Overall Prevalence Of Gastrointestinal Parasites Research Articles

The prevalence of intestinal parasites in dogs from shelters in Constanța County-Romania

This study was designed to evaluate the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in shelter dogs from Constanța, a southeastern county from Romania. In order to assess, in 2022 and 2023, individual and pooled fecal samples, were collected from 611 dogs from 9 shelters. Fecal samples were examined using standard flotation and sedimentation methods. The overall prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites was 74.63%. Eggs of hookworms (Ancylostoma sp. An Uncinaria sp.) were the most frequently detected (55.97%), followed by Cystoisospora sp. (31.91%), Trichuris vulpis (27.33%), Toxocara canis (21.27%), %), Capillaria sp. (2.78%) and Toxascaris leonina (1.96%). Cases of single infestation were found in 217 (35.51%) of the tested dogs. Mixed infestations with two or more species of parasites were observed in 239 samples, representing 39.11% of the total samples analyzed. These results will be useful for establishing health care programs in dog shelters and for implementing effective strategies in controlling the intestinal parasites, in order to restrain the spread of zoonotic parasites and to raise awareness of their impact on public health.

Porcine parasitic zoonosis in the Ashanti region of Ghana

Pigs are coprophagous omnivores that feed on a wide range of food, thus making them susceptible to parasitic infections. This study aimed to examine the prevalence and diversity of gastrointestinal parasitic infections among pigs in the Ashanti Region of Ghana, kept under different management systems. A total of 400 fresh fecal samples from pigs of varying ages and sex were collected and analyzed using standard coproscopical techniques. Questionnaire interviews were used to assess management practices on the pig farms. The associations between age, breed, sex, and management systems and the prevalence of parasites were determined. The overall prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in pigs was 88.75%, with multiple infections being more common than single infections (p < 0.05). Overall, thirteen (13) genera of protozoa and helminths were recovered from the pigs, including parasites of zoonotic importance to man. Eimeria spp. had the highest prevalence (64.5%), while the least prevalence (0.25%) was recorded for Balantidium coli and Isospora spp. Age, breed, sex, and type of management systems were not significantly associated with infections in pigs. The lack of treatment of pigs creates ideal conditions for the spread of zoonotic infections in the region.

Prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in endangered captive Asian Elephants (Elephas maximus) of Chitwan National Park in Nepal

In order to ascertain the comprehensive prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites among captive Asian elephants in Chitwan National Park, a cross-sectional investigation was conducted. A total of 103 samples was purposefully collected. Demographic details encompassing age and gender, along with epidemiological information concerning deworming status, timing intervals, and nutritional condition for both government-owned and privately-owned elephants, were procured through a structured questionnaire survey. The process involved microscopic identification and quantification of gastrointestinal parasites through sedimentation, centrifugal floatation, and MacMaster Egg Per Gram (EPG) count methods. The resultant data indicated an overall prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites at 47.57% (49 out of 103 samples). The dominant class of parasites observed was Nematodes (n=30, 61.22%), followed by Trematodes (n=14, 28.57%) and Cestodes (n=5, 10.20%). Six distinct parasite genera were identified with positive results: Strongylus (26.53%), Trichostrongylus (24.48%), Fasciola (16.35%), Paramphistomum (12.24%), Anoplocephala (10.20%), and Ascaris (10.20%). Notably, the prevalence was markedly higher in females (39.80%) in comparison to males (7.76%), with the disparity being statistically significant (p>0.05). Additionally, a noteworthy correlation was observed between parasite prevalence, age groups, and deworming history, with statistical significance (p<0.05). The Egg Per Gram (EPG) count analysis demonstrated that the majority (87.75%) of the positively identified samples exhibited mild infection (100-500 eggs), while a relatively low percentage (6.12%) displayed heavy infection (1000-1500 eggs). The mean EPG was calculated as (248.39 ± 54.25). Consequently, the heightened prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in captive elephants within Chitwan National Park underscores the necessity for targeted interventions to mitigate the risk of parasitic infestations.

Prevalence and determinants of gastrointestinal parasites of pigs in Roma, Lesotho

The small-scale pig keeping in Lesotho has emerged as one of the common ways of subsistence for the vast majority of Basotho. Infection by gastrointestinal parasites is a common and persistent health threat that limits the extent to which the pig industry can potentially perform. Knowledge about the risk factors influencing parasitic infection is essential in order to make relevant interventions aimed at mitigating the occurrence and spread of parasites. A cross-sectional study was undertaken on 90 healthy pigs to determine the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites. The floatation technique was utilized for laboratory analysis, and parasite eggs were identified based on the morphology. SPSS version 20.00 was used for analysis, from which Binary logistic regression was utilized. The overall prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites was 69%, the predominant specie was nematodes with 63% and the least was recorded for coccidian with 28%. Sows (79.6%, 32.7%) were more highly parasitized than boars (43.9%, 22.0%) in terms of nematodes and coccidian, respectively. Higher parasitic prevalence was recorded in young (76.5%, 35.3%) pigs than in older (46.2%, 17.9%) pigs both for nematodes and coccidian, respectively. It is therefore concluded that sex and age are the major determinants of parasitic infection in pigs.

Prevalence of Ecto and Gastrointestinal Parasites of <i>Rattus rattus</i> in Mazandaran Province, North of Iran

Rodents act as reservoir hosts and are an important potential source for many zoonotic pathogens such as parasites, which pose a public health risk to humans. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate the prevalence of parasites among rodents. A total of 118 Rattus rattus were captured in Mazandaran province, north of Iran, using snap live traps. Various samples were collected from feces and each rat was combed with a fine-tooth comb to extricate any ectoparasite. Fecal specimens were examined by direct wet mounting, formalin-ether concentration, modified acid-fast, and trichrome staining methods. The overall prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in the examined rats was 75.4%. Cryptosporidium spp. (30.5%) were the most prevalent protozoan, followed by Giardia spp. (20.3%), Entamoeba muris (13.5%), Trichomonas muris (10.1%), and Spironucleus muris (3.3%). Regarding helminths' eggs, Syphacia obvelata (24.5%), Hymenolepis diminuta (10.1%), and Trichuris muris (9.3%) had the highest prevalence, respectively. Furthermore, 3060 ectoparasites collected from 102 rodents were infested with lice (40% Polyplax spp.), mites (33.3%), and flea (16.1% Xenopsylla cheopis and 10.6% Xenopsylla astia). According to the results of this study, the prevalence of ecto and gastrointestinal parasites in the collected rats in the area being studied was remarkably high. Additionally, Rattus rattus can be considered a potential risk to human health.

The first study on the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in owned and sheltered cats in Yangon, Myanmar.

People who used to rear companion animals are healthier than others who do not. Gastrointestinal (GI) helminths are common in cats and serve as reservoirs for zoonotic diseases. However, the prevalence of GI parasites in cats in Myanmar has never been reported. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of GI parasites in cats in Myanmar and to identify the potential risk factors associated with GI parasites. A total of 230 fecal samples were collected from seven veterinary clinics and two shelters within the Yangon region from January to May 2022. Sampled cats were classified according to age, gender, and the deworming and rearing practices. Fecal samples were analyzed by fecal wet mount, ethyl acetate centrifugal sedimentation, and zinc sulfate centrifugal flotation techniques. Descriptive data were described, and Pearson's χ2 test was used to identify associated risk factors, such as age, gender, and the deworming and rearing practices. The overall prevalence of GI parasites was 79.56%, and 57.82% of cats were infected with a diagnostic stage of more than one parasite species. Seven GI parasites were detected, including Ancylostoma spp. (55.65%), Toxocara spp. (46.08%), Trichuris spp. (20.86%), Platynosomum spp. (11.73%), Dipylidium caninum (7.39%), Taenia spp. (4.34%), and Cystoisospora spp. (32.17%). Based on statistical analysis, the deworming and rearing practices were significantly associated (p < 0.05) with GI parasitic infections. This study is the first to reveal the prevalence of GI parasites that could assist the need for effective control measures for zoonotic hookworm and roundworm infections in cats. Even with simple microscopic examination, the remarkably high prevalence of GI parasitic infections warrants regular deworming practice. Further molecular studies should also be performed to understand their genetic diversity.

Gastrointestinal parasites of wild carnivores from conservation institutions in the Cerrado of Goiás, Brazil.

Increased interaction between wild and urban environments owing to human population growth, increased anthropization of biomes, and habitat loss for wild animals increases the spread of infectious and parasitic agents. The present study reports on the occurrence of gastrointestinal parasites in carnivorous mammals at two conservation institutions in the state of Goiás, Brazil. Fecal samples from 39 adult carnivores were collected after spontaneous defecation and analyzed by flotation and sedimentation. The structure and management data of each institution were recorded. Parasitism prevalence, binomial confidence intervals (CI) at 95%, variables associated with the presence of contact animals, size of the enclosure and type of food were recorded. The overall prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in the samples analyzed was 71.8% (CI 55.1-83.0; 28/39). Ancylostomatidae, Toxocara spp., Toxascaris leonina, Strongyloides spp., Calodium hepaticum, and Trematoda eggs, and Cystoisospora spp. oocysts were detected. Environmental conditions were not correlated with parasitism prevalence; however, the parasites found could be managed, considering their biology, such as controlling synanthropic and domestic animals in captivity, feeding with healthy feed.

Diversity and prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites of Black Bengal goats in Natore, Bangladesh.

The objective of this work was to estimate the diversity of gastrointestinal (GI) parasite species, their prevalence, and risk factors in Black Bengal goats (BBGs) of Natore, Bangladesh. Fecal samples from randomly selected 260 BBGs were processed through Stoll's ova counting method, floatation, and simple sedimentation method. Microscopy-based identification of parasitic eggs, cysts, or oocysts was made. A semi-structured questionnaire-based data on host and management practices were collected from the owner. Data analysis was done using Statistical Package for Social Sciences. The overall prevalence of GI parasites in BBGs was 65.4%, with an individual prevalence of 8.5% for Fasciola gigantica, 21.5% for Paramphistomum spp., 20% for Haemonchus spp., 34.2% for Strongyloides spp., 8.5% for Trichuris spp., and 9.2% for Eimeria spp. No significant effect of host age, gender, body condition, animal rearing system, or housing floor type was observed on parasitism. Animals of young age, female, poorly body-conditioned, living in a free-range system, and housed on a muddy floor had a relatively higher susceptibility to infection. Deworming had a significant impact on reducing the frequency of caprine GI parasitism. Despite the significant effect of anthelmintic, the elevated prevalence of GI parasites in BBGs suggests a critical need for developing effective strategies to prevent caprine parasitoses.

Gastrointestinal parasites of horses and their socio-economic impact in Jos Plateau – Nigeria

There are several socio-economic constraints facing horses in Jos, Nigeria among which gastrointestinal parasites (GIPs) play important role in negatively impacting the health, productivity and well-being of horses and these greatly limits the efficiency and work potential of affected horses. The objectives of this study are to estimate the impact of GIP infection in Horses around Jos metropolis and to advise stakeholders appropriately. Faecal samples were collected from 108 horses comprising of 25 male horses and 83 female horses over a period of six months from February to July 2021 covering three months in the dry season and three months in the rainy season. The samples were analyzed for GIPs using standard flotation, sedimentation and McMaster faecal egg counting techniques. The overall prevalence of GIPs in this study was 82.41% out of which 51.85% were positive for single infection and 30.56% were positive for mixed infection. The GIPs found in this study were Strongylus spp., Strongyloides westeri, Trichonema spp., Eimeria leukarti, Anoplocephala spp., Fasciola gigantica, Parascaris equorum, Gastrodiscus aegypticus, Triodontophorus spp., Oxyuris equi, Gasterophilus intestinalis and Dictyocaulus arnfieldi. The prevalence for EPG was zero (3.70%), low (46.30%), medium (24.07%) and high (9.26%). The prevalence of GIPs was found higher in males as compared to females; young ones as compared to adults and rainy season compared to dry season. The prevalence of GIPs was found higher in animals with poor body condition score (84.62%) followed by moderate (83.78%), ideal (76.92%) and fat (66.67%). Several factors such as poor nutrition, management practices, disease status and other physiologic factors may affect the immune status of horses making it easier for them to succumb to gastrointestinal parasitic infection. It is therefore recommended that appropriate, economic and efficient control measures be employed to reduce parasitism in all age groups, sex and body conditions and in all seasons of the year consequently improving the health of horses in Jos - Nigeria.

Prevalence and diversity of gastrointestinal parasites in free-ranging rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta) in different land gradients of Bangladesh.

Rhesus macaques are considered an important reservoir of different gastrointestinal (GI) zoonotic parasites affecting livestock and humans. Loads of GI parasites in the free-ranging rhesus macaques living in close proximity to communities in Bangladesh are still unknown. To estimate the prevalence and diversity of zoonotic GI parasites in rhesus macaques of Bangladesh, a total of 182 freshly voided fecal samples were collected from macaques living in rural (N = 67), peri-urban (N = 57), urban (N = 28), and Safari park (N = 30) between October 2015 and December 2016. All samples were tested by direct smear, sedimentation, flotation, and the McMaster techniques. A total of fourteen different taxa of GI parasites were detected, revealing an overall prevalence of 54.4% (n = 99; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 46.9-61.8). The prevalence of GI parasites was found to be significantly correlated with the mean parasitic taxa per individual in a group (r = 0.90; p = 0.002). The multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that the overall prevalence of GI parasites in macaques was significantly higher in those inhabiting rural areas (62.69%; odds ratio [OR]: 7.22; p = 0.001) and in macaques with interactions with other animals (60.98%; OR: 5.49; p = 0.005). Our results also indicated that the prevalence of Strongyloides spp. and Balantidium coli infections varied significantly between land gradients. Our results also indicate that macaques frequently visit human settlements for food and are found interacting with domestic animals. In conclusion, the high prevalence of zoonotic GI parasite infection in rhesus macaques found in our study may pose a significant public health risk to communities, particularly in rural areas of Bangladesh. Health promotion to at-risk communities focusing on limiting contact with rhesus macaques is necessary to mitigate potential zoonotic transmission.

Prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in equines of Mustang District, Nepal

Abstract. Devkota RP, Subedi JR, Wagley K. 2021. Prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in equines of Mustang District, Nepal. Biodiversitas 22: 3958-3963. The study was conducted from March 2018 to November 2018 in four villages of Mustang district to find out the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in equines (horses and mules). Fecal samples collected from 175 randomly selected equines (105 from horses and 70 from mules) were preserved in 2.5% potassium dichromate and microscopically examined using concentration techniques to detect ova, larvae, and oocysts of parasites. The overall prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites was found to be 84.57% with an incidence rate of 81.90% and 88.57% in horses and mules respectively. The prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites between horses and mules did not vary significantly (p&gt;0.05). Also no significant association (p&gt;0.05) between the prevalence rate of parasites and study areas was observed. Among identified parasites in horses, Strongyles showed the highest prevalence (68.57%) followed by Strongyloides spp. (23.80%), and Parascaris equorum (14.28%) and in mules Strongyles showed the highest prevalence (80.0%) followed by Parascaris equorum (35.71%), Strongyloides spp. (28.57%), and Dictyocaulus spp. (5.71%). Prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites showed no significant variation (p&gt;0.05) with respect to age and feeding status. However, the prevalence rate significantly varied (p&lt;0.05) with respect to parameters like infection status (single and mixed), housing condition and health status. The present study revealed a higher prevalence rate of gastrointestinal parasites due to poor husbandry practices and lack of adequate veterinary services. Therefore, improvement in housing and feeding system, awareness regarding effective regular deworming, and establishment of veterinary hospitals in the study areas were recommended.

English

Trace elements play an important role to boost the immunity and fight against parasitic infections. Concentration of trace elements like Copper (Cu), Cobalt (Co), Manganese (Mn) and Zinc (Zn) were determined in soil, forages and sera of sheep. An associative analysis was also made between the burden of Gastrointestinal (GI) parasites and concentrations of trace elements of sheep sera. For this, 384 faecal and blood samples of sheep, an appropriate number of forages and soil samples were collected. The faecal samples were subjected to determine the species and burden of GI parasites. The sera, plant and soil samples were subjected to pre-treatment (digestion) required for the determination of trace elements. The overall prevalence of GI parasites was 32.81% and the most prevalent species were Haemonchus (H.) contortus followed in order by Eimeria spp., Strongyloides spp., Trichostrongylus spp. and Fasciola spp. Variables like age, sex, breed and tehsils of Silakot district showed an insignificant association with GI parasitic burden. Trace elements concentration of forages showed a significant (P &lt; 0.05) variation while trace elements concentration of soil showed an insignificant (P &gt; 0.05) variation. In serum, Zn concentration showed significant (P &lt; 0.05) results among all the tehsils of study district. Mean concentrations of Mn and Cu in serum were found inversely proportional to the mean egg count per gram of sheep faeces in tehsil Pasroor of the Sialkot district. Forages containing high concentrations of Mn and Cu can be used effectively against GI parasites. © 2021 Friends Science Publishers

Epidemiology and spatio-temporal distribution of gastrointestinal parasites infection and accuracy of FAMACHA test in sheep in traditional farming systems in Burkina Faso.

Blood and faecal samples from 2086 Sahelian and Djallonke sheep have been collected to assess the epidemiology and spatio-temporal distribution of gastrointestinal parasites. A survey with a questionnaire allowed collecting data on individual animal and farms. Faecal samples were analysed using the McMaster technique, while anaemia was assessed using FAMACHA score test and packed cell volume. The overall prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites was 91%, and strongyles (70.7%), Eimeria sp. (60.4%), Moniezia sp. (5.7%), Stronyloides sp. (0.9%) were identified. There was no significant association between the region and strongyles infection (P ˃ 0.05). Animals sampled during the rainy season (n = 565; P = 82.2%, mean EPG = 154.8 ± 12.02) were mostly and heavily infected than those from the hot dry (n = 518; P = 74.2%; mean EPG = 97.7 ± 17.4) and the cold dry season (n = 392; P = 55.5%; mean EPG = 24.5 ± 19.5) (P ˂ 0.05). Females (n = 1027; P = 72.1%; mean EPG = 77.6 ± 17) were most infected than males (n = 448; P = 67.7%; mean EPG = 61.6 ± 19.5) (P ˂ 0.05). Animals that were treated, at most 3 months before sampling (n = 166; P = 61.5%; mean EPG = 41.7 ± 21.4), were less infected than those, which received this treatment after three months before sampling (n = 199; P = 74.8%; mean EPG = 89.1 ± 15.8) (P ˂ 0.05). Data from blood samples indicate that 6.5% of sheep was anaemic (PCV ≤ 19%), while 59.7% was noted anaemic regarding FAMACHA scores. PCV values varied significantly for FAMACHA scores, and the highest mean value was noted for score 1 (27.6) (P ˂ 0.05). The Cohen's kappa score between FAMACHA and PCV was 0.02. These findings suggest that strongyles infections are significantly associated with season, and heavier infections were noted during rainy season.

The risk of helminth infections at Endangered Primate Rescue Center, Cuc Phuong National Park Vietnam

To clarify the transmission route of parasitic infections in primates at Endangered Primate Rescue Center, Cuc Phuong National Park, we investigated the prevalence of intestinal helminths in leaf and dog fecal samples collected in the surrounding areas of the center. By morphological analysis, only Ancylostoma spp. and Isospora spp. were detected in leaf samples, with the infection rate of 7.07% and 1.01% respectively. In addition, survey on 156 dog feces samples showed that the overall prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites was quite high (73.55%). Ancylostoma spp has the highest prevalence (68.39%), followed by Toxocara spp. (25.81%), Trichuris spp. (10.97%), Isospora spp. (7.1%) and Taenia spp (3.87%).

Prevalence of Canine Intestinal Parasites in Duhok Province, Kurdistan Region, Iraq

Intestinal parasites in canine can cause malnutrition, weight loss, vomiting, diarrhea, and anemia. Several species of internal parasites that exist in dogs’ intestine may lead to zoonotic diseases. In this study, canine fecal samples (n꞊ 48) were collected from public spaces and privet properties in Duhok province to determine the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites, and to identify the predominant parasitic species and to evaluate the potential risk factors among the animals. All samples were examined for intestinal helminthes and protozoa by direct microscopy, flotation and sedimentation methods. The overall prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites was (54.16%), 52% in males and 56.52% in females. The study revealed the presence of two species of parasites detected included Toxocara canis (68%) and Echinococcus granulosis (32%). Furthermore canine breed, age, sex and type of food showed an association with varying degrees with prevalence of canine intestinal parasites.

Assessment of risk factors associated with prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in poultry of central plain zone of Punjab, India.

Background and Aim:Parasitic diseases are an important hurdle to the economy for the developing poultry industry due to their deleterious effects resulting into malnutrition, diminished feed conversion ratio, weight loss, decreased egg production, and mortality in young birds. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence and associated risk factors of gastrointestinal (GIT) parasites in poultry farms of central plain zone of Punjab.Materials and Methods:A total of 490 pooled droppings and 351 intact intestines of poultry from slaughterhouses from seven districts of central plain zone of Punjab state, India, were collected and analyzed from September 2016 to May 2018 by qualitative and quantitative techniques.Results:An overall prevalence of GIT parasites was 38.36% with significantly (p<0.01) highest (74.1%) in Ludhiana and lowest (12.0%) in Shri Fatehgarh Sahib. The most predominant (86.2%) infection was coccidia. The birds reared under a deep litter system were having a higher (p<0.01) fecal load of helminthic eggs and coccidian oocysts (54.4%) compared to the cage system (37.5%). Infection rate was apparently more (40%) in broilers than layers (35.7%). Prevalence of GIT parasites was higher (p<0.01) in monsoon season (58.5%) and lower in summer season (24.48%). The broilers in the age group of 0-2 weeks possessed a significant higher (p<0.05) level of GIT parasitic infection (57.5%), while in case of layers, a higher infection rate (46.66%) was observed in birds between 9 and 18 weeks of age as compared in other groups. Higher (p<0.05) infection rate of GIT parasites was seen in crossbred (45.55%) birds as compared to desi birds (20.00%).Conclusion:The study showed that coccidiosis was the predominant infection among all GIT parasites based on fecal and intestinal tract content analysis. The risk factors associated with the prevalence of GIT parasitic infections were geographical location, deep litter system, broilers, age, crossbred breeds, and monsoon season.

Gastro-intestinal parasites in two subspecies of toque macaque (Macaca sinica) in Sri Lanka and their zoonotic potential.

Gastro-intestinal (GI) parasites of primates have a greater potential of becoming zoonotic. This potential may vary in different primates based on multiple factors such as proximity to human settlements and the climate of their habitat. We examined the GI parasites in two subspecies of toque macaque: Macaca sinica sinica (confined to the dry zone) and Macaca sinica aurifrons (confined to the wet zone) of Sri Lanka. Fresh faecal samples were collected and analysed following a modified Sheather's sucrose floatation method. A total of 90.8% (89/98) macaques were infected with one or more parasite species. There was no difference in the overall prevalence of GI parasites between the two subspecies, M. s. aurifrons (95.9%) and M. s. sinica (85.7%; χ2;χ=3.059, p=0.080). Sixteen parasite species were recorded including, 15 species in the M. s. sinica and 12 species in the M. s. aurifrons. Among the helminths identified, Anatrichosoma sp., Ancylostoma spp., Capillaria spp., Oesophagostomum /Bunostomum spp. and Physaloptera spp. are known to be zoonotic while Ascaris spp., Enterobius sp., Strongyloides spp. and Trichuris spp. have both zoonotic and anthroponotic potential. Among the protozoans, Balantidium coli and Buxtonella sp. are known to be zoonotic, while Entamoeba spp. and Cryptosporidium spp. have both anthroponotic and zoonotic potential. This study provides the first record of Anatrichosoma sp. and Buxtonella sp. in Sri Lanka and the first record of Cryptosporidium spp. in M. s. aurifrons. The molecular data allowed further identification and differentiation of Entamoeba nuttalli and E. coli that are known to be zoonotic and anthroponotic, respectively. The two subspecies of macaques have close interactions with humans; hence, in-depth epidemiological studies are required to understand the potential public-health risks to humans and conservation implications for macaque populations.

Prevalence of gastro-intestinal parasitic infections of cats and efficacy of antiparasitics against these infections in Mymensingh sadar, Bangladesh

Background: Gastro-intestinal parasitic infections in cats is a major concern for public health as they have zoonotic importance. The present research was conducted to determine the prevalence of gastro-intestinal parasitic infection in cats in different areas of Mymensingh Sadar between December, 2018 to May, 2019. Methods: The fecal samples were examined by simple sedimentation and stoll’s ova counting method for detection of eggs/cysts/oocysts of parasites. The efficacy of antiparasitics against the parasitic infections in cats was evaluated. Results: The overall prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites was 62.9% (39/62) and the mixed parasitic infection was 20.9% (13/62). The prevalence of Toxocara cati and Ancylostoma tubaeforme infections were 17.7% and 6.5%, respectively. The prevalence of Taenia pisiformis infection was 3.22%. However, the prevalence of Isospora felis, Toxoplasma gondii and Balantidium coli infections were 4.8%, 3.2% and 6.5%. The prevalence of infection was significantly (P&lt;0.008) higher in kitten than that in adult cat. The efficacy of albendazole, fenbendazole against single helminth infection was 100%. However, the efficacy of the drug was reduced against mixed helminth infection. The efficacy of metronidazole, pyrimithamine plus sulfadoxine was 100% against single protozoa infection but the efficacy of the drug was reduced against mixed protozoal infection. Conclusions: Kittens should be dewormed with effective anthelmintics as they are more vulnerable to parasitic diseases. The T. cati, A. tubaeforme, T. gondii prevalent in cats are zoonotic and owners awareness need to be increased to prevent human infections.

Prevalence and Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Parasites in Cattle in Different Zones of Tehsil Chakwal, Punjab, Pakistan

The study was conducted from March 2015 to February 2016 in different zones of Tehsil Chakwal in different breeds of cattle to detect the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites. A total of the 1039 faecal samples were randomly collected from cattle in the study area and standard laboratory procedures were followed to determine the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites. The study revealed that the overall prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites of cattle was 58.13% with maximum prevalence for trematodes (21.56%) following 18.48% for nematodes and 18.09% for cestodes. Highest prevalence was observed during the months of July and August. Exotic breeds were affected more than local breeds by the helminthes. Prevalence was higher in case of young and male animals as compared to adult and female animals respectively. Higher prevalence rates in the study showed the neglect of better management practices targeted at control of gastrointestinal parasites. It was concluded that age, gender, breed and season are the important factors which influence the epidemiology of gastrointestinal parasites.

Prevalence and fecal egg load of gastrointestinal parasites of Angora goats in four agro-ecological zones in Lesotho.

Background and Aim:Goats are reared for their meat, mohair and other socio-cultural needs in Lesotho. Helminth infections are some of the major setbacks in the goat production industry due to their negative impact on animals’ health, resulting in significant losses on meat and mohair production and death. A cross-sectional study was conducted to determine the prevalence, fecal egg infestation, and morphological identification of gastrointestinal parasites in goats.Materials and Methods:Fecal samples were collected from 765 goats and subjected to McMaster egg counting techniques using the flotation method. Statistical analyses were performed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS v.26.0).Results:The overall prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites was 94.7%, and the identified gastrointestinal parasites were nematodes (64.7%), coccidia (25.8%), and cestodes (4.2%). Haemonchus contortus was identified as the prevalent gastrointestinal nematode species found in goats. The prevalence and fecal egg count of gastrointestinal parasites were significantly higher (p<0.05) in goats located in the highlands and Senqu River Valley, while goats in the lowlands demonstrated a significantly (p<0.05) higher prevalence of H. contortus. Immature goats and kids were more significantly (p<0.05) prone to gastrointestinal parasites.Conclusion:The nematodes and coccidia infestations were prevalent in goats located in the highlands and foothills, respectively, whereas nematode and coccidia fecal egg loads were higher in goats located in the foothills and Senqu River Valley, respectively.