Prevalence Of Gastrointestinal Parasites Research Articles

Prevalence of Gastro-intestinal Parasites with Zoonotic Potential in Rodents Trapped from the Ngorongoro District, Arusha, Tanzania

Prevalence of Gastro-intestinal Parasites with Zoonotic Potential in Rodents Trapped from the Ngorongoro District, Arusha, Tanzania

Prevalence of gastrointestinal and blood parasites in horses of Nakhon Si Thammarat province, Thailand

Background and Aim: The global prevalence of gastrointestinal (GI) and blood parasite infections in horses is a significant concern due to their substantial impact on morbidity, mortality, and economic losses in the horse industry. In Thailand, limited research has been conducted on these parasites in horse populations, and data from southern Thailand are lacking. Consequently, this study aimed to estimate the prevalence of GI and blood parasites in horses in Nakhon Si Thammarat province, Thailand. Materials and Methods: In total, 79 fecal and blood samples were collected from horses across 11 farms in Nakhon Si Thammarat province. The fecal examination was conducted using simple flotation, formalin-ethyl acetate sedimentation, and a modified McMaster technique. Conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to identify blood and strongyle parasites. The influence of sex, age, and body condition score on the prevalence of GI parasites was also analyzed. Results: Six GI parasites were detected: four nematodes (Oxyuris equi, Parascaris equorum, strongyles, and Strongyloides westeri), one trematode (Gastrodiscus aegyptiacus), and one protozoan (Eimeria leuckarti). The overall prevalence of GI parasites was 74.7%, with single strongyle infections accounting for the highest proportion at 50.6%, followed by co-infections of strongyles and G. aegyptiacus at 10.1%. All 11 pooled strongyle samples were positive for cyathostomins and Strongylus vulgaris using conventional PCR with specific primers. Sex was significantly associated with the overall prevalence of GI parasites, whereas both sex and age were significant risk factors for infection by strongyle parasites. Theileria equi was the only blood parasite species detected in the surveyed horses, with a prevalence of 1.3% (n = 1/79). Conclusion: This study is the first to estimate the prevalence of GI and blood parasites in horses from Nakhon Si Thammarat province, Thailand. These findings highlight the importance of implementing control measures against GI parasites and are pivotal for developing effective infection prevention strategies. Keywords: blood parasites, gastrointestinal parasites, horses, southern Thailand.

Gastrointestinal parasites in free grazing goats from Ayacucho, Peru: prevalence and risk factors associated with infection in herds

This study assessed the prevalence and risk factors associated with gastrointestinal parasite infection in goats in Ayacucho, Peru. Fecal samples were collected from a total of 254 goats from four districts of Ayacucho: Ocaña (89), Colca (76), Pacaicasa (64), and Luricocha (25) during the dry season; recording the location, sex, and age of the animals. The fecal samples were analyzed using the flotation technique in salt and sugar solution, and modified McMaster egg counting techniques for eggs/oocysts (epg/opg) of gastrointestinal parasites. The associations between location, sex, and age with the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites were analyzed using the chi-square test. Fecal samples showed an overall parasite prevalence of 87.80%. The identified parasites were Eimeria spp. (86.22%), Strongyle type eggs (STE) (65.75%), Skrjabinema spp. (7.87%), Trichuris spp. (3.15%) and Moniezia spp. (3.15%). There was a significant association between the location and the presence of parasites (p < 0.05); where STE was more prevalent in the district of Colca (98.68%); Trichuris spp. in Pacaycasa (9.38%); Skrjabinema spp. (48.00%), Moniezia spp. (12.00%) and Eimeria spp. (100%) were more prevalent in Luricocha. Sex had a significant association with the prevalence of Eimeria spp., Skrjabinema spp. and Moniezia spp. (p < 0.05); while age had a significant association with parasitosis only for Trichuris spp. and Moniezia spp. (p < 0.05). The epg/opg values revealed a higher parasite burden in goats from Colca compared to the other locations (p < 0.05). There was also no statistical relationship between fecal egg/oocyst counts and sex or age, nevertheless, there were moderate and high parasitic burdens. The high prevalence of parasites such as nematodes, cestodes, and coccidia suggests the need to implement strategic control and prevention programs in free-grazing goats. Location and sex were the most relevant risk factors for parasitosis in Ayacucho, Peru.

Gastrointestinal parasite prevalence, diversity and association in free-ranging Chacma baboon troops in a semi-arid savanna ecosystem of Zimbabwe

Free-ranging Chacma baboon species are known to harbour a wide range of zoonotic parasites, and their frequent close interactions with humans pose a risk of transmission of zoonotic parasites between the two species. This research study focused on understanding parasite dynamics in free-ranging baboon populations that inhabit human-wildlife interface areas, a case of Gwanda State University's Epoch Mine campus in Filabusi at Insiza district. A descriptive and analytical cross-sectional design was used to investigate the prevalence, diversity and association of gastrointestinal parasites among three baboon troops found at the Epoch Mine campus. One hundred and twenty (120) fresh faecal samples were collected from the three troops between February and September 2023. The centrifugal floatation technique was used to process and analyse faecal samples, and parasite ova and cysts were identified using morphological features like shape and size. The prevalence of the parasite taxa and a chi-squared multiple comparison test was computed. Results showed significant differences among most parasite taxa except Coccidia spp and Entamoeba spp among the three troops. The Shannon–Wiener (H′) index was used to calculate diversity and graphs were utilized to present the association. The Kruskal-Wallis tests showed no significant difference in parasite diversity among the three troops. Although troop-parasite association showed different parasite species for each troop, helminths Strongylid spp. and Schistosoma spp. were highly common across all three troops. Troop 1 and 3 were associated with four parasite taxa, whereas Troop 2 had only three. The study reveals the presence of gastro-intestinal parasites of public health concern, as they are capable of causing diseases in humans and domestic animals. The study, therefore, underscores the importance of understanding parasite-host dynamics in mitigating zoonotic disease transmission and suggests the need to generate baseline data for mitigating zoonotic diseases and maintaining a healthy ecosystem.

Prevalence of Gastrointestinal Parasites in Pigs in Bali

This study aimed to identify gastrointestinal parasites in pigs in Bali. A total of 117 pig feces samples were collected in Buleleng Regency (n = 67) and Jembrana (n = 50). Samples were examined microscopically using native, sedimentation, and floating methods. The results reported the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites infecting pigs in Bali was 94.8% (111/117) infected with protozoa, namely Eimeria sp. (90.5%), Entamoeba sp. (26.4%), Isospora suis (6.8%), and Balantidium sp. (5.1%), while 99.1% (116/117) were infected with helminths, namely Trichuris suis (71.7%), Strongyloides sp. (64.9%), Ascaris suum (49.5%), Oesophagostomum sp. (6.1%), Macracanthorhyncus sp. (2.5%), and Hyostrongylus sp. (0.8%). Based on the tree regression analysis reported that the rearing system was related to the degree of gastrointestinal parasite infection in pigs in Bali.

Seasonal effects on the gastrointestinal parasites in horses at Port Harcourt Polo, Rivers State, Nigeria

The current study examined various gastrointestinal (GI) parasite species to which the horses at Polo Club, Port Harcourt were exposed during the rainy and dry seasons. Between September 2023 and February 2024, a total of 80 Polo horses were evaluated. During each season, forty horses of various sexes and breeds were examined. The animals were classified as young (˂4 years), adult (4 – 10 years), and old (˃10 years). Feacal samples were collected from each horse and soil samples were also collected from three different spots within the Polo Club. Floatation technique was used to ascertain the faecal and soil eggs of the identified parasite species. The results were presented using descriptive statistics. Chi-square was used to analyze the data and P ≤ 0.05 was considered to be significant. The result revealed a significantly (P ≤ 0.05) higher GI parasite prevalence during the rainy season compared with those recorded during the dry season. Seasonal results showed that Strongylus and Strongyloides species were highly prevalent. The results indicated that the horses had four (4) helminths parasites during the rainy season: Stronglyus spp. (90%), Strongyloides spp. (97.5%), Gastrodiscus spp. (25%), Trichonema spp. (25%), and one (1) intestinal protozoan parasite, Eimeria spp. (2.5%). The findings during the dry season showed that there were Strongylus spp (82.5%), Stongyloides spp (70%), Triodontophorus spp (5%), and Oxyuris spp (2.5%). The outcome showed that there was no significant (P &gt; 0.05) association between sex of the horses and prevalence of GI parasites while there was significant association between season, age, breed and prevalence across different season. In conclusion, these parasites are more common during the rainy season therefore efforts should be focused on effective management practices, early identification, and treatment with anthelminthic and anti-protozoan medications during this period.

Prevalence of Gastrointestinal Parasites of Poultry Chicken Slaughtered and Sold in Uyo Metropolis, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

Gastrointestinal parasites (GIP) are important biological enemies causing poor health in poultry, thereby causing significant reduction in harvest. This study was aimed to assess the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites of poultry chickens slaughtered in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. One hundred and fifty (150) intestinal contents of poultry chickens slaughtered were collected from poultry dressing units in market within Uyo metropolis and kept in polythene bags, and then transported to the Animal and Environmental Biology laboratory of the University of Uyo for analysis. The gizzard, small and large intestine and caeca were assessed for GIP. The method employed in this assessment was Direct Wet Mount following other standard methods. The parasites were analyses by microscopic examination of the fecal smears, thereafter identification of parasite. Five species were encountered in this study: Ascaris galli (32.76%) had the highest, followed by of Eimeria tenella (25.86%), Raillietina tetragona (16.39%) and Histomonas meleagridisis (16.39%). The least was recorded in Heterakis gallinarum (10.34%). Among the 67 (male) and 83 (female) samples, 34.38% and 65.62% respectively recorded positive. Ascaris galli, being the most prevalent was seen in 38 samples and Histomonas meleagridisis (the lowest) was seen in only 12 samples. &gt; 12 weeks age group recorded lowest prevalence (9.3%) while 8-12 weeks had highest (19.30%). This study reveals that 39.12% had single parasitic infection, while mixed had 60.94%. Based on these results, poultry in Uyo farms are affected with gastrointestinal parasitic infection. Therefore, it is recommended that farmer should improve upon their management skills and issues concerning hygiene.

The Prevalence of Infection with Gastrointestinal Helminths in Free-Range Poultry of Zabol, Iran.

As an ecological and ethical method employed for poultry farming, free-range chicken keeping is growing and is important in fostering rural farmers' livelihoods and community prosperity. This study aimed to determine the nature and prevalence of helminth infections in native poultry in Zabol, Iran. Between 2022 and 2023, 160 chickens were acquired and slaughtered ethically, and then their gastrointestinal tracts were taken and formalin preserved in Zabol, Iran. The parasites were isolated from gastrointestinal mucus in the laboratory and characterized using a microscope and specific methods such as Acetocarmine staining. Among 160 dissected birds, 92 (57.5%) were presented with gastrointestinal parasites, with 64 (40%) containing cestodes, 16 (10%) containing nematodes, and 12 (7.5%) infected by both. Observations were made of seven different species. Ascaridia galli (A. galli) (10%), Subulura brumpti (7.5%), and Heterakis gallinarum (3.12%) represent the three main nematode species. While Raillietina tetragona (R. tetragona) (33.12%) was the most prevalent cestode, R. echinobothrida (6.25%), R. magninumida (5%), and Cotugnia digonopora (3.12%) were less common. The study revealed that free-range chickens in the arid Zabol region had a high prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites. There is a strong correlation between chicken foraging behavior and exposure to contaminated soil, with certain nematodes and cestodes constituting the most prevalent, negatively affecting bird growth, productivity, and health. Therefore, improving poultry welfare by applying parasite control measures and implementing appropriate management strategies is essential.

Gastrointestinal parasitic load of sheep in selected abattoirs in Imo State

Gastrointestinal parasites constitute one of the major health challenges affecting the productivity of the animals. This study was aimed at determining the gastrointestinal parasitic load of sheep in selected abattoirs in Imo State. A total of 120 feacal samples of male and female sheep were collected. The samples were prepared using sedimentation and floatation techniques. 62.10% of gastrointestinal parasites were identified in sheep (Obinze 32.36%, Osina 15.74% and Orieagu 13.99%). The highest parasitic load was recorded for Fasciola spp. (26.7%) followed by Strongyle spp. (16.04%). Female sheep were at higher risk of infection with the gastrointestinal parasites. The study also revealed a high prevalence of gastrointestinal parasite in sheep in the study areas. Therefore, proper understanding of the epidemiology of the parasite is a prerequisite for the design of effective prevention and control programs to boost live stocks production, increase source of animal protein to humans and alleviate poverty.

Zoonotic Enteric Nematodes and Dermatophytes in Cat Cafés: An Investigation in the Bangkok Metropolitan Area, Thailand.

Cat cafés have gained significant popularity worldwide, offering a unique interface between humans and cats. The present study aims to assess the prevalence of potentially zoonotic endoparasites and dermatophytes from cats living in cat cafés situated in the Bangkok metropolitan area in 2017-2018. Cat fecal samples were subjected to microscopic examination employing centrifugal flotation and centrifugal sedimentation techniques. The hair samples from every cat were cultured on a dermatophyte test medium and Sabouraud dextrose agar and subsequently confirmed by visualization of the typical colony and macroconidia morphology. Findings from 11 cat cafés indicated an 18.2% (2/11) prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites, including Toxocara spp., Ancylostoma spp., Physaloptera spp., and Eucoleus aerophilus. Dermatophytes were prevalent in 16.2% (32/198) of the total number of cats tested, with Microsporum canis being the sole species identified. Notably, the presence of dermatophyte was significantly correlated with the presence of skin lesions and the cats' origin. In summary, the findings of this study have provided evidence of potentially zoonotic endoparasites and dermatophytes in cats residing in cat cafés. Therefore, it is imperative to heighten awareness and encourage preventive measures among cat café owners and customers to halt the dissemination of these pathogens.

Survey of Gastrointestinal Parasites and Lungworms in Cats and Dogs from Terceira and São Miguel Islands, Azores.

Parasitic diseases can affect animal health and welfare, and they may also constitute a danger to public health, particularly in island ecosystems. Fecal samples were collected from 205 dogs and 115 cats on the islands of São Miguel and Terceira, Azores archipelago (Portugal), using the Willis flotation technique and modified Baermann method, for further analysis. The overall prevalence of gastrointestinal parasitism in dogs was 53%, with the following results: Ancylostomatidae (hookworms) (42.44%), Trichuris vulpis (17.56%), Toxocara canis (12.68%) and Cystoisospora spp. (4.39%). In cats, the overall prevalence was also 53%, with the following results: Toxocara cati (31.3%), Ancylostomatidae (30.43%), Cystoisospora spp. (14.78%) and Trichuris sp. (0.87%). The prevalence of lungworms was 0.49% in canines and 20.87% in felines, with Angiostrongylus vasorum and Aelurostrongylus abstrusus species being detected in dogs and cats, respectively. The present survey detected a high prevalence of gastrointestinal infection, in both dogs and cats, probably because the samples came mainly from kennels and catteries and due to the peculiar climatic conditions in this insular territory, with mild temperature and high relative humidity. A considerable prevalence of aelurostrongylosis was also detected (20.87%), so it should be included in the list of differential diagnoses of diseases concerning the respiratory tract in cats of the archipelago.

Prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in domestic pigs from family farms in northeastern Argentina

Domestic pigs serve as significant hosts and reservoirs for multiple parasite species, some specific to pigs and many others of zoonotic importance. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of intestinal parasites in pigs within a rural area in northeastern Argentina. We also examined demographic information, breeding conditions, and exposure factors associated with parasite presence. Pig feces were subjected to coprological examination through flotation and sedimentation techniques. Modified Ziehl-Neelsen technique was employed to examine oocysts of Cryptosporidium spp. In total, 29 family farms with pig pens were analyzed, and 42 stool samples were collected from pigs on these farms. At the farm level, the presence of at least one parasite species was recorded in 27 rural houses (93.1%). We found that 90.4% of pigs were parasitized, with a specific parasitoses of 10 species, with a maximum of six species in a single host. The most prevalent protozoa were Entamoeba spp. (57.1%) and Blastocystis sp. (45.2%), followed by Iodamoeba butschlii (33.3%), Neobalantidium coli (21.4%), coccidia (14.2%), Cryptosporidium spp. (9.5%) and Giardia spp. (2.3%). The most prevalent helminths were Strongylidae eggs (52.3%), Ascaris spp. (14.2%) and Trichuris spp. (2.3%). We advocate for an urgent need to implement a comprehensive prophylaxis program prioritizing general hygiene practices such as regular cleaning, removal of fecal material and renewal of drinking water. Additionally, vaccination and deworming protocols should be implemented. Furthermore, this study highlights the necessity for molecular-level evaluations to detect potential zoonotic genotypes of the identified protozoa.

Prevalence of Gastrointestinal Parasites among Student of Nasarawa State University, Keffi Nasarawa State, Nigeria

Gastrointestinal parasites are significant agents of intestinal infection with public health implications worldwide. This study aimed to ascertain intestinal parasites among students of Nasarawa State University, Keffi, Nasarawa State. A total of 138 Stool samples were collected from students in hostels and off campus and examined using the direct wet preparation and formol-ether concentration techniques. The overall prevalence of 18.84% was recorded with a higher prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in samples collected from male subjects (23.61%) compared to the female individuals (13.63%) however, there was no statically significant difference (P&gt;0.05) in prevalence between males and females subjects. The intestinal parasites species identified and their respective prevalence were: two species of nematodes; hookworm (26.92%) and Ascaris lumbricoides (46.15), a species of cestode- Taenia saginata (15.38%) and trematode- Schistosoma mansoni (11.58%). Gastrointestinal parasitic infection was higher in male hostel (50.00%) followed by female hostel (13.46%) and the least was recorded from the student village that is those students who live off campus (11.58%) although statistically, there is no significant difference between the location (P&gt;0.05). The study showed that there is a high prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in the study area (especially male hostel) therefore, there is a need to encourage adequate personal hygiene and sanitation. Also, further study should be carried out on the impact of parasitic infection on academic performance of the students.

Prevalence of Gastrointestinal Parasites of African Catfish (Clarias gariepinus) from River Nasarawa, Nasarawa State, Nigeria

Fish and fish products are significant sources of nutrients for humans. Parasites of fish are of concern since they often produce a weakening of the host’s immunity thereby increasing susceptibility to secondary infections. This study was conducted with aimed to examine the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites infecting fish. Field study was conducted during the period from September to November 2022. A total of 200 fish samples (Clarias gariepinus) were examined for the presence of gastrointestinal parasites. Result show that, total number of fishes infected 60(30.0%) out of which 26(26.26%) males and 34(33.66) female. Two helminths one each from Cestode and Nematode were isolated from the infected fishes. The Cestode and its prevalence were Diphylobothrium latum (5%) and nematode Procamallanus spp. (3.33%). The protozoa recovered included: Hexamita spp., Protoopalina spp. and Microsporidia with 60.00%, 23.33% and 18.34% respectively. The majority of the parasites were found in the intestine. Fish specimens that were lighter in weight 10 -200g had less infection (12.5%) but those found with parasites weighed between 201-400g (42%). There was no significant difference (P&gt;0.05) in the infection between male and female Clarias gariepinus and with age on the prevalence and intensity of the gastrointestinal parasite. Wild fish (Clarias gariepinus) in River Nasarawa have a high prevalence of intestinal parasites, therefore it is recommended to avoid open defecation that finally is washed down to rivers and streams hence affecting the aquatic organisms and to properly cook wild fish obtained from River Nasarawa before consumption for safety.

&lt;b&gt; &lt;/b&gt;SEASONAL&lt;b&gt; &lt;/b&gt;VARIATION AND PREVALENCE OF GASTROINTESTINAL PARASITES IN CAPTIVE MAMMALS AT LAHORE ZOO

This study was conducted at Lahore Zoo, Punjab, Pakistan from January to December 2023 to assess the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in 10 different captive wild mammalian species. The mammals including girrafe (Giraffa), vervet monkey (Chlorocebus pygerythrus), zebra (Equus quagga), lion (Panthera leo), leopard (Panthera pardus), Rhinoceros (Rhinocerotidae), wild boar (Sus scrofa), Chinkara deer (Gazella bennettii), urial (Ovis vignei) and nilgai (Boselaphus tragocamelus) were selected. A total of 100 fresh fecal samples were collected from the animal enclosures in polythene bags (6×4 inches) 2 times during study period. Coprological examination was done using qualitative analysis such as direct smear method, sedimentation method and flotation methods. The parasitic prevalence was as follows zebra 44.5%, followed by giraffes, rhinoceroses, and wild boars at 27.8%, nilgai, urial, lion and vervet monkey at 22.3%, chinkara 16.7% and leopard 11.2%. The prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites was as Eimeria spp. (3.9%), Strongyloides spp. (3.4%), Trichuris spp. (2.8%), Giardia spp., Ascaris spp., and Strongyle spp. (2.3%), Entamoeba histolytica (1.12%), Trematode eggs (1.12%), Nematodirus (1.12%), Balantidium coli (0.6%), Haemonchus contortus (0.6%), Paramphistomum cervi (0.6%), Parascaris equorum (1.12%) and Cryptosporidium (1.12%). The overall parasitic prevalence was 23.9%, with a noticeable seasonal variation, being higher in summer (31.2%) compared to winter (17.79%). These findings highlight the significant parasitic burden in captive wild mammals. It can be concluded that regular de-worming sessions, cleaning, disinfection of enclosures and proper disposal of fecal matter should be done to reduce the overall parasitic burden.

Gastrointestinal parasitic infections: Prevalence and risk factors in West Ismailia, Arab Republic of Egypt

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 parasites of owned cats in three districts of Central Ethiopia: Prevalence and risk factors

This present, cross-sectional study investigated gastrointestinal parasites in owned cats was carried out across Bishoftu, Dukem, and Addis Ababa city and towns in Central Ethiopia from February 2022 to April 2023. The primary objectives were to estimate the prevalence and assess the risk factors associated with these parasites. A total of 213 faecal samples were collected and processed using flotation and McMaster techniques. An overall prevalence of 34.7% (74/213) of gastrointestinal parasites was recorded in the examined cats. The cats harboured nematode (14.6%), cestode (12.7%), and protozoan (5.6%) parasites in single (32.9%) and mixed (1.9%) species. Specifically, Toxocara cati, Dipylidium caninum, Taenia spp., Giardia spp., and Physaloptera spp. were the more frequently identified parasites, with prevalences of 9.4%, 8.9%, 3.8%, 2.8%, and 2.8%, respectively. Statistically significant differences (P < 0.05) were observed in the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites among cats of different sexes, ages, and feeding conditions. Thus, higher prevalence rates were observed in females (49.1%, OR = 2.3), young cats (70%, OR = 4.7), and those consuming uncooked food (40.5%, OR = 3.6). Faecal consistency also showed a statistically significant association (P < 0.05) with the presence of gastrointestinal parasites. However, no significant differences were noted in the prevalence among cats of different housing conditions, seasons, or agro-ecological zones. Cats sharing shelter with families had the highest prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites (52.2%). In conclusion, this study uncovered a notably high occurrence of gastrointestinal parasites in cats in the surveyed regions, emphasizing the imperative of adopting a One Health strategy to address the zoonotic parasites found in cats, which pose significant public health risks.

Prevalence of Gastrointestinal Parasites in Small Ruminant Farms in Southern Spain.

The primary population of small ruminants in Spain is concentrated in the southern region, a critical area for the country's livestock production. Indirect economic losses can occur when this livestock is affected by gastrointestinal parasites. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of these parasites in small ruminant herds (159 sheep and 39 goats) through coprological analyses and conducted a survey on farmers' management practices related to gastrointestinal parasite control. The survey results revealed some important aspects: monitoring through coprological analyses is not a common practice; veterinarians are not typically involved in deworming plans; anthelmintic treatment in adults is often applied twice a year in sheep and once a year in goats; and finally, drug rotation was higher in sheep farms. Coprological analyses showed Eimeria spp. as the most common parasitic infection, followed by Strongyles infection. Other parasites like Moniezia spp., Trichuris spp., and D. dendriticum were less important, although their prevalence was higher in sheep than goats. This constitutes the first report on the epidemiological status of gastrointestinal parasites in small ruminants in southern Spain. Based on the survey findings, the introduction of certain management measures on farms could potentially mitigate parasite infections.

A prevalence study on gastrointestinal parasitic infections of pig (Sus scrofa) in and around Meerut, Western Uttar Pradesh, India.

The present study was conducted to record the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites of pigs by faecal sample examination. Faecal samples were collected in three different seasons viz; monsoon, post monsoon and pre monsoon, from in and around Meerut district of Western Uttar Pradesh. A total of 642 faecal samples were collected for a period of one year (2020-21). The overall prevalence rate recorded for gastrointestinal parasites in pigs was 64.4%.The findings of the present work showed that seasons have a significant role on the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites infection in pigs, with highest prevalence in monsoon (78.34%) followed by pre-monsoon (60.19%) and lowest in post- monsoon seasons (54.67%). Thus, the present study will be helpful in designing the effective control strategy of parasitic infections for optimum production in porcine industry as well as preventive measures against zoonotic diseases spread by pigs.

Prevalence of Gastrointestinal Parasites of Dogs among Four Communities in Ondo West LGA

Dogs have close contact with humans, which represents a serious potential source of direct transmission of parasites to man. Gastrointestinal parasites are a major impediment to dog health worldwide through direct and indirect losses. Most dogs are sub-clinically infected and continuously shed infective helminth eggs in their faeces, contaminating the environment and increasing health risks to man. In developing countries like Nigeria, the risks of zoonotic infection from dogs are high, owing to the lack of prevalence studies to determine their existence in the environment. The aim of this research is to determine the prevalence and extent of gastrointestinal parasites in healthy dogs, survey the types of gastrointestinal infestation in dogs kept by owners in the study area, determine the effect of sex, types and location of dogs in the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites and prevalence of gastrointestinal parasite in Ondo city. A total number of 122 samples were examined. 30 were positive with 15 protozoan species, namely: Ancylostoma caninum, Capillaria boehmi, coccidia, oocyst, cyistoisospora canis, Dipylidium caninum, Toxocara canis, Trichuris vulpis, Toxascaris leonina, Paragonimus kellicotti, Physaloptera sp, Uncinaria sp, Sarcocystis spp, Taeniasp, Spirocerci lupi and Eimeria sp with Capillaria sp having the highest prevalence and Paragominus sp (3.3%) with the least prevalence. Out of the four sample sites, Ajue had the highest prevalence with (35%), Laje (28%), Ondo Town (20%) and Bagbe with the least prevalence of (20%). From the breeds examined, the local breeds had the highest prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites (40.8%), cross-breeds (15.2%) and exotic breeds had the least prevalence (12.5%). Based on their age group, puppies less than 1 year had a high prevalence of infection at (25%), while the adult had a prevalence rate of (23.8%). In relation to the sex of the dogs, the prevalence rate was higher in males (25%) than in females (24%). This study indicates possible means of zoonotic infections if dogs are not properly cared for or treated, especially young puppies who have been around for less than one year.