Parasites with zoonotic potential in canine fecal samples from Garanhuns, Pernambuco, Brazil

Among the gastrointestinal parasites of dogs that present public health importance, the species of the genus Ancylostoma and Toxocara are the most frequently detected, and have been important cause of soil contamination. The aim of this study was to detect gastrointestinal parasites in dog’s feces collected in households, streets and public squares of the city of Garanhuns, Pernambuco, Brazil. Fecal samples (n = 640) were collected in the environment and evaluated by parasitological methods of Willis-Mollay and Hoffman, Pons and Janer. Out of all samples, 51.09% (327/640) were positive for gastrointestinal parasites. In particular, in 70.94% (232/327) of the samples were detected eggs of Ancylostoma spp., and in 11.01% (36/327) coinfection by Ancylostoma spp. and Toxocara canis. In conclusion, the presence of eggs of zoonotic parasites in feces collected from the environment in the city of Garanhuns represent a risk for the transmission of Cutaneous Larva Migrans and Visceral Larva Migrans for the human population

Soil contamination by zoonotic gastrointestinal parasites of mammals in Garanhuns, Pernambuco, Brazil

The increase of canine population in urban areas, which englobes stray or domiciled dogs, has an important epidemiological role in soil contamination of public areas. This increase contributes for the dissemination of infections by parasites via faeces of infected animals. The aim of this study was to detect the presence of immature forms of gastrointestinal parasites of mammals in soil from public roads and squares of the municipality of Garanhuns, state of Pernambuco, Brazil. A total of 211 soil samples were obtained and evaluated through the Faust and Rugai techniques. Out of 211 soil samples, 49.29% (104/211) scored positive the presence of immature forms of gastrointestinal parasites of mammals, being Ancylostoma sp. (37.91%) the most frequent. In conclusion, the soil of different parts of the municipality of Garanhuns is contamined by parasites of medical and veterinary concern. Therefore, the implementing of integrated prophylaxis measures is necessary to prevent the soil contamination, reducing the risk of infection for humans

Seroprevalence of Neospora caninum and Toxoplasma gondii in dogs from an urban area of North-eastern Brazil: a spatial approach

Abstract INTRODUCTION: The present study aimed to assess the seroprevalence and spatial distribution of Neospora caninum and Toxoplasma gondii in dogs. METHODS: Blood samples (n = 241) were collected and analyzed for the presence of anti-N. caninum and anti-T. gondii antibodies. The spatial distribution was evaluated using kernel density estimation (KDE). RESULTS Anti-N. caninum and anti-T. gondii antibodies were detected in 24.06% (58/241) and 9.54% (23/241) of samples, respectively. A heterogeneous spatial distribution of positive dogs was observed across the city. CONCLUSIONS These data are pivotal for better understanding the dynamics of infection caused by these protozoa in the canine population