or more GI parasites. A total of 13 types of GI parasite eggs, cysts and/or oocysts of Trichuris sp., Strongyloides sp., Toxocara sp., Spirometra sp., Moniezia sp., Nematodirus sp., Giardia sp., Blastocystis sp., Balantidium sp., Entamoeba spp., strongyle type eggs, hookworm, and coccidian oocyts were observed. The most common stage was strongyle type egg (17.1%) followed by cysts of Entamoeba spp. (14.3%). Of the infected individuals, 25% had mixed infections. A higher prevalence of helminths (81.8%) compared to protozoans (47.7%) was observed but this difference was not statistically significant (Chi square test; p>0.05). There was no significant difference in the prevalence of infection among the captive bred, imported or wild caught individuals (Chi square test; p>0.05). Mammals of seven orders were infected with GI parasites but lagomorphs and diprotodonts did not have any parasites. Among the herbivores, strongyle type, Moneizia, Entamoeba and coccidian infections were common while Nematodirus sp. in a porcupine and Spirometra sp. in a flying squirrel were rare. Common parasites of carnivores were, Toxocara and Entamoeba but Blastocystis sp. in coati was a rare infection. Trichuris and Giardia infections were common in Primates. High worm burden was evidenced in silver leaf monkey, Hamadryas baboon, African lion, black rhino, pony, porcupine and flying squirrel. Although regular deworming is carried out, results of this survey highlight the importance of faecal analysis before administering deworming and applying a more targeted approach to manage the pathogenic species. This study provides baseline data on the GI parasites of all the mammal orders at Dehiwala Zoological Gardens.

Gastrointestinal (GI) parasites are major contributors to decrease productivity in livestock over the world. A cross-sectional study was conducted in different areas of Bangladesh to determine the prevalence of GI parasitic infections and their association with the biotic and abiotic factors in sheep. A total of 572 faecal samples were collected from the selected areas of Bangladesh and microscopic examination was performed for the identification of parasites using flotation and sedimentation technique. Out of 572, 441 animals were found infected with one or more species of GI parasites with an overall prevalence of 77.1%. Nine types of parasites from four different classes were detected namely Strongyles (42.1%), Strongyloides sp. (27.1%) and Trichuris sp. (1.0%), Moniezia sp. (2.4%), Paramphistomum cervi (32.5%), Fasciola gigantica (6.1%) and Schistosoma sp. (3.5%), coccidia (16.6%) and Balantidium coli (7.9%). Nematodes infections (56.8%) were significantly highest among trematodes (37.9%), protozoa (24.4%) and cestode (2.4%). In the present study, all the biotic factors including sex, age, physiological condition of female and body condition score (BCS) of animals were insignificantly (p>0.05) associated with the prevalence of GI parasitic infection in sheep but among the abiotic factors, muddy housing of animals, rainy season, having no knowledge about GI parasites and illiteracy of farmers were significantly (p<0.05) associated with the GI parasitic infections. This epidemiological investigation will assist to build a suitable control program against GI parasites in sheep and thus, help to prevent production loss and increase livelihood of small holder farmers.

Gastrointestinal (GI) parasites infection are one of the major constraints cattle farm in tropical countries including Indonesia and some of GI parasites in cattle have the potential to transmit to humans. This study was aimed to identify and determine the level of prevalence of gastrointestinal (GI) parasites in beef cattle in Siak Sri Indrapura District, Riau Province, Indonesia. This research was conducted on 100 beef cattle consisted of, respectively, 32, 34 and 34 cattles from Bungaraya, Sabak Auh, and Dayun sub-district. The characteristic of sample such as age and sex cattle, cage management, feed and drinking water were recorded. Native, sedimentation and sucrose flotation methods were used to find protozoa and eggs worm. We assessed GI parasites based on finding eggs worm, protozoan cyst and coccidial oocysts in stool samples and identification of GI parasite was based on the morphology and size of the eggs worm and cysts or oocysts of protozoan. The result showed that all of 100 feces samples that examined 100% positive infection for parasites. There were eleven types of gastrointestinal parasites that have been identified, 6 genera of protozoan and 5 genera of worms. The prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in beef cattles in Siak Sri Indrapura District were Blastocystis sp. (100%), Entamoeba sp. (90%), Eimeria sp. (53%), Giardia sp. (7%), Balantidium coli (4%), Cryptosporidium sp. (2%) Oesophagustomum sp. (45%), Toxocara vitulorum (20%), Moniezia expansa (9%), Trichuris sp. (5%), and Fasciola sp. (4%). In conclusion, Siak Sri Indrapura Riau is an endemic GI parasite and this can threaten the health of livestock and potentially as a zoonotic transmission.

Changes in biochemical analytes in calves infected by nematode parasites in field conditions

Background: Gastrointestinal parasitic diseases remain an obstacle to goat farmers in Somalia and worldwide. Purpose: This study aimed to determine the prevalence and associated risk factors of gastrointestinal parasites in goats in the Afgooye district, Lower Shabelle region, Somalia. Methods: To fulfill this study, an examination of 384 fecal samples of goats kept by smallholders was conducted. The results were achieved during the period from August 2020 to January 2022. Results: The examination of fecal samples revealed that the overall prevalence of gastrointestinal parasitic infections among goats was 71.61%. The data analysis conducted during the study indicated that there is no significant association (P &gt; 0.05) between goat districts and gastrointestinal (GI) parasite infection. The corresponding percentage of gastrointestinal parasites in males and females was 70% and 72%, respectively. However, these variables were not significantly associated (p-value = 0.399). After categorization, age was not significantly associated with the parasitic infection status of the animal. The common parasitic infections prevalent were Nematode, Trematode, Cestode, and Protozoa types were found in different numbers. According to the flotation and sedimentation techniques, Eimeria sp. (29%) was found with higher prevalence followed by Haemonchus sp. (23%), Trichostrongylus sp. (11%), Moniezia sp. (10%), Trichuris sp. (9%), Strongyloides sp. (7%), Dictyocaulus sp. (5.2%), Nematodirus (4%), and least was Fasciola sp. (1.0%). Conclusion: This study provides comprehensive documentation on multiple GI parasites among goats in the Afgooye district, Lower Shabelle region of South-western State, Somalia, and the findings are crucial for effective farm management, especially for formulating the effective GI parasitic control vis-a-vis novel elimination strategies.

Indigenous beef cattle engaged in bullfighting in Southern Thailand represent a distinctive and valuable breed. Gastrointestinal (GI) parasites, which are recognized as important pathogens, have a negative impact on the overall health and physical performance of these fighting bulls. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of GI parasitic infections and identify factors associated with these infections in a fighting bull population in Southern Thailand. Fecal samples (n = 4,244) from fighting bulls were submitted to the Laboratory and Diagnostic Centre of the Teaching Animal Hospital, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Rajamangala University of Technology Srivijaya. We examined the samples using simple flotation and centrifugal sedimentation methods. Individual animal profiles and demographic data were collected. The overall prevalence of GI parasitic infections was 93.2%. Nine GI parasites were identified as Paramphistome spp. [PP]. being the most prevalent (93.2%), and the highest annual prevalence occurred in 2019 (97.9%). The infection rates of various parasite species were significantly related to the years of study, geographic area, season, and age group (p < 0.05). The prevalence of parasitic infection was higher on the west coast (98.6%) than on the east coast (98.0%). PP, Eurytrema spp., Strongyles spp., and Buxtonella spp. infections differed significantly among the seven provinces of Southern Thailand (p < 0.05). The prevalence of GI parasitic infections was higher during the rainy season (98.5%) than during the summer (97.7%). Bulls aged 7.0-7.9 years and 8.0-8.9 years had the highest parasite infection rate (99.2%) compared with those aged 8.0-8.9. GI parasitic infections continue to be a significant health concern among fighting bulls in Southern Thailand. Regular epidemiological investigations are crucial for developing effective preventive programs and control strategies and providing basic knowledge for bull farmers.