Fecal Flotation Research Articles

Diagnosis of canine intestinal parasites: Improved detection of Dipylidium caninum infection through coproantigen testing

Intestinal parasites, including cestodes like Dipylidium caninum, are common in dogs in the United States of America (USA), but fecal flotation consistently, and, at times, dramatically, fails to identify many of these infections. To determine the extent to which including coproantigen testing for D. caninum would improve the identification of dogs infected with this cestode, we evaluated fecal samples from 877 dogs (589 pet and 288 from municipal shelters) from six USA states using zinc sulfate (specific gravity 1.24) fecal flotation with centrifugation along with coproantigen detection for Giardia sp., hookworms, ascarids, and Trichuris vulpis. For D. caninum, PCR of perianal swabs was included. Intestinal parasite infections were identified, using centrifugal fecal flotation or coproantigen, in 265 dogs (13.2 % pet, 64.9 % shelter). Dipylidium caninum infection was detected in 5.6 % of dogs with the combination of coproantigen and centrifugal fecal flotation, and 7.3 % of dogs when perianal swab results were included; prevalence varied by diagnostic method, population, and geographic region. In pet dogs, D. caninum infection was identified by fecal flotation (0), coproantigen (2.2 %), or perianal swabs (1.2 %). The same methods revealed infection in 0.3 %, 12.5 %, and 11.1 % of shelter dogs, respectively. Frequent use of praziquantel in shelter dogs (116/288; 40.3 %) may have reduced prevalence. Positive and negative agreement of D. caninum coproantigen with perianal swab PCR in pet dogs was 85.7 % and 98.8 %, respectively. Multiple logistic regression analysis accounting for region, population, and age found D. caninum infection to be more common in shelter dogs relative to pet (adjusted OR 4.91 [2.48, 10.24]) and in the Southcentral and Southeast regions relative to North (adjusted OR 9.59 [1.92, 174.13] and 17.69 [3.67, 318.09] respectively). Coproantigen testing also enhanced the detection of other intestinal parasites over fecal flotation alone, including Giardia sp. (14.7 % vs 3.3 %), hookworms (13.8 % vs 8.4 %), ascarids (2.9 % vs 2.2 %), and T. vulpis (2.9 % vs 1.4 %). Together, these data indicate that the coproantigen assay employed increases detection of D. caninum infections several fold, supporting the use of this test in clinical practice, and add to a growing body of research documenting enhanced diagnosis through implementation of multiple laboratory-based methods.

Parasites and zoonotic bacteria in the feces of cats and dogs from animal shelters in Carinthia, Austria

Due to their close associations with humans, dogs and cats can be important reservoirs for zoonotic pathogens. In the current study 200 fecal samples of dogs (n = 70 samples) and cats (n = 130 samples) from animal shelters in Carinthia, southern Austria, were examined for the presence of parasites (fecal flotation and larval migration assay) and selected bacteria. Overall, 17.1% of the canine and 38.5% of the feline samples were positive for parasites (p < 0.001), most commonly Giardia duodenalis (dogs and cats), including potentially zoonotic genotypes revealed by multilocus genotyping, and Toxocara cati (cats). Cryptosporidium (C. felis), Cystoisospora spp. (dogs and cats), hookworms (dog), Trichuris (dog) Capillaria hepatica (cats), taeniids (cat), and Aelurostrongylus abstrusus (cat) were also found. Zoonotic bacteria were detected in 10.5% of the samples, Salmonella enterica (dogs), Campylobacter jejuni (dogs and cats) and Yersinia enterocolitica (cat) and were significantly associated with parasite infections in cats but not in dogs. Samples that were positive for several pathogens were common; especially G. duodenalis and T. cati were frequently found in association with each other, other parasites or bacteria. The spectrum of detected pathogens is comparable to that of other dog and cat populations in central Europe. However, since animals from shelters are frequently rehomed, diagnostic measures, appropriate hygiene and therapy as well as training of shelter staff are recommended to prevent zoonotic transmission of enteropathogens to staff or new owners. The presence of heteroxenic parasites, i.e. Aelurostrongylus abstrusus and Taenia taeniaeformis, and spurious excretion of Ca. hepatica in cats, indicates that these animals preyed on intermediate hosts, and that biosafety measures in pet shelters need to be evaluated for their efficacy in the prevention of pathogen transmission.

Exploring the anthelmintic activity of Olea europaea L (Olive) leaves extract and oleuropein in mice naturally infected with Aspiculuris tetraptera.

Oxyuriasis, caused by the nematode Enterobius vermicularis, is one of the cosmopolitan intestinal infections of humans. Aspiculuris tetraptera commonly infects mice and it is morphologically similar to E. vermicularis. Parasitic resistance reduces the efficiency of synthetic drugs and poses economic impacts on the dairy sector, thus necessitating novel anthelmintic agents. Olea europaea L. (Olive) is a bioactive plant with potent pharmacological activities. However, its effects on oxyurids are poorly known, and no studies are currently exploring olives' anthelmintic potential. In this study, we investigated the pharmacokinetic behaviors of O. europaea leaves extract (OLE) and its phenolic compound oleuropein in mice infected with A. tetraptera, in comparison with Albendazole (ABZ), a standard drug used to treat parasitic worms. Fecal flotation method was used to identify the infestation with A. tetraptera eggs by examining the stool samples from mice. Infected animals were divided into 7 groups. 250 mg/kg, 500 mg/kg, and 1000 mg/kg doses of OLE, 5 mg/kg and 20 mg/kg doses of oleuropein, 10 mg/kg of ABZ and tap water were orally administered by gavage for 7 days during treatments. Drug efficacies and statistical differences between the treatments and controls were evaluated. Our results revealed 92.43 % efficacy of ABZ, similar to 92.19 % efficacy of 1000 mg/kg of OLE. At the same time, 250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg concentrations of OLE remained 70.03 % and 63.18 % effective in reducing worm counts. Efficacy percentages of 5 mg/kg and 20 mg/kg of oleuropein were 9.27 % and 70.56 %, respectively. Statistical analysis of ABZ was significant compared to 1000 mg/kg of OLE, which was almost equal but insignificant. In general, our results confirm the anthelmintic potential of OLE and oleuropein against mice pinworms and open the way for targeted extraction of bioactive compounds from plants to optimize its use in human and veterinary medicine.

Comparative study of a broad qPCR panel and centrifugal flotation for detection of gastrointestinal parasites in fecal samples from dogs and cats in the United States

BackgroundFor decades, zinc sulfate centrifugal fecal flotation microscopy (ZCF) has been the mainstay technique for gastrointestinal (GI) parasite screening at veterinary clinics and laboratories. Elsewhere, PCR has replaced microscopy because of generally increased sensitivity and detection capabilities; however, until recently it has been unavailable commercially. Therefore, the primary aim of this study was to compare the performance of real-time PCR (qPCR) and ZCF for fecal parasite screening. Secondary aims included further characterization of markers for hookworm treatment resistance and Giardia spp. assemblages with zoonotic potential and qPCR optimization.MethodsA convenience sampling of 931 canine/feline fecal samples submitted to a veterinary reference laboratory for routine ZCF from the Northeast US (11/2022) was subsequently evaluated by a broad qPCR panel following retention release. Detection frequency and agreement (kappa statistics) were evaluated between ZCF and qPCR for seven GI parasites [hookworm/(Ancylostoma spp.), roundworm/(Toxocara spp.), whipworm/(Trichuris spp.), Giardiaduodenalis, Cystoisospora spp., Toxoplasmagondii, and Tritrichomonasblagburni] and detections per sample. Total detection frequencies were compared using a paired t-test; positive sample and co-infection frequencies were compared using Pearson’s chi-squared test (p ≤ 0.05 significant) and qPCR frequency for hookworm benzimidazole (BZ) resistance (F167Y) and zoonotic Giardia spp. assemblage markers calculated. Confirmatory testing, characterization, and qPCR optimization were carried out with Sanger sequencing.ResultsqPCR detected a significantly higher overall parasite frequency (n = 679) compared to ZCF (n = 437) [p = < 0.0001, t = 14.38, degrees-of-freedom (df) = 930] and 2.6 × the co-infections [qPCR (n = 172) vs. ZCF (n = 66)], which was also significant (p = < 0.0001, X2 = 279.49; df = 1). While overall agreement of parasite detection was substantial [kappa = 0.74; (0.69–0.78], ZCF-undetected parasites reduced agreement for individual and co-infected samples. qPCR detected markers for Ancylostomacaninum BZ resistance (n = 5, 16.1%) and Giardia with zoonotic potential (n = 22, 9.1%) as well as two parasites undetected by ZCF (T.gondii/T.blagburni). Sanger sequencing detected novel roundworm species, and qPCR optimization provided detection beyond ZCF.ConclusionsThese results demonstrate the statistically significant detection frequency advantage offered by qPCR compared to routine ZCF for both single and co-infections. While overall agreement was excellent, this rapid, commercially available qPCR panel offers benefits beyond ZCF with detection of markers for Giardia assemblages with zoonotic potential and hookworm (A.caninum) BZ resistance.Graphical

Use of Parasitological and Molecular Methods in Giardia sp. Detection in Animals Held in Captivity

Abstract Protozoa of the genus Giardia cause the disease giardiosis in a large number of animal species, but also in humans. This disease can be either subclinical or followed by diarrhea, malabsorption, weight loss and stunted growth. The aim of this study was to examine the presence of Giardia sp. in different species of animals in Belgrade Zoo (asymptomatic infection) and to compare the sensitivity of parasitological and molecular-genetic methods. Examination of the presence of Giardia sp. protozoa was performed in 52 fecal samples, using fecal flotation and molecular-genetic PCR method. No positive samples were detected when deploying the parasitological method, while PRC analysis revealed the presence of Giardia sp. in one animal - ring-tailed lemur (Lemur catta), which indicates the advantage of the molecular-genetic method over the parasitological one. The absence of Giardia sp. in other samples can be explained by adequate housing conditions, successful implementation of hygienic and sanitary measures, as well as good veterinary practice. Use of PCR method for testing the presence of Giardia sp. showed a higher sensitivity when compared to the fecal flotation method.

Associations between canine hookworm infection and dog owners' awareness, perception, and behaviour: A cross-sectional study in Brisbane, Queensland, 2019-2020.

Canine hookworms are found globally, and infections have been recorded in domestic dogs visiting dog parks in Queensland, Australia. Some canine hookworms also present a risk of zoonotic transmission to humans. Potential transmission of hookworms can occur in the household and at public places because of lack of owner awareness and poor coverage of canine deworming. Between April 2019 and March 2020, faecal samples from owned dogs were collected from 39 dog parks in metropolitan Brisbane, Queensland, and tested for the presence of hookworm eggs using faecal floatation technique. Dog owners who provided samples were requested to complete a survey on their awareness, perceptions and behaviour regarding the risks and consequences of canine parasitic infection. Associations between dog owner demographics and responses to the survey were measured using Goodman and Kruskal's gamma. Statistical associations between canine hookworm infection in dogs and their owner's responses were quantified using a two-sample Wilcoxon rank-sum test. A total of five canine faecal samples from 175 respondents were found positive for hookworm eggs, corresponding to a sample- and park-level prevalence of 2.86% and 12.82%, respectively. Female dog owners were found to be more aware of the importance of regular deworming of their dogs (|γ| = 0.405). Our results indicate that hookworm infection was associated with a lower awareness of the importance of deworming (p = 0.007), less diligence in administration of deworming (p = 0.004), lower awareness of the risk of acquiring parasites from raw meat (p = 0.010), less likelihood of cooking meat before feeding it to their dogs (p = 0.028), and less likelihood to properly dispose their dog's faeces (p = 0.027). This study not only indicates a need for improving owner education towards the importance of deworming but also a need for changing owner's behaviours to reduce potential environmental contamination with infective hookworms. The latter in particular indicates a broader public health risk of disease transmission in public places due to improper disposal of dog faeces, especially in areas with higher canine hookworm infections.

Camel gastrointestinal helminths in selected districts of Fafan zone, eastern Ethiopia

A cross-sectional study was conducted to estimate the incidence and prevalence of helminths in camels in the Jigjiga and Gursum districts of Fafan zone, Somali regional state of Ethiopia. Fecal samples were collected from individual animals and analyzed using a McMaster fecal flotation method. Fecal samples were mixed with water and centrifuged to remove excess debris prior to mixing with flotation solution and performing the McMaster. For each sample, the number and types of parasite eggs present were recorded. 77.3% of examined camels were found harboring gastrointestinal parasites. Trichostrongylid spp. (68.06%) were the predominant parasite followed by Strongyloides spp. (25.6%), Trichuris spp. (15.5%) and Monezia spp. (8.4%). Risk factors for gastrointestinal parasite prevalence included age, body condition score and fecal quality (P < 0.05). Camels from the Gursum district had a significantly higher mean egg count than camels from the Jigjiga district (868.9 ± 1064.2 vs 351 ± 422.4; F = 20.8, P < 0.001). Moreover, there was a statistically significant difference in mean egg count between the sexes (F = 5.9, P = 0.02), with females (724.6 ± 960.6) having higher egg counts than males (373.4 ± 470.6). This study indicates that gastrointestinal helminths are highly prevalent and may affect the health and productivity of the camels in pastoral areas of Fafan zone.

119 The effect of parasitic load on the equine microbiome, hematological parameters, and overall body condition

Strongyles are nematode parasites that affect the large intestine and cecum of the horse, with symptoms ranging from loss of condition to colic. Thirty horses from the University of Connecticut campus were used to study the effect of gastrointestinal strongyles on the equine gut microbiome, immune response, body condition, and skin and hair coat conditions. This study included young (n = 16) and adult (n = 14) horses each fall and spring from Fall 2020 to Spring 2022, with young horses 1 to 5 years old and adult horses 6 to 19 years old. Fecal flotation analysis was performed at the beginning of each fall and spring season to classify horses as susceptible to parasites if they had 300 or more strongyle eggs per gram (EPG) or resistant to parasites if they had less than 300 strongyle EPG. Fecal and blood samples were collected each fall and spring to assess gut microbial composition, complete cell counts, and differential cell counts. Body condition scores and body weights were assessed twice per season. Dermatological conditions were recorded once monthly. A split plot design with age as the main effect and fecal egg count (FEC) as the split plot effect was used. Adult and young horses that were susceptible to parasites had significantly increased percentages oflymphocytes and neutrophils and decreased percentages of monocytes and eosinophils compared with horses that were resistant to parasites in Fall 2021 and Spring 2022 (P < 0.05). In adult horses, linear correlation analysis revealed that as parasite load increased, body weight decreased (r = −0.29) and complete cell count decreased (r = −0.29), although these trends were not observed in young horses. Ten percent of the variation seen in microbial community structure was due to phenotype. Linear correlation analysis revealed some changes in skin and hair condition, such as an increase in skin moistness (r = 0.32), tailhead moistness (r = 0.36), and hair thickness (r = 0.44) as parasite load increased and a decrease in hair luster (r = −0.32) as parasite load increased. The effects of strongyle infection on dermatology are still unclear as some of the effects seen contradict previous literature and warrant further investigation. Strongyle load may affect body weight in adult horses. Strongyle infection may affect immune response, but have a minimal effect on microbial composition.

130 Investigation of age, status, season, and sex on equine parasitic load in a university program

Strongyles are nematode parasites that can damage the horse's large intestine and cecum and cause symptoms of colic, anemia, and weight loss. Sixty-four horses from the University of Connecticut campus were used to study parasitic shedding patterns, to determine if there was a seasonal, age, sex or work status effect. Horses were assigned to different statuses based on living and exercise situations. The goal of analyses was to assess whether there was a change in parasite count over time, and whether horse age, status and sex had any effect on parasite count. Fecal samples of all horses were collected in March and October for 5 years. Fecal flotation testing was done to evaluate strongyle eggs per gram (EPG). Zero-inflated (ZI), negative binomial mixed effects models were used to evaluate changes in parasite counts over time. Both conditional (nonzero parasite counts) and ZI components were adjusted for status, age, sex, and the interaction of status and year. Horse ID was treated as a random effect, to account for repeated measurements. No sex effect on parasitic load was found with either the conditional or ZI models. Similarly, neither status norseason were significantly associated statistically with parasite counts. Initial age did have an effect on conditional parasite counts, with regression results suggesting that as age increased, parasite counts decreased. Although we have some evidence of declining parasite loads at UConn, this effect was only significant for spring sampling. Fall sampling occurred after the horses had been turned out over the summer, so perhaps they are then at greater risk for getting a heavier parasite load. The decline over the years in the March data could be due to the implementation of a parasitic control protocol by barn management 4 years into the study. This study appears to agree with other studies in that older horses are less affected by internal parasites than their younger counterparts. The parasitic control protocol implemented by barn management appears to have had a positive effect on horses in the spring. More research is needed to determine if this protocol will eventually have an effect on the fall as well.

A coprological survey on helminths of Jackal Canis aureus Linnaeus 1758 in Kashmir Himalaya.

A coprological examination was carried out between February 2017 and January 2019 to determine the prevalence of gastrointestinal helminths in jackals of Kashmir Himalaya, India. Fecal floatation and sedimentation technique revealed helminths in 215 scats out of 879 examined scats, with overall helminth prevalence of 24.45%. In the study, five different species of helminths were detected in scats of jackal: Toxocara canis (22.86%), Ancylostoma caninum (20.47%), Dipylidium caninum (17.17%), Trichuris vulpis (19.34%), and taeniid eggs (13.65%). One helminth species was found in (0.11%) of the jackal scats, two were in (1.25%), three were in (4.77%), four were in (16.38%), and five were in (1.92%). Toxocara canis, a nematode with great zoonotic significance, was most common helminth found in scats of jackal during the study. We observed significant seasonal fluctuation (p < 0.05) in the prevalence of gastrointestinal helminths, with summer having high frequency followed by autumn, spring, and winter having lowest prevalence. The study area's jackal population's preponderance of zoonotic helminth species suggests a high risk of zoonotic infection by canine intestinal helminths. This study will aid veterinarians in better plan preventative strategies with regard to wild animal intestinal parasites.

Survey for Selected Parasites in Alaska Brown Bears (Ursus arctos).

To assess infection with or exposure to endo- and ectoparasites in Alaska brown bears (Ursus arctos), blood and fecal samples were collected during 2013-17 from five locations: Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve; Katmai National Park; Lake Clark National Park and Preserve; Yakutat Forelands; and Kodiak Island. Standard fecal centrifugal flotation was used to screen for gastrointestinal parasites, molecular techniques were used to test blood for the presence of Bartonella and Babesia spp., and an ELISA was used to detect antibodies reactive to Sarcoptes scabiei, a species of mite recently associated with mange in American black bears (Ursus americanus). From fecal flotations (n=160), we identified the following helminth eggs: Uncinaria sp. (n=16, 10.0%), Baylisascaris sp. (n=5, 3.1%), Dibothriocephalus sp. (n=2, 1.2%), and taeniid-type eggs (n=1, 0.6%). Molecular screening for intraerythrocytic parasites (Babesia spp.) and intracellular bacteria (Bartonella spp.) was negative for all bears tested. We detected antibodies to S. scabiei in six of 59 (10.2%) individuals. The relatively low level of parasite detection in this study meets expectations for brown bear populations living in large, relatively undisturbed habitats near the northern edge of the range. These results provide a contemporary understanding of parasites in Alaska brown bears and establish baseline levels of parasite presence to monitor for changes over time and relative to ecologic alterations.

The Intensity of Infection and Public Health Perception of Potentially Zoonotic Intestinal Parasites of Dogs in Kwara Central, Nigeria

Background: The close relationship between dogs and humans and the possibility of intestinal parasite transmission from dogs to humans calls for frequent assessment of these potential zoonotic intestinal parasites in dogs and the possibility of their transmission to humans. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the presence, intensity of infection, and public health perception of potentially zoonotic intestinal parasites in dogs of Kwara Central, Nigeria. Methods: The study was conducted in 28 locations in Kwara Central Senatorial District of Kwara State, Nigeria. Three hundred and five healthy dogs were sampled. Two hundred and thirty respondents (dog owners or handlers) were questioned using a well-structured questionnaire containing open-ended and closed-ended questions. Fecal samples from the sampled dogs were subjected to the direct fecal smear technique, simple fecal centrifugation flotation technique, formalin-ethyl acetate concentration technique, and the modified Ziehl-Neelsen staining technique. Oocysts or eggs per gram of feces were counted using the modified McMaster technique. Results: Seven different intestinal parasites (Ancylostoma spp., Cryptosporidium spp., Dipylidium caninum, Isospora spp., Strongyloides stercoralis, Toxocara spp., and Uncinaria stenocephala) were detected, with a prevalence ranging from 2.30% to 25.25%. Of these parasites, 6 were zoonotic. The mean intensities of infection were 91.43 eggs per gram (EPG) for D. caninum¸ 96.52 EPG for S. stercoralis, 129.36 ±28.12 oocysts per gram (OPG) for Isospora spp., 165.17±19.88 for Toxocara spp., 240.00±44.42 for EPG for U. stenocephala, and 303.64±31.83 EPG for Ancylostoma spp. Some dog owners and handlers were not cautious about possible zoonotic parasite transmission from dogs. Conclusion: Zoonotic intestinal parasites of dogs are present and prevalent in Kwara Central, Nigeria. There is a need to educate the public on the possibility of zoonotic parasite transmission to humans.

PREVALENCE AND CHEMOTHERAPY OF COCCIDIAL INFECTIONS IN BROILERS IN MUZAFFARABAD

The present study was performed to know the prevalence of coccidiosis and efficacyof anti-coccidial drugs in the capital city of Muzaffarabad, Azad Kashmir, Pakistan. A total of 573broiler birds of different age groups were sampled from the study area farms and processedaccordingly. Fecal flotation and McMaster egg counting techniques were used for Oocystidentification and counting, respectively. Postmortem of birds was performed to know the lesions and&#x0D; type of coccidiosis present in the birds. Drug trial was also carried out to evaluate the efficacy of anti-coccidial drugs available in the study area market. An overall 19.37% (111/573) prevalence of&#x0D; Coccidiosis was observed in study area. Among different age groups, broilers below three weeks ofage were found more susceptible to infection. During summer season higher prevalence was recorded.Different risk factors were found associated with coccidial infection in the study area. Fiveanticoccidial drugs available in the market have been found effective with different efficacy level.Among the anticoccidial drugs used during the present investigation, Sulphadimerazine 86% hadshown better effect. Besides these anticoccidial drugs, a herbal plant locally known as Sumbal was alsoused and found potent against Coccidiosis. This is a good alternate choice used in field conditionsalong with synthetic anti-coccidial for the treatment and control of coccidiosis. It was deduced thatprevalence of coccidiosis recorded in study area was comparatively lower than prevalence recorded inother parts of the world. Furthermore, Sulphadimerazine 86% have shown comparatively betterefficacy than other drugs.

The prevalence of potentially zoonotic intestinal parasites in dogs and cats in Moscow, Russia.

This study was aimed to determine the prevalence of Toxocara canis/cati, Strongyloides stercoralis, Giardia spp., and Cryptosporidium spp., which occur and are potentially zoonotic to humans in domestic dogs and cats in Moscow (Russia). The fecal flotation method and larvae detection by microscopy of a direct feces smear were performed to detect Toxocara, Giardia spp., and Cryptosporidium spp. The total parasitic prevalence in dogs was as follows: Giardia spp.: 10.2 % (226/2208), Cryptosporidium spp.: 2.7 % (60/2208), T. canis: 2 % (45/2208), S. stercoralis larvae: 1.1 % (25/2208). The younger animals under were infected more than those over 12 months of age (p<0.001). The preva lence rates were along these lines: Giardia spp. (18.2 %), Cryptosporidium spp. (5.7 %), T.canis (3 %), S. stercoralis larvae (2.3 %). The overall prevalence in cats was as follows: Giardia spp. - 5.2 % (71/1350), Cryptosporidium spp. - 4.8 % (65/1350), T. cati - 4.1 % (56/1350). Similarly to dogs, the infection rates were higher in cats under 12 months of age Giardia spp. (8.2 %), Cryptosporidium spp. (8.6 %), T. cati (7.5 %. Analysis of combined infections in dogs revealed the following combinations: Giardia spp. and Cryptosporidium spp. (35.5 %) larvae of S. stercoralis sp. and Giardia spp. (32.3 %), T.canis and Giardia spp. (22.6 %), T.canis and Cryptosporidium spp. (6.6 %), T.canis and S.stercoralis and (3.2 %), respectively. In cats, only two coinfections by Giardia spp. and Cryptosporidium spp. (58.3 %), and T.cati with Giardia spp. (41.7 %) were noticed. Further research is needed to study the spread of parasitic diseases in pet animals. The data will improve countermeasures to prevent these diseases' spread among animals and humans.

Comparison of multiplex copro PCR with coproscopy followed by PCR on recovered eggs for the detection of Echinococcus granulosus and Taenia spp. infection in dogs

Echinococcosis and taeniasis are important helminth diseases that carry considerable impact on human and animal health. Domestic dogs and other canids are definitive hosts for several parasites of this group, including Echinococcus granulosus, Taenia multiceps, T. ovis, T. hydatigena and E. multilocularis. Detection of infection in dog populations is imperative for estimating the risk to susceptible humans and animals, and for its mitigation through prevention measures in dogs, other animals and humans. To date, identification of taeniid eggs, antigens or DNA in fecal samples are the most practical diagnostic modalities available for canine definitive hosts. Although widely used for this purpose, there is limited information comparing copro PCR and combined coproscopy-PCR protocols for the detection of taeniids. In the current study, a widely used multiplex PCR was performed on a large number of dog fecal samples using DNA extracted directly from feces. The samples were also tested by fecal flotation and coproscopy, eggs were isolated from microscopically-positive samples and extracted DNA was tested using the same multiplex PCR. The total number of taeniid positive samples detected using both methods was 46/317 (14.5%), including 10/317 (3.2%) E. granulosus positive samples. Both copro PCR and coproscopy have identified an equal number of samples as taeniid positive (n = 32). However, for the purpose of identification to species level, the copro PCR was significantly more sensitive than coproscopy followed by PCR on isolated eggs (sensitivity 0.7 vs. 0.41, p = 0.012), with 32/317 (10.1%) and 19/317 (6%) positive samples identified, respectively. The difference in identification of E. granulosus was highly apparent, as the majority of the E. granulosus positive samples (8/10) were detected by the copro PCR only. Coproscopy and egg PCR have identified 5/317 (1.6%) positive samples not detected by the copro PCR, including only a single sample (0.3%) positive for E. granulosus. Adding these positive samples to those identified by the copro PCR did not significantly improve the overall sensitivity (p = 0.074). Therefore, using both copro PCR and coproscopy in parallel may not be advantageous for taeniid detection and identification, at least until the egg PCR is further optimized and performs better. These results should be weighed against the different advantages that coproscopy based approach may offer.

Epidemiological studies of gastrointestinal parasites infecting dogs in Kwara Central, North Central, Nigeria

Dogs are the most cosmopolitan pets of humans and as such a means of transmitting zoonotic parasites to their owners. This study was designed to investigate the diversity, prevalence, pattern of infection, intensity of infections, and the risk factors associated with gastrointestinal parasites of dogs in Kwara Central, North Central, Nigeria. Three hundred and five clinically healthy dogs were sampled. Faecal samples were subjected to the direct smear, simple faecal centrifugation flotation, formol-ether concentration, and the Modified Ziehl-Neelsen staining techniques. Oocysts/eggs per gram of faeces were counted using the modified McMaster technique. Data were analysed using univariate logistic regression, multivariate logistic regression, and the one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). A p -value of < 0.05 was considered significant for all analyses. One hundred and sixty-six dogs were positive for at least one species of gastrointestinal parasite, representing 54.43% (95% CI: 44.81 – 59.96) of the sampled population. The study identified Cystoisospora species (15.41%), Cryptosporidium species (25.25%), Ancylostoma species (25.25%), Toxocara canis (19.02%), Strongyloides stercoralis (7.54%), Uncinaria stenocephala (6.89%), and Dipylidium caninum (2.30%) as the gastrointestinal parasites infecting dogs in the study area. Coinfection with more than one species of gastrointestinal parasites was a common finding in dogs. The intensity of Cystoisospora spp. among infected dogs ranged between 40 and 980 oocysts per gram of faeces, while that of helminth parasites was 40 – 1560 eggs per gram of faeces. Age, sex, breeds, body condition score, presence of ticks on dogs, the purpose of keeping dog(s), types of housing, types of feed consumed, vaccination status, and treatment with antiparasitics were predators associated with the prevalence and intensity of gastrointestinal parasites infections. Due to the zoonotic nature of most of the encountered gastrointestinal parasites, there is need for regular antiparasitic treatment, proper dog management, and adequate personal hygiene to prevent zoonosis.

Effect of a Commercially Available Electrolyte Solution on Acute, Non-Specific Diarrhea in Dogs

Purpose: To determine if a commercially available electrolyte solution is safe and lessens the duration and severity of diarrhea in shelter dogs in stressful situations. Methods: In Experiment 1, six healthy beagles were administered the protocol-approved dose of the electrolyte solution to evaluate clinical, biochemical, or fecal microbiome changes. In Experiment 2, 22 dogs with small or large bowel diarrhea were randomized into one of three groups: the electrolyte solution and a prescription veterinary diet, a placebo and a prescription veterinary diet, or the electrolyte solution and a standard diet. A fecal score was assigned by trained, masked observers through Day 5 using the Purina 7-point fecal scoring system. All dogs were screened for enteric parasites by fecal flotation and the use of a fluorescence antibody assay for Giardia spp. cysts and Cryptosporidium spp. oocysts and all dogs that were parasitized were administered fenbendazole for five days. Results: In Experiment 1, all dogs tolerated the electrolyte solution with no vomiting or diarrhea noted and there was no evidence of negative effects on the gastrointestinal microbiome. In Experiment 2, 16 of the 22 dogs enrolled in the study had a normal stool the day after the first dose of the electrolyte solution, prescription diet, or placebo. All six dogs with the first day of normal stool detected after Day 1 were parasitized. When the days to normalcy were compared, the parasitized dogs had a significantly slower resolution (P = 0.018) than dogs with no parasites regardless of the other treatment group. Conclusions and Relevance: The results of the study suggest that this electrolyte solution is safe for use in dogs and that adding the electrolyte solution to a standard diet is equivalent to using a therapeutic diet alone or the electrolyte solution combined with a therapeutic diet.

Epidemiological factors associated with helminths and coccidia in zebu calves under pastoralism in Isiolo County Kenya

In Kenya, helminthosis and coccidia infections in cattle, are the second highest cause of death in zebu calves up to 12 months old, estimated at 12% mortality rate. The aim of our study was to investigate the factors associated with helminth and coccidia infection among zebu beef calves in Isiolo County Kenya. A cross-sectional study was conducted between November and December on 2020 in Isiolo North and South Constituencies. Garbatulla and Burat wards in Isiolo North and Kinna in Isiolo South were purposively selected due to high number of large cattle herds compared to other areas. A total of 411 calves from 34 herds aged between 3 weeks and 12 months were randomly selected for the study. Calf level and management and environmental data were collected through semi-structured questionnaires, observations and physically. Faecal samples were obtained from the rectum or immediately after defaecation for laboratory analysis located in Kinna Ward in Isiolo South Constituency. In the laboratory, faecal egg counts were estimated using the McMaster faecal floatation technique. Descriptive, univariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were carried out with outcome as parasites eggs or oocysts per gram of faecal sample. The factors associated with coccidia infections in the final multivariable logistic regression analysis for coccidia were: Location (Constituencies), availability of drinking water, lush pasture, floor condition, availability of extension services and herd size. In the multivariable logistic regression final model for strongyle infection, age of the calf, herd size, co-infestation with other parasites, and availability of extension services were significant. The results of this study indicated that prevalence of helminth and coccidia infections in calves is high and the calf, environmental and management factors were associated with such infections.

The occurrence of helminths and coccidia in zebu calves among pastoralists in Isiolo County Kenya

In Kenya, helminthosis and coccidiosis in cattle, is reported to be the second highest cause of death in zebu calves up to 12 months old, estimated at 12% mortality rate. The aim of our study was to investigate the prevalence of gastrointestinal helminth and coccidia infections among zebu calves in Isiolo County in Kenya. A cross-sectional study was conducted in between November and December, 2020 in Isiolo North and South Constituencies. Garbatulla and Burat Wards in Isiolo North and Kinna Ward in Isiolo South were purposively selected due to high number of large cattle herds compared to other areas. A total of 411 calves from 34 cattle herds aged between 3 weeks and 12 months were randomly selected for the study. Faecal samples were obtained from the rectum or immediately after defaecation for laboratory analysis, in a veterinary laboratory located in Kinna Ward in Isiolo south Constituency that is virtually meant for research. Faecal egg counts and coccidian oocyst were identified and estimated using the McMaster faecal floatation technique. The prevalence was determined by dividing positive number by the total number tested and the converted to percentage form. The overall prevalence of helminth and coccidia infections was estimated at 66.9% (275/411). Concurrent helminth and coccidia prevalence were slightly low, estimated at 16.5% (68/411). Coccidia infection was the most prevalent type of infection estimated at 45.7% (188/411) while the prevalence of helminths was 38.4% (158/411). Strongyle infection was predominant among other helminths detected with a prevalence of 29.4% (121/411) followed by Strongyloides 6.5% (27/411), Monezia 2.7% (4/411), Toxocara 1% (4/411) and Trichuris 0.2% (1/411). The results of this study indicated that prevalence of helminth and coccidia infections in calves is high dominated by strongyles and coccidia.

Increased prevalence of canine echinococcosis a decade after the discontinuation of a governmental deworming program in Tierra del Fuego, Southern Chile.

Hydatid disease is a neglected zoonotic parasitic disease caused by cysts of the tapeworm Echinococcus granulosus. Canids, especially domestic dogs, are definitive hosts of the parasite and are the most pragmatic targets for control programs. A governmental dog deworming campaign was established in 1979 to control hydatidosis in southern Chile, which succeeded in reducing the prevalence of canine echinococcosis in Tierra del Fuego province from 68.4% (in 1978) to 1.2% (in 2002). In 2004, however, the program was dismantled to reduce costs, and since then, no follow-up echinococcosis monitoring has been conducted. We surveyed 356 domestic dogs and interviewed owners or workers at 45 ranches in Chilean Tierra del Fuego during the summer of 2015-2016. Faecal flotation was employed to detect Taeniidae eggs, and PCR was used to test faecal samples for Echinococcus granulosus. Taeniidae eggs and Echinococcus sp. DNA were detected in the faeces of 45.4% (147/324) and 6.9% (23/331) of dogs, respectively. Infrequent dog deworming and the presence of culpeo foxes (Lycalopex culpaeus) were significant predictors of the prevalence of Echinococcus sp. DNA and Taeniidae eggs. Furthermore, the presence of introduced chilla foxes (Lycalopex griseus), the municipality, and several operational characteristics of ranches (number of sheep, frequency of sheep slaughter, number of dogs, frequency of removal of dog faeces, feeding of dogs with sheep viscera) were also predictive of the prevalence of Taeniidae eggs. Our findings reveal an ongoing risk of echinococcosis with pathogen maintenance in ranch dogs in Chilean Tierra del Fuego, and in the absence of adequate control programmes, there is a tangible risk of re-emergence of hydatid disease as a public health concern.