Species Of Gastrointestinal Parasites Research Articles

Prevalence of gastrointestinal helminth parasites of cattle in Kugiya Market, Bukuru, Jos South LGA, Plateau State, Nigeria

Gastrointestinal helminth infection in cattle caused by trematodes (flukes), cestodes (tapeworms), and nematodes (roundworms) causes significant diseases which may result to growth retardation and significant economic damage. An investigation of gastrointestinal parasites of cattle sold at Kugiya market Bukuru, Jos South LGA was carried out between January and April 2016. Faecal samples of 232 cattle were examined using floatation method (Saturated Salt Solution). All the samples had gastrointestinal parasites. Nineteen 19(100%) species of gastrointestinal parasites were encountered, 2(3.88%) of which are protozoans, while the remaining 17(96.12%) were helminths as follows: 5(17.67%) trematodes (including 1 amphistome), 1(12.07%) cestode and 11(17.67%) nematodes species. The most frequently encountered were nematodes with a prevalence of 66.38% (in 154 samples), followed by the trematodes in 41 samples with a prevalence of 17.67%, cestodes in 28(12.07%) and the least protozoa in 9(3.88%). The parasites encountered are Dicrocoelium dendrititcum 8(3.45%), Taenia saginata 28(12.07%), Ostertagia ostertagi 16(6.89%), Trichuris trichuiria 13(5.60%), Oesophagustomum radiatum 16(6.89%), Bunostomum phlebotomum 22(9.84%), Amphiostomes species 15(6.47%), Haemonchus contortus 16(6.89%), Cooperia pectinata 19(8.19%), Trichostrongylus axei 11(4.74%), Dicrocoelium hospes 5(2.16%), Strongyloides papillosus 11(4.74%), Fasciola hepatica 7(3.02%), Fasciola gigantica 6(2.59%), Oesophagustomum species 12 (5.17%), Dictyocaulus viviparous 7 (3.02%), Ascaris vitulorum 11(4.74%), Eimeria bovis 3(1.29%) and Eimeria zuernii 6 (2.59%). The cestode, T. saginata had the highest prevalence of 12.07% while the protozoa, E. bovis had the lowest 1.29%. Sex and age-related infection were not significantly different at P > 0.05. Likewise, the source, breed and stool consistency related infection were not significantly different.

Prevalence and Genotyping of Water- and Food-Borne Parasitic Protozoans (Giardia duodenalis and Cryptosporidium spp.) in Hospitalized Patients from Northwestern Romania.

Giardia duodenalis and Cryptosporidium spp. are important zoonotic protozoan pathogens that infect the gastro-intestinal tract of numerous vertebrates, including humans, and both parasites are responsible for water- or food-borne outbreaks of disease worldwide. Although, globally, both parasites are highly prevalent, particularly in developing countries, epidemiological data from Romania are scarce, and genotyping has rarely been performed. The aims of the present study were to investigate the occurrence and genetic diversity of G. duodenalis and Cryptosporidium spp. in patients hospitalized in Northwestern Romania in relation to clinical and paraclinical presentation and to identify the relative frequency of non-specific symptoms and potential risk factors. Between June 2022 and January 2024, 426 fecal samples were screened for gastro-intestinal parasites by rapid tests and microscopical examination, further confirmed by PCR and sequencing. Giardia duodenalis was detected and characterized in 12 samples (2.82%), while Cryptosporidium parvum was confirmed in four samples (0.94%). A majority of positive patients were symptomatic and reported nausea and vomiting with a significantly higher frequency compared to negative ones. This study provides new insights into the epidemiological status and clinical implications of gastro-intestinal parasite species and genospecies in Romania that are necessary for an in-depth understanding of the potential zoonotic transmission and improvement of patient care.

Multi-omics data elucidate parasite-host-microbiota interactions and resistance to Haemonchus contortus in sheep

BackgroundThe integration of molecular data from hosts, parasites, and microbiota can enhance our understanding of the complex biological interactions underlying the resistance of hosts to parasites. Haemonchus contortus, the predominant sheep gastrointestinal parasite species in the tropics, causes significant production and economic losses, which are further compounded by the diminishing efficiency of chemical control owing to anthelmintic resistance. Knowledge of how the host responds to infection and how the parasite, in combination with microbiota, modulates host immunity can guide selection decisions to breed animals with improved parasite resistance. This understanding will help refine management practices and advance the development of new therapeutics for long-term helminth control.MethodsEggs per gram (EPG) of feces were obtained from Morada Nova sheep subjected to two artificial infections with H. contortus and used as a proxy to select animals with high resistance or susceptibility for transcriptome sequencing (RNA-seq) of the abomasum and 50 K single-nucleotide genotyping. Additionally, RNA-seq data for H. contortus were generated, and amplicon sequence variants (ASV) were obtained using polymerase chain reaction amplification and sequencing of bacterial and archaeal 16S ribosomal RNA genes from sheep feces and rumen content.ResultsThe heritability estimate for EPG was 0.12. GAST, GNLY, IL13, MGRN1, FGF14, and RORC genes and transcripts were differentially expressed between resistant and susceptible animals. A genome-wide association study identified regions on chromosomes 2 and 11 that harbor candidate genes for resistance, immune response, body weight, and adaptation. Trans-expression quantitative trait loci were found between significant variants and differentially expressed transcripts. Functional co-expression modules based on sheep genes and ASVs correlated with resistance to H. contortus, showing enrichment in pathways of response to bacteria, immune and inflammatory responses, and hub features of the Christensenellaceae, Bacteroides, and Methanobrevibacter genera; Prevotellaceae family; and Verrucomicrobiota phylum. In H. contortus, some mitochondrial, collagen-, and cuticle-related genes were expressed only in parasites isolated from susceptible sheep.ConclusionsThe present study identified chromosome regions, genes, transcripts, and pathways involved in the elaborate interactions between the sheep host, its gastrointestinal microbiota, and the H. contortus parasite. These findings will assist in the development of animal selection strategies for parasite resistance and interdisciplinary approaches to control H. contortus infection in sheep.Graphical

Using diagnostics in supporting sustainable worm control in horses

Anthelmintic resistance in horses is an ongoing problem. Changes in methods of worming – from group worming to testing individual horses and worming appropriately – are important to help prevent any further resistance developing. There are various methods to test for worm burdens in horses, including faecal egg counts, blood tests and saliva tests. This article discusses these methods in relation to specific species of gastrointestinal parasites, in addition to how pasture management can be used to help maintain low levels of resistance.

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.

Gastrointestinal Parasites in Iberian Wolf (Canis lupus signatus) from the Iberian Peninsula

The Iberian Peninsula is one of the most humanized areas in Europe, yet humans may cohabit with large predators, such as the Iberian wolf (Canis lupus signatus), at the expense of many contributions to its conservation. The limited wolves’ territory leads to a close relationship between this wild species, humans, and other animals, which may promote the spillover of pathogens, such as gastrointestinal parasites. This review intends to provide an update concerning gastrointestinal parasite findings performed using coprological methods on fecal samples from Iberian wolves. Studies conducted in Portugal and Spain through coprology presented a prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites of 57.0–100% in Spain and 21.5–68.3% in Portugal. Parasites belonging to Protozoa, Trematoda, Cestoda, and Nematoda were specified, alongside thirteen genera and twenty species of gastrointestinal parasites. In this study, 76.9% (10/13) of genera and 65.0% (13/20) of species of gastrointestinal parasites were identified as having zoonotic potential. These results highlight that further studies are needed to better understand the parasitic agents circulating in the wild in humanized areas, such as the Iberian Peninsula.

Prevalence of gastrointestinal parasitic infection in cows and buffaloes in Lower Dir, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan.

Gastrointestinal (GI) Parasitic infection is a hot issue for cattle management. There is variation of GI parasites effects in sex, age of cattle, drinking water condition, nutrition, and severity of infection. Studies on prevalence of GI parasites among cattle population in Dir Lower are lacking. A total of 40 farms were selected randomly in six tehsil namely Tehsil Adenzai, Tehsil Timergara, Tehsil Balambat, Tehsil Munda ,Tehsil Lalqala, Tehsil Khall. Freshly cattle fecal samples were collected randomly from the selected farms during March 2018 till December 2018. Out of 314 buffaloes and cattle examined 58.59% (184/314) were positive for eggs, cyst/oocyst of one or more species of GI Parasites. The prevalence of parasitic infection was higher in Buffaloes 63.55% (75/118) as compared to Cow 55.61% (109/196) but the difference was not significant (p>0.05) Entamoeba,spp, Moniezia spp, Haemonchus spp and Coccidian spp were found in this study. The non-treated animals indicated the highest percentage of infection in cow 57.71% (101/175) and buffalo 68.13% (62/91).GI parasite prevalence in female animal were higher female cow 62.58% (87/139) and female buffalo 77.33% (58/75) as compared to male. But the difference is non-significant (p> 0.05) Yearling calves had the lower rate of GI parasitic infection than adults. Future investigations are necessary to evaluate the economic loss due to GI parasites in cattle's.

Prevalence of gastrointestinal parasite in small ruminants of District Dir Upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province of Pakistan.

The present research was planned to assess the occurrence of intestinal parasites in small ruminants of Upper Dir of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province of Pakistan. For this purpose, the faecal material was collected randomly with gloved fingers directly from the rectum region of sheep and goats and the faecal materials were then put in hygienic plastic bottles with 10% formalin. The overall 315 (n=184 sheep and n= 131 goats) faecal samples were collected out of 315 samples, 281 were found positive for different parasites. Patterns-wise prevalence of GI parasites of the study area was found. Overall Single parasitism 89.20% (281/315) with 94.0% (173/184) in sheep and 82.43% (108/131) in goats. Double parasitic infection in small ruminant recorded in which Fasciola+ Haemonchus. contortus in sheep were found their prevalence was 25.54% (47/184). While in goats, the double parasitic infection in which Haemonchus contortus+Trichuris spp were found and their prevalence were 23.43% (30/131). The species found in the sample of sheep were includes, i.e., Strongyloides papillosus (41.30%), Heamonchus controtus (21.73%), Trichuris ovis (17.39%), and Fasciola hepatica (13.58%), the corresponding value for goat were Strongyloides spp 33.33% (36/108), Haemonchus spp 28.70%, (27/108), Trichuris spp 25.20% (27/184) and Fasciola spp 10.68% (14/184). The sheep of the study area are more infected as compared to goats. This study suggested that gastrointestinal parasites are major health problems of small ruminants in the study area. Therefore, a comprehensive study on species of gastrointestinal parasites circulating in the area, control options, cost-effective strategies and awareness about gastrointestinal parasites among the farmers in the study area should be instituted.

Prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in bovines along the elevation gradients of Annapurna Landscape, Nepal

Gastrointestinal (GI) parasitic infection is a great concern for livestock management in Nepal, which may vary with the age and sex of the animals, feeding practices, habitat types, and interaction with other domestic and wild animals. As a consequence of growing environmental changes, it is anticipated that temperature and precipitation variation in altitudinal gradients will influence parasite communities and their hosts with unpredictable impacts. In light of this, the current study aimed to explore the pattern of prevalence and factors affecting GI parasites in bovines along the altitudinal and environmental gradients of Chitwan Annapurna Landscape. A total of 600 faecal specimens of bovines were collected from six different blocks and examined microscopically in the Zoology laboratory of Birendra Multiple Campus, Bharatpur, Nepal in between 2019 to 2020. The presence of cysts, oocysts and eggs of parasites in faecal samples were detected morphometrically using standard qualitative and quantitative methods. Out of 600 faecal samples of cattle and buffaloes examined, 64.8% were found positive for one or more species of GI parasites. The prevalence of parasitic infection was significantly higher in cattle (68.8%) as compared to the buffaloes (62.7%, p=0.007). A total of 16 species (5 protozoans, 11 helminths) were reported. The prevalence of GI parasites was significantly lower with increasing annual rainfall, elevation, distance from the forest and water resources (p=0.0001) but significantly higher with increasing temperature (p=0.001). The calf (p=0.028) and sub-adults (p=0.028) were significantly infected than the adults. Despite the fact that a large number of the herders used veterinary drugs for deworming, GI parasites were still rampant in the cows and buffaloes. We conclude that GI parasites are serious problems in the cattle and buffaloes of Chitwan Annapurna Landscape. Hence, regular health checkups, deworming, cleanliness of the sheds, and water resources are suggested regularly.

Enteric Parasitosis of HIV-positive Patients in Cameroon: A Case of the Regional Hospital of Bafoussam (Western Region)

Objectives: The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) causes a progressive alteration of the immune system leading to increased susceptibility to infectious agents. A few studies have been done on gastrointestinal parasites in HIV-infected persons in Cameroon. However, these studies need to be updated. The objective of this study was to identify and determine the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in relation to associated factors in HIV+ patients at the Bafoussam Regional Hospital.&#x0D; Methods: The study was conducted from May to December 2021 on 240 patients aged from 3 to 73 years. Stool samples were tested for parasites and HIV viral loads were assessed in blood samples.&#x0D; Results: The analyses revealed that 58 (24.2%) patients were carriers of at least one parasite species. A total of 7 parasite species were identified, the most predominant being Entameba histolytica (12.62%) followed by Cryptosporidium spp (4.54%). A high majority, 91.3% had undetectable viral loads with the presence of intestinal parasitosis. However, the most infested patients were those with viral loads above 50 copies/ml. Concerning the duration of antiretroviral treatment, the rate of infestation was higher in patients with less than 12 months on treatment (OR=2.8; p=0.04). The prevalence of infestation was significantly higher in those under 20 years of age (OR = 5.13; p = 0.03). The distribution of gastrointestinal parasite species according to viral loads varied significantly for Blastocystis hominis and Dicrocoelum dendriticum with p&lt;0.05.&#x0D; Conclusion: The presence of these parasites reveals that people living with HIV should be regularly screened and treated to improve their health status.

Metagenomic Studies for the Detection of Parelaphostrongylus odocoilei, Ostertagia leptospicularis and Eimeria ahsata in Northern Cyprus Sheep for the First Time

Background: Gastrointestinal parasitism is considered one of the major health problems of ruminants in developing and undeveloped countries in the world. Despite the universal knowledge of these parasites, little is known about their prevalence and distribution in Northern Cyprus. This study is aimed at the microscopic and metagenomic study of gastrointestinal parasites across Cyprus sheep farms. Methods: A total of 200 sheep faecal samples were randomly collected across sheep farms in suburban regions of Northern Cyprus during 2021-22. Samples were analyzed using the centrifugal floatation technique. Data were subjected to chi-square test analysis on SPSS to determine the relationship between age, sex of animals and prevalence of gastrointestinal nematodes. Samples were randomly selected to extract DNA and subjected to metagenomic analysis after which DNA has been extracted from the samples. Result: Our investigations in the Northern Cyprus sheep farms allowed us to identify three species of gastrointestinal parasites namely Parelaphostrongylus odocoilei, Ostertagia leptospicularis and Eimeria ahsata which are new to this region. The GINs recovered are Haemonchus, Moniezia and Toxocara among others. A high prevalence (85%) of gastrointestinal parasites was recorded. Results showed a considerable significant relationship (P less than 0.05) between the age of animals and parasite prevalence.

Survey on the prevalence of intestinal parasites in domestic cats (Felis catus Linnaeus, 1758) in central Nepal.

Cats(Felis catus) are the only felines that live in close contact with humans. Since cats can act as vectors, carriers, reservoirs and definitive hosts of many gastrointestinal (GI) parasites, parasitic assessment could contribute to their survival and well-being. The current study aimed to assess the diversity and prevalence of GI parasites in domestic and feral cats from Ratnanagar in Chitwan in Central Nepal. A total of 107 fresh faecal samples of cats (90 household cats and 17 feral cats) of varied ages and sex were collected and transported to the laboratory. The copromicroscopic examination was carried out following direct wet mount, formalin-ethyl acetate sedimentation, saturated salt flotation, acid-fast staining and sporulation techniques. Furthermore, associated risk factors were evaluated to ascertain the predictor of risks for parasitic acquisition. The current study revealed an overall 95.3% prevalence rate with a 100% rate in feral cats and 94.4% in household cats. Altogether, 18 (17 known and one unknown) different species of GI parasites were reported with the helminths (95.3%; 11 species) and the protozoa (55.1%; seven species). Besides age and sex, outdoor lifestyle, absence or unknown history of medication and hunting behaviour of the felines are the predictors of risk. Furthermore, mixed infection was comparatively higher than single infection in the faecal samples. Cats harbour a higher prevalence and greater diversity of GI parasites, and parasitism varies with age and sex. This finding can be essential for veterinarians and public health authorities for strategic treatment and for assessing the zoonotic transmission of the parasites from these felines. Importantly, an effective medication strategy for cats and owners is recommended.

Zoonotic Giardia duodenalis Genotypes and Other Gastrointestinal Parasites in a Badger Population Living in an Anthropized Area of Central Italy.

The Eurasian badger (Meles meles) is widespread in Italy and occupies different habitats. The occurrence and species of gastrointestinal parasites were evaluated in a free-ranging badger population living in a highly anthropic area in central Italy. A total of 43 fecal samples were examined using the flotation test, the Mini-FLOTAC and Baermann techniques, and a rapid immunoassay for the detection of Giardia duodenalis and Cryptosporidium spp. fecal antigens. Molecular investigations were also performed that aimed at identifying Giardia genotypes. Overall, 37/43 samples (86%) were found positive. Specifically, 48.8% (21 samples) were positive for G. duodenalis, 23.2% (10/43) for Cryptosporidium spp., and 7% (3/43) for coccidian oocysts. Strongyloides sp. nematode larvae were detected in 3/43 samples (7%). Ascarid (1/43, 2.3%), capillariid (1/43, 2.3%), and strongyle-type eggs (76.7%, 33/43) were also identified. Among the 11 readable sequences of samples that were positive for G. duodenalis by end-point PCR (18/21), the zoonotic assemblage A sub-assemblage AII and mixed assemblage A and B were identified. This is the first report of zoonotic G. duodenalis genotypes in the Eurasian badger. Moreover, most of identified parasites have zoonotic potential and/or potential impact on the population health of wild badgers and other wild and domestic animals.

Investigation of Different Gastrointestinal Parasites in Stray Dogs in Garmian Administration Area, Kurdistan Region, Iraq

The aims of the study were to diagnose and investigate the prevalence of different gastrointestinal parasites species in dog feces in various locations of the study area. The study was conducted between April and July 2021, during this period a total of 269 fresh fecal samples were collected from adult stray dogs of both gender in public areas from eleven municipalities of Garmian administration, then they were directly processed and analyzed using different standard coprological techniques: screening by dissecting microscope, direct fecal smear with normal saline and Lugol’s solution staining, centrifugal sedimentation, and centrifugal flotation. The results of the study showed that 172 (63.94%) of the total examined dogs were found to be infected with one or more gastrointestinal parasite species (protozoa, cestodes, nematodes, and trematode) with the prevalence 57.620% (155/269), 28.252% (76/269), 10.037% (27/269), and 0.371% (1/269) respectively, as well as indicated that there were statistically significant differences among these rates (p&lt;0.05). The detected parasites significantly differ in their prevalence include: Echinococcus granulosus 21.933% (59/269), Cystoisospora canis 21.561% (58/269), Sarcocystis spp. 12.639% (34/269), Giardia spp. 11.524% (31/269), Ancylostoma canis 5.204% (14/269), Cryptosporidium spp. 4.089% (11/269), Eimeria spp. 5.204% (14/269), Dipylidium caninum 3.345% (9/269), Mesocestoid lineatus 2.973% (8/269), Balantidium spp. 2.602% (7/269), Toxocara canis 1.486% (4/269), Trichuris vulpis 1.486% (4/269), Uncinaria stenocephala 1.115% (3/269), Toxascaris leonina 0.743% (2/269) and Nanophyetus salmincola 0.371% (1/269). This was the first record of these parasites in stray dogs from Garmian Administration area/Iraqi Kurdistan region, in which the types of infection showed that 62.209% (107/172) dogs had single, and 37.790% (65/172) mixed infections which included; double 25.581% (44/172), triple 11.046% (19/172), and quadruple 1.162% (2/172), these types of infection were showed statistically significant difference among each other (p&lt;0.05). The highest prevalence of intestinal infection among dogs was found in May at 72% (36/50) followed by 65.625% (63/96) in April, 61.29% (38/62) in June, and the lowest was 54.098% (33/61) in July with significant difference among them (p&lt;0.05). The results also revealed that all sampled locations examined were positive for the majority of the above-identified parasites, the most prevalent location was Kifri district 100 % (19/19), followed by Qorato sub-district 76.47% (13/17), Shekh Taweel sub.district 75% (12/16), Khanaqin district 69.696% (23/33), Rizgari sub-district 65% (13/20), Pebaz (Bawanur) sub-district 64.285% (18/28), Kalar district 62.5% (20/32), Serqela sub-district 61.29% (19/31), Maidan sub-district 58.333% (14/24), Awaspi sub.district 52.38% (11/21), while Kokiz sub-district was appeared to be the lowest prevalence rate of infection 35.714% (10/28), the statistical analysis showed significant differences in infection rates among these locations (p&lt;0.05).It was that all the identified parasites were recorded for the first time in this area and they were potentially hazardous zoonotic agents, so it was recommended that human beings should avoid fecal contamination of stray dogs in public areas, moreover serious attention by the veterinarians, municipality of the study area and public health service is necessary to generate awareness of these parasites' potential threat.

Prevalence and burden of gastrointestinal parasites in stray cattle of the Kathmandu Valley.

Gastrointestinal parasites (GIPs) are common among cattle resulting severe infection. Prevalence of GIPs in stray street cattle may pose risk of dissemination of parasites of zoonotic importance. This study was conducted to determine the prevalence of GIPs in stray cattle of the Kathmandu valley. One hundred (n = 100) freshly voided dung samples were collected from eight sites. The samples were processed using the concentration method for microscopic examination, and modified McMaster technique for quantification of mean eggs/oocysts per gram of feces (EPG/OPG). Results revealed that 72% of the cattle were found positive for one or more species of GIPs and nine genera of GIPs were recorded (Eimeria, Ostertagia, Haemonchus, Trichostrongylus, Capillaria, Trichuris, Toxocara, Fasciolaand Paramphistomum). The prevalence of parasitic infection was higher in males (73.68%) than in females (69.76%). The prevalence was found to be highest in adults (63.89%) followed by heifers or steers (27.78%) and calves (8.33%). Approximately, 76% of the cross breed and 65% of the local breed of cattle were positive for parasitic infection. The parasites differed both in prevalence and intensity. Eimeria sp. was the most prevalent (27%) species and had the highest intensity (858.02 OPG ± 63.46 SD). To our knowledge, this is the first research of its kind in relation to stray cattle in Nepal. Our findings reveal that there is a burden of helminth infections of zoonotic and socioeconomic importance in straycattle. Therefore, we recommend regular inspection of stray cattle and relevant preventive measures be put in place.

Factors Associated with Amoebic Dysentery in Captive Non-Human Primates of The Mefou Primate Sanctuary

Primates are known to harbour different gastrointestinal parasite species that affect their survival and reproductive activity. Entamoeba histolytica infects humans predominantly as well as non-human (NH) primates causing amoebiasis. Amoebic dysentery is common amongst non-human primates in captive sites. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the risk factors associated with the prevalence of amoebic dysentery in captive NH primates of the Mefou Primate Sanctuary (MPS) in Cameroon. The faecal samples of 277 NH primates were analysed by qualitative (direct smear and evergreen kit sedimentation technique) coprology from January to July 2019. Factors such as habitat type, keeper’s age and level of education were assessed to evaluate their effect on the prevalence of amoebic dysentery. The prevalence of Entamoeba histolytica was 46.2% (P=0,079 and χ2=18.13). E histolytica was the most predominant parasite species detected and it was present in all instances of mixed parasite infections. Amongst the NH primates positive for E. histolytica, 28 suffered from amoebic dysentery giving a prevalence of 21.9% and one of the infected primates (Cercopithecus pogonias) actually died from amoebic dysentery. The prevalence of mixed infections was significantly lower amongst NH primates living in outdoor enclosures compared to those living in other habitat types (P=0.015, χ2=10.46). The rate of re-infection was significantly higher amongst NH primates under the care of keepers with the lowest (primary school) level of education (P=0.001, χ2=13.09) on one hand and of older keepers (≥50s) (P = 0.008, χ2=13.708) on the other hand. This study shows that amoebic dysentery is a cause for a major concern in the MPS. The housing conditions of the NH primates at the sanctuary, the keeper’s age and level of education were important factors that influenced the prevalence of amoebic dysentery. Adequate measures should be put in place to address the situation.

Gastrointestinal parasites in backyard chickens of mid hill region of Meghalaya

The aim of the present study was to determine the prevalence of gastrointestinal (GI) parasites in the backyard chickens of mid hill region of Meghalaya. Fecal samples (2,290) were collected from different age groups, viz. &lt; 8 weeks (694), 8–28 weeks (772) and &gt; 28 weeks (824) and examined by flotation, sedimentation and modified McMaster techniques. Overall prevalence of GI parasitic infections was 37.20%. Eight species, viz. Eimeria sp. (30.16%), Heterakis gallinarum (14.08%), Ascaridia galli (21.36%), Strongyloides avium (12.44%), Capillaria sp. (7.51%), Raillietina sp. (8.56%), Syngamus trachea (3.52%) and Choanotaenia infundibulum (2.34%) were recorded. Age wise variations in infections were observed and trend was &lt; 8 (25.64%), 8–28 (48.18%) and &gt; 28 (38.71%) weeks old birds. Eimeria sp. was observed highest in both &lt; 8 (67.97%) weeks and 8–28 (25.80%) weeks birds.A. galli (28.21%) was recorded highest in &gt; 28 weeks old birds. The present study revealed that different species of GI parasites are prevalent throughout the year in the backyard chicken of mid hill region of Meghalaya, thus regular screening and deworming of bird is suggested for profitable backyard poultry farming.

Free-ranging rural dogs are highly infected with helminths, contaminating environment nine times more than urban dogs.

Regardless of the highly efficient anthelmintics available and the control measures taken by dog owners and veterinarians, gastrointestinal parasites, especially zoonotic helminths, are still abundant in dogs and pose a health risk to humans. Free-ranging dogs in rural areas can be an important source of helminth infection. The aims of the present work were to collect scats of rural dogs, determine the environmental contamination caused by helminth infections among rural dogs of Western Estonia, analyse how diet affects helminth infection rate and compare the findings to a previous study focusing on dog helminths in urban areas of Estonia. To differentiate the scats of dogs from other sympatric canids, a genetic method was applied. Of 328 samples, genetic analysis identified 84 scats belonging to dogs, of which 87.0% were infected with helminths. A high proportion of rural dog scats harboured eggs of Taeniidae (65.5%), followed by Trichuris spp./Eucoleus spp. (15.5%), Uncinaria stenocephala (14.7%) and Toxocara canis (4.3%). Coinfections occurred in 34.5% of the samples, being the most common between Taeniidae and U. stenocephala (41.4%). The intensity model indicated higher helminth infection rate in rural dogs preying on rodents and game. In comparison to urban dogs, rural dogs were nine times more likely to be infected with intestinal parasites. These results emphasize the need to implement measures to reduce helminth infections in dogs living in rural areas of Western Estonia. Among a complex of measures to be taken, we suggest that it is also important to diagnose which gastrointestinal parasite species infect dogs to determine specific anthelmintic treatment against these parasites.

Prevalence of intestinal parasites among school children of Janakpurdham, Nepal

There is considerable variation in the findings over the years of study in the prevalence of school-aged children in different parts of Nepal. Recent progress in the living standards of the citizen may affect the prevalence of intestinal parasitosis. This study was aimed to determine the prevalence of different species of gastrointestinal parasites among school children of Janakpurdham, Nepal. A prospective study was carried out by collecting 155 stool samples from 10 randomly selected schools of Janakpurdham. The samples were processed by the formal-ether sedimentation method and then examined microscopically by iodine and wet mount methods. Of the 155 students, 17(10.96%) had one or more parasites. Eight species of parasites were identified during this study, was recorded in 5 pupils representing 3.2% of the study population, followed by 3(1.9%), 2(1.3%), 2(1.3%), 2(1.3%), sp. and each recorded 1(0.6%) respectively. Relatively low prevalence of intestinal parasitosis in school children of Janakpur city still requires more aggressive interventional steps and lifestyle changes.

Habitat fragmentation and vegetation structure impact gastrointestinal parasites of small mammalian hosts in Madagascar.

Deleterious effects of habitat loss and fragmentation on biodiversity have been demonstrated in numerous taxa. Although parasites represent a large part of worldwide biodiversity, they are mostly neglected in this context. We investigated the effects of various anthropogenic environmental changes on gastrointestinal parasite infections in four small mammal hosts inhabiting two landscapes of fragmented dry forest in northwestern Madagascar. Coproscopical examinations were performed on 1,418 fecal samples from 903 individuals of two mouse lemur species, Microcebus murinus (n = 199) and M. ravelobensis (n = 421), and two rodent species, the native Eliurus myoxinus (n = 102) and the invasive Rattus rattus (n = 181). Overall, sixteen parasite morphotypes were detected and significant prevalence differences between host species regarding the most common five parasites may be explained by parasite–host specificity or host behavior, diet, and socioecology. Ten host‐ and habitat‐related ecological variables were evaluated by generalized linear mixed modeling for significant impacts on the prevalence of the most abundant gastrointestinal parasites and on gastrointestinal parasite species richness (GPSR). Forest maturation affected homoxenous parasites (direct life cycle) by increasing Lemuricola, but decreasing Enterobiinae gen. sp. prevalence, while habitat fragmentation and vegetation clearance negatively affected the prevalence of parasites with heterogenic environment (i.e., Strongyloides spp.) or heteroxenous (indirect cycle with intermediate host) cycles, and consequently reduced GPSR. Forest edges and forest degradation likely change abiotic conditions which may reduce habitat suitability for soil‐transmitted helminths or required intermediate hosts. The fragility of complex parasite life cycles suggests understudied and potentially severe effects of decreasing habitat quality by fragmentation and degradation on hidden ecological networks that involve parasites. Since parasites can provide indispensable ecological services and ensure stability of ecosystems by modulating animal population dynamics and nutrient pathways, our study underlines the importance of habitat quality and integrity as key aspects of conservation.