ABSTRACT Objective: To characterize ocular toxocariasis clinically and epidemiologically. Methods: An observational, descriptive and cross-sectional study was conducted with patients diagnosed with ocular toxocariasis, attended at the Instituto Cubano de Oftalmología Ramón Pando Ferrer in the period from April 2019 to December 2022. Results: The male sex predominated (53.7 %), together with the age group 0-10 years (73.1 %). 56.1 % of the patients lived in rural areas. Cohabitation with domestic animals accounted for 75.6 %. The most frequently reported symptom was decreased visual acuity (48.8 %). The most frequent form of presentation was peripheral granuloma in the right eye (52.4 %). The most observed complication was retinal detachment (58.5 %). Conclusions: Ocular infection by Toxocara spp. is a preventable, as well as incapacitating, disease that limits the educational, occupational and general life development of affected patients, particularly children, males and those living in rural areas cohabitating with domestic animals, especially dogs.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Caracterizar clínica y epidemiológicamente la toxocariasis ocular. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio observacional, descriptivo, de corte transversal con pacientes diagnosticados de toxocariasis ocular, atendidos en el Instituto Cubano de Oftalmología Ramón Pando Ferrer en el período de abril de 2019 a diciembre de 2022. Resultados: Predominó el sexo masculino (53,7 %) y el grupo etario de 0 a 10 años (73,1 %). El 56,1 % de los pacientes vivían en área rural. La convivencia con animales domésticos representó el 75,6 %. El síntoma más referido fue la disminución de la agudeza visual (48,8 %). La forma de presentación más frecuente fue el granuloma periférico de forma unilateral en ojo derecho (52,4 %). La complicación más observada fue el desprendimiento de retina (58,5 %). Conclusiones: La infección ocular por Toxocara spp. es una enfermedad prevenible e incapacitante que limita el desenvolvimiento educacional, laboral y de la vida en general de los pacientes afectados, particularmente la población infantil, el sexo masculino y los que residen en área rural en convivencia con animales domésticos, en especial perros.

Abstract Gastrointestinal parasitism by helminths and protozoa poses risks to animal and human health owing to clinical changes and transmission of potentially zoonotic agents. Thus, the present study aimed to verify the occurrence of gastrointestinal parasites in dogs from the municipality of Cuiabá, Mato Grosso, Brazil, using coproparasitological tests. From June 2021 to April 2022, faecal samples were collected from domestic dogs at the Veterinary Hospital and Animal Protection Shelters in the Cuiabá municipality. A semi-structured questionnaire was applied to the owners and those responsible for the shelters to analyse the factors associated with gastrointestinal parasitism. A total of 353 faecal samples were collected and subjected to parasitological flotation and sedimentation techniques. Data were analysed using the chi-squared test and exploratory factorial analysis. The occurrence of gastrointestinal parasitism was 22.66% and the parasites found alone or in mixed infections were Ancylostoma spp., Trichuris vulpis, Toxocara spp., Dipylidium caninum, Cystoisospora spp., Giardia duodenalis, and coccidia. It was concluded that the occurrence of gastrointestinal parasites in dogs is frequent, and the variables associated with these infections were source origin, breed, age, coexistence with other animals, and dull fur. agents Thus Grosso Brazil tests 202 2022 semistructured semi structured 35 techniques chisquared chi squared analysis 2266 22 66 22.66 spp spp. vulpis caninum duodenalis coccidia frequent origin breed age animals fur 20 3 226 2 6 22.6 22.

Resumo O parasitismo gastrointestinal por helmintos e protozoários apresenta riscos à saúde animal e humana devido às alterações clínicas e transmissão de agentes potencialmente zoonóticos. Assim, o presente estudo teve como objetivo verificar a ocorrência de parasitoses gastrointestinais em cães do município de Cuiabá, Mato Grosso, Brasil, utilizando-se exames coproparasitológicos. De junho de 2021 a abril de 2022, foram coletadas amostras fecais de cães domésticos no Hospital Veterinário e Abrigos de Proteção Animal do município de Cuiabá. Foi aplicado um questionário semiestruturado aos tutores e responsáveis pelos abrigos para analisar os fatores associados ao parasitismo gastrointestinal. Um total de 353 amostras fecais foram coletadas e submetidas às técnicas de flotação e sedimentação parasitológica. Os dados foram analisados, utilizando-se o teste Qui-quadrado e a análise fatorial exploratória. A ocorrência de parasitismo gastrointestinal foi de 22,66%, e os parasitos encontrados isoladamente ou em infecções mistas foram Ancylostoma spp., Trichuris vulpis, Toxocara spp., Dipylidium caninum, Cystoisospora spp., Giardia duodenalis e Coccidia. Conclui-se que a ocorrência de parasitoses gastrointestinais em cães é frequente, e as variáveis associadas a essas infecções foram procedência, raça, idade, convivência com outros animais e pelagem opaca. zoonóticos Assim Cuiabá Grosso Brasil utilizandose utilizando se coproparasitológicos 202 2022 35 parasitológica analisados Quiquadrado Qui quadrado exploratória 2266 22 66 22,66% spp spp. vulpis caninum Coccidia Concluise Conclui frequente procedência raça idade opaca 20 3 226 2 6 22,66 22,6 22,

Abstract 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. growth biomes agents Goiás Brazil 3 sedimentation recorded CI 95 95% 718 71 8 71.8 55.1–83.0 551830 55 1 83 0 28/39. 2839 28/39 . 28 28/39) Ancylostomatidae spp leonina hepaticum eggs detected however managed biology captivity feed 9 7 71. 55.1–83. 55183 5 283 28/3 2 55.1–83 5518 28/ 55.1–8 551 55.1– 55.1 55.

Resumo A crescente urbanização e a perda de hábitat para animais selvagens tem levado a uma maior interação entre ambientes selvagens e humanos, o que pode favorecer a disseminação de agentes infecciosos e parasitários. O presente estudo relata a ocorrência de parasitas gastrointestinais em mamíferos carnívoros em duas instituições de conservação no estado de Goiás, Brasil. Amostras fecais de 39 carnívoros adultos foram coletadas após a defecação espontânea e analisadas por flotação e sedimentação. Foram registrados os dados de estrutura e gestão de cada instituição. Prevalência de parasitismo, intervalo de confiança binomial (IC) a 95% e variáveis associadas a presença de animais de contato, tamanho do recinto e tipo de alimento foram registrados. A prevalência geral de parasitas gastrointestinais nas amostras analisadas foi de 71,8% (IC 55,1–83,0; 28/39). Foram detectados ovos de Ancylostomatidae, Toxocara spp., Toxascaris leonina, Strongyloides spp., Calodium hepaticum e de Trematoda e oocistos de Cystoisospora spp.. As condições ambientais não apresentaram correlação com a prevalência de parasitismo; entretanto, os parasitos encontrados podem ser manejados, considerando-se sua biologia, como controlar animais sinantrópicos e domésticos em cativeiro, e uso de alimentos livres de contaminantes. humanos parasitários Goiás Brasil 3 sedimentação instituição parasitismo IC 95 contato 718 71 8 71,8 55,1–83,0 551830 55 1 83 0 28/39. 2839 28/39 . 28 28/39) Ancylostomatidae spp spp. leonina entretanto manejados considerandose considerando se biologia cativeiro contaminantes 9 7 71, 55,1–83, 55183 5 283 28/3 2 55,1–83 5518 28/ 55,1–8 551 55,1– 55,1 55,

Abstract The objectives of this work were to investigate the occurrence of parasites in feces of cats, compare different coproparasitological techniques for their diagnosis and determine associations with parasitism. The samples were processed using three different coproparasitological techniques: centrifugal flotation in sucrose, centrifugal flotation in ZnSO4 and simple sedimentation. The parasitic association between parasitism and variables such as age, sex and fecal consistency was performed using the chi-square test or the G test with a significance level of 5%. A total of 237 samples were analyzed, of which 93 (39.2%) were positive, being Ancylostoma spp. (17.3%), Giardia intestinalis (12.2%), Platynosomum illiciens (8.0%), Cystoisospora spp. (6.3%), Toxoplasma gondii/ Hammondia hammondi (3.4%), Diphyllobothriidae (2.1%), Toxocara spp. (1.7%), Dipylidium caninum (1.3%) and Mesocestoides spp. (0.8%). In the parasitism association analysis, it was possible to verify a statistical difference in the age category for Cystoisospora spp. (p=0.001) observing a strong relationship between parasitism and young animals, the association with sex proved to be important for P. illiciens (p<0.001) with a higher frequency of parasitized females and fecal consistency revealed to be related to the parasites G. intestinalis (p=0.007) and P. illiciens (p=0.033) showing a higher number of positive animals for these parasites with normal fecal consistency. In conclusion, we observed a higher occurrence of Ancylostoma spp. and G. intestinalis in fecal samples from domestic cats received in routine diagnoses and the presence of other parasites with zoonotic potential, as well as the relationship of these diagnosed parasites with the categories sex, age and fecal consistency. sucrose ZnSO sedimentation chisquare chi square 5 5% 23 analyzed 9 39.2% 392 39 2 (39.2% spp 17.3%, 173 17.3% , 17 3 (17.3%) 12.2%, 122 12.2% 12 (12.2%) 8.0%, 80 8.0% 8 0 (8.0%) 6.3%, 63 6.3% 6 (6.3%) gondii 3.4%, 34 3.4% 4 (3.4%) 2.1%, 21 2.1% 1 (2.1%) 1.7%, 1.7% 7 (1.7%) 1.3% 13 (1.3% 0.8%. 08 0.8% . (0.8%) analysis p=0.001 p0001 p 001 (p=0.001 P p<0.001 (p<0.001 p=0.007 p0007 007 (p=0.007 p=0.033 p0033 033 (p=0.033 conclusion potential 39.2 (39.2 17.3 (17.3% 12.2 (12.2% 8.0 (8.0% 6.3 (6.3% 3.4 (3.4% 2.1 (2.1% 1.7 (1.7% 1.3 (1.3 0.8 (0.8% p=0.00 p000 00 (p=0.00 p<0.00 (p<0.00 p=0.03 p003 03 (p=0.03 39. (39. 17. (17.3 12. (12.2 8. (8.0 6. (6.3 3. (3.4 2. (2.1 1. (1.7 (1. 0. (0.8 p=0.0 p00 (p=0.0 p<0.0 (p<0.0 (39 (17. (12. (8. (6. (3. (2. (1 (0. p=0. p0 (p=0. p<0. (p<0. (3 (17 (12 (8 (6 (2 ( (0 p=0 (p=0 p<0 (p<0 p= (p= p< (p< (p

Resumo Os objetivos deste trabalho foram investigar a ocorrência de parasitos em fezes de gatos, comparar diferentes técnicas coproparasitológicas para o seu diagnóstico e determinar as associações com o parasitismo. As amostras foram processadas usando três diferentes técnicas coproparasitológicas: centrífugo-flutuação em sacarose, centrífugo-flutuação em ZnSO4 e sedimentação simples. A associação parasitária entre o parasitismo e variáveis, como idade, sexo e consistência fecal, foi realizada pelo teste de qui-quadrado ou teste de G com nível de significância de 5%. No total, foram analisadas 237 amostras, das quais 93 (39,2%) foram positivas, sendo diagnosticados os parasitos Ancylostoma spp. (17,3%), Giardia intestinalis (12,2%), Platynosomum illiciens (8,0%), Cystoisospora spp. (6,3%), Toxoplasma gondii/ Hammondia hammondi (3,4%), Diphyllobothriidae (2,1%), Toxocara spp. (1,7%), Dipylidium caninum (1,3%) e Mesocestoides spp. (0,8%). Na análise de associação entre o parasitismo e as outras variáveis, foi possível verificar diferença estatística na categoria idade para Cystoisospora spp. (p=0,001), observando forte relação entre o parasitismo e animais jovens. A associação com o sexo demonstrou ser importante para P. illiciens (p<0,001), com maior frequência de fêmeas parasitadas. E a consistência fecal revelou ter relação com os parasitos G. intestinalis (p=0,007) e P. illiciens (p=0,033), com maior frequência de fezes com consistência normal nos animais positivos para esses parasitos. Em conclusão, foi observada uma maior ocorrência de Ancylostoma spp. e G. intestinalis em amostras fecais de gatos domésticos, recebidas em diagnósticos de rotina e a presença de outros parasitos com potencial zoonótico, como também, a relação desses parasitos diagnosticados com as categorias sexo, idade e consistência fecal. centrífugoflutuação centrífugo flutuação sacarose ZnSO simples variáveis quiquadrado qui quadrado 5 5% total 23 9 39,2% 392 39 2 (39,2% positivas spp 17,3%, 173 17,3% , 17 3 (17,3%) 12,2%, 122 12,2% 12 (12,2%) 8,0%, 80 8,0% 8 0 (8,0%) 6,3%, 63 6,3% 6 (6,3%) gondii 3,4%, 34 3,4% 4 (3,4%) 2,1%, 21 2,1% 1 (2,1%) 1,7%, 1,7% 7 (1,7%) 1,3% 13 (1,3% 0,8%. 08 0,8% . (0,8%) p=0,001, p0001 p p=0,001 001 (p=0,001) jovens P p<0,001, p<0,001 (p<0,001) parasitadas p=0,007 p0007 007 (p=0,007 p=0,033, p0033 p=0,033 033 (p=0,033) conclusão domésticos zoonótico também 39,2 (39,2 17,3 (17,3% 12,2 (12,2% 8,0 (8,0% 6,3 (6,3% 3,4 (3,4% 2,1 (2,1% 1,7 (1,7% 1,3 (1,3 0,8 (0,8% p000 p=0,00 00 (p=0,001 p<0,00 (p<0,001 (p=0,00 p003 p=0,03 03 (p=0,033 39, (39, 17, (17,3 12, (12,2 8, (8,0 6, (6,3 3, (3,4 2, (2,1 1, (1,7 (1, 0, (0,8 p00 p=0,0 p<0,0 (p<0,00 (p=0,0 (p=0,03 (39 (17, (12, (8, (6, (3, (2, (1 (0, p0 p=0, p<0, (p<0,0 (p=0, (3 (17 (12 (8 (6 (2 ( (0 p=0 p<0 (p<0, (p=0 p= p< (p<0 (p= (p< (p

Abstract We investigated the occurrence of gastrointestinal parasites in dogs in rural areas of the municipality of Painel, Santa Catarina, Brazil. For this, 91 canine feces samples were collected from 82 farms between August, 2017 and January, 2018. These fecal materials were processed using the techniques of spontaneous sedimentation, centrifugation-floatation in zinc sulfate and Ziehl-Neelsen staining. A questionnaire in the form of an interview was administered to the dogs’ owner and information about the farm and the main care provided for the dogs was obtained. Among 91 sampled dogs, 27 (29.7%) were positive for at least one parasite species. Ancylostoma was the most prevalent genus (16.5%), followed by Giardia duodenalis (14.3%), Trichuris vulpis (6.6%), Toxocara canis (5.5%), Entamoeba spp. (4.8%), Cryptosporidium spp. (3.3%) and Taeniidae (1.1%). Most dogs do not receive veterinarian care and rarely received antiparasitic treatment. They were free to roam and had free access to animal remains and garbage, which was reflected in the significant associations with the occurrence of parasites that were found. We conclude that rural dogs harbor gastrointestinal parasites, but that their owners are unaware of the risks that these parasites can bring to human health. Painel Catarina Brazil this 9 8 August 201 January 2018 sedimentation centrifugationfloatation centrifugation floatation ZiehlNeelsen Ziehl Neelsen staining obtained 2 29.7% 297 29 7 (29.7% species 16.5%, 165 16.5% , 16 5 (16.5%) 14.3%, 143 14.3% 14 3 (14.3%) 6.6%, 66 6.6% 6 (6.6%) 5.5%, 55 5.5% (5.5%) spp 4.8%, 48 4.8% 4 (4.8%) 3.3% 33 (3.3% 1.1%. 11 1.1% . 1 (1.1%) treatment garbage found health 20 29.7 (29.7 16.5 (16.5% 14.3 (14.3% 6.6 (6.6% 5.5 (5.5% 4.8 (4.8% 3.3 (3.3 1.1 (1.1% 29. (29. 16. (16.5 14. (14.3 6. (6.6 5. (5.5 4. (4.8 3. (3. 1. (1.1 (29 (16. (14. (6. (5. (4. (3 (1. (2 (16 (14 (6 (5 (4 ( (1

Resumo Foi investigada a ocorrência de parasitos gastrintestinais com potencial zoonótico, em cães de área rural do munícipio de Painel, Santa Catarina, Brasil. Para isso, foram colhidas amostras de fezes de 91 cães de 82 propriedades rurais, no período de agosto de 2017 a janeiro de 2018. Este material fecal foi processado pelas técnicas de sedimentação espontânea, centrífugo-flutuação em sulfato de zinco e coloração pelo Ziehl-Neelsen. Um questionário em forma de entrevista foi aplicado aos tutores dos cães e foram obtidas informações sobre a propriedade rural e principais cuidados com os cães. Entre as 91 amostras de fezes, em 27 (29,7%) foi detectada a presença de parasitos gastrintestinais, sendo Ancylostoma o gênero mais prevalente (15 / 16,5%), seguido por Giardia duodenalis (13 / 14,3%), Trichuris vulpis (6 / 6,6%), Toxocara canis (5 / 5,5%), Entamoeba spp. (4 / 4,8%), Cryptosporidium spp. (3 / 3,3%) e Taeniidae (1 / 1,1%). A maioria dos cães não recebia cuidados veterinários ou antiparasitários. Concluiu-se que os cães de área rural albergam parasitos gastrintestinais, porém seus tutores desconhecem os riscos que esses parasitos podem trazer para a saúde humana. zoonótico Painel Catarina Brasil isso 9 8 rurais 201 2018 espontânea centrífugoflutuação centrífugo flutuação ZiehlNeelsen. ZiehlNeelsen Ziehl Neelsen. Neelsen Ziehl-Neelsen 2 29,7% 297 29 7 (29,7% 15 16,5%, 165 16,5% , 16 5 16,5%) 13 14,3%, 143 14,3% 14 3 14,3%) 6 ( 6,6%, 66 6,6% 6,6%) 5,5%, 55 5,5% 5,5%) spp 4 4,8%, 48 4,8% 4,8%) 3,3% 33 1 1,1%. 11 1,1% . 1,1%) antiparasitários Concluiuse Concluiu se humana 20 29,7 (29,7 16,5 14,3 6,6 5,5 4,8 3,3 1,1 29, (29, 16, 14, 6, 5, 4, 3, 1, (29 (2

Resumo As infecções parasitárias intestinais (IPIs) são uma das principais causas de morbidade em todo o mundo e têm sido descritas como importante problema de saúde pública. O presente estudo teve como objetivo determinar a infecção parasitária incomum e a identificação de fatores de risco em crianças de 4 a 12 anos em idade escolar residentes no distrito de Lower Dir, Paquistão entre 2018-2019. Das 400 crianças estudadas em que a taxa de prevalência geral de parasitas intestinais infecções foi de 71,75%, as crianças infectadas com parasita único representaram 67,94%, e 32,05% foram detectadas com poliparasitismo. Shistosoma japonicum (0,69%), Taxocara spp (0,69%) e Cryptosporidium (0,69%) foram identificados em crianças residentes nas áreas estudadas. Concluímos que há uma necessidade de campanhas em grande escala para criar consciência sobre saúde e higiene em crianças e de desenvolvimento de programas eficazes de controle da pobreza.

Abstract Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) are a major cause of morbidity worldwide and have been described as an important public health problem. The present study aimed to determine the un usual parasitic infection and identification of risk factors among 4-12years old school age children residing in lower dir district, Pakistan from 2018- 2019. Of the 400 children studied in which the overall prevalence rate for intestinal parasitic infections was found to be 71.75%. Children infected with single parasite accounted for 67.94% and 32.05% were detected with poly-parasitism. Shistosoma japonicum (0.69%), Taxocara spp (0.69%) and cryptosporidium (0.69%), were identified in children living in studied areas. We conclude that there is a need for mass scale campaigns to create awareness regarding health and hygiene in children and the need for development of effective poverty control programmes.

Resumo As tênias de importância zoonótica têm sido descritas como um dos principais problemas de saúde pública. A pesquisa atual teve como objetivo avaliar a prevalência de tênias entre crianças em idade escolar de 5 a 12 anos que residem no distrito de Lower Dir, Paquistão, de janeiro de 2019 a dezembro de 2019. Os métodos de preparação para montagem úmida em solução salina/iodo foram usados para exame de fezes. Os dados foram analisados usando métodos descritivos e estáticos apropriados. Das 400 crianças estudadas, 71,7% estavam infectadas com uma ou mais espécies de parasitas intestinais. Infecção única de espécies de cestóides foi encontrada em 69 indivíduos com prevalência de 17,2% e infecções parasitárias múltiplas foram identificadas em 19,7% (n = 79/400) indivíduos. As infecções múltiplas foram compostas por 10% (n = 40) dupla, 6,75% (n = 27) tripla e 3% (n = 12) quádrupla. Um total de 9 espécies de helmintos e uma espécie de infecção por protozoários. Entre os helmintos, Ascaris lumbricoides foi o mais prevalente 33,1% (n = 95), Taenia saginata 22,6% (n = 65), ancilóstomo 19,8% (n = 57), Hymenolepis nana 18,8% (n = 54), Enterobius vermicularis e Hymenolepis diminuta 1,39% (n = 4cada), Trichuris trichura 1,04% (n = 3), Toxocara spp 0,69% (n = 2) e Schistosoma japonicum 0,34% (n = 1). Uma espécie de protozoário foi Cryptosporidium spp 0,69% (n = 2) no estudo atual. No caso de A.lumbricoides, ancilostomíase, E.vermicularis, T.trichura, T.saginata, H.nana e H.diminuta, as crianças do sexo masculino com menos de 8 anos de idade estavam altamente infectadas. Outras infecções são relatadas na mesma prevalência, com ligeira diferença, se houver. Concluímos que há uma necessidade de campanhas em massa para criar consciência sobre saúde e higiene em crianças e a necessidade de desenvolvimento de programas eficazes de controle da pobreza, porque a desparasitação por si só não é adequada para controlar infecções parasitárias.

Abstract Tapeworms of zoonotic importance have been described as a leading public health problem. Current research was aim to assess the prevalence of tapeworms among 5-12years school children residing in district Lower Dir, Pakistan from January 2019-December 2019. The wet mount preparation in saline/iodine/methods were used for stool examination. Data was analyzed using appropriate descriptive, static methods. Of the 400 children studied 71.7% were infected with one or more species of intestinal parasites. Single infection of cestode species was found in 69 individuals with 17.2% prevalence and multiple parasitic infections were identified in 19.7% (n=79/400) individuals. The multiple infection were comprised as 10% (n=40) double, 6.75% (n=27) triple and 3% (n=12) quadruple. A total of 9 species of helminths and one species of protozoan infection. Among the helminths Ascaris lumbricoides was the most prevalent 33.1% (n=95), Taenia saginata 22.6% (n=65), hookworm 19.8% (n=57), Hymenolepis nana 18.8% (n=54), Enterobius vermicularis and Hymenolepis diminuta 1.39% (n=4each), Trichuris trichura 1.04% (n=3), Toxocara spp 0.69% (n=2) and Schistosoma japonicum 0.34% (n=1) were reported. One protozoan species was Cryptosporidium spp 0.69% (n=2) in current study. In case of A.lumbricoides, hookworm, E.vermicularis, T.trichura, T.saginata, H.nana and H.diminuta the male children of below 8 years of age were highly infected. Other infections are reported in the same prevalence with slight difference if any. We conclude that there is a need for mass scale campaigns to create awareness regarding health and hygiene in children and the need for development of effective poverty control programs because deworming alone is not adequate to control parasitic infections.

ABSTRACT The purpose of this investigation was to determine the presence and prevalence of blastocystosis, a zoonosis caused by Blastocystis sp in free-range hens in homes of different localities in southern Chile, simultaneously verify human infection in at least one locality, and identify other infections by intestinal parasites in birds. Fresh fecal samples from hens and humans were collected and preserved in PAF fixative and processed by the PAFS method combined with a flotation phase with zinc sulfate solution. Blastocystis sp was detected in half of the homes and the average prevalence was 14.2% in the total of localities being greater in the rural area and in the locality of Teupa (p<0.05). The prevalence in humans was higher than in hens in the town of Ñancul (p<0.05), where the parasite was present in both hosts in 4 of 7 households. The prevalence of infection by Entamoeba gallinarum and the presence of Toxocara spp eggs was similar between localities, but the prevalences of Eimeria spp, Capillariidae gen. spp and Heterakis gallinarum /Ascaridia galli showed differences between localities (p<0.05). Only in Valdivia were observed samples with eggs of Trichostrongylidae gen. spp. The presence of blastocystosis in chicken was detected for the first time in Chile, suggesting its potential transmission to humans. The presence of Toxocara spp eggs in bird faeces suggests that they could act as environmental dispersers.

RESUMEN El propósito de esta investigación fue determinar la presencia y prevalencia de blastocystosis, zoonosis causada por Blastocystis sp, en gallinas criadas libremente en domicilios de localidades del sur de Chile. Las muestras de heces frescas de aves y humanos fueron colectadas con el fijador PAF y procesadas mediante el método del PAFS combinado con una fase de flotación con solución de sulfato de zinc. En la mitad de los domicilios se detectó Blastocystis sp en las aves con una prevalencia promedio de 14.2%, siendo mayor en la zona rural y en la localidad de Teupa (p<0.05). La prevalencia en humanos fue mayor que en las gallinas de la localidad de Ñancul (p<0.05), donde el parásito estuvo presente en ambos hospederos en 4 de 7 domicilios. La prevalencia de infección por Entamoeba gallinarum y presencia de huevos de Toxocara spp fue similar entre localidades, pero las prevalencias de Eimeria spp, Capillariidae gen. spp y Heterakis gallinarum /Ascaridia galli mostraron diferencias entre localidades (p<0.05). Solo en Valdivia se registraron muestras con huevos de Trichostrongylidae gen. spp. La presencia de blastocystosis en gallinas se detecta por primera vez en Chile sugiriéndose su potencial trasmisión hacia los humanos. La presencia de huevos de Toxocara spp en las heces de las aves sugiere que estas podrían actuar como dispersores ambientales.

Resumo Endoparasitoses estão associadas à morbidade em gatos. Este estudo objetivou investigar a ocorrência de endoparasitos em gatos de diversas faixas etárias, na cidade do Rio de Janeiro. As amostras passaram por exploração macroscópica à procura de proglotes de cestódeos e analisadas individualmente por centrífugo-flutuação. Assim, amostras fecais foram obtidas de gatos domiciliados (n = 57) e de abrigos (n = 336). Endoparasitos foram detectados em 50,64% das amostras fecais. Nos gatos domiciliados e de abrigos, 21,05% e 55,66% estavam infectados por endoparasitos, respectivamente. Ancylostoma spp. (25%) e Strongyloides spp. (25%) foram os helmintos mais prevalentes encontrados nas amostras de fezes dos gatos domiciliados, seguido por Toxocara spp. (16,67%), Dypilidium caninum (16,67%), Cystoisospora spp. (8,33%) e a associação de Uncinaria spp. e Ancylostoma spp. (8,33%). Entre os gatos dos abrigos, Ancylostoma spp. estavam presentes em 29,41% das amostras, seguidos por Cystoisospora spp. (26,20%), Toxocara spp. (16,58%) e as associações de parasitos Cystoisospora spp. + Toxocara spp. (8,02%), Ancylostoma spp. + Toxocara spp. (11,76%), Cystoisospora spp. + Ancylostoma spp (3,74%), Cystoisospora spp. + Toxocaraspp. + Ancylostoma spp. (3,21%) e Dipylidium caninum + Ancylostoma spp. (0,53%). Cystoisospora spp. foi o único protozoário encontrado. A presença de endoparasitos reforça a necessidade de cuidados veterinários preventivos e testes coproparasitológicos de rotina para evitar sua disseminação.

Abstract Endoparasitic infections are associated with morbidity in cats. This study aimed to investigate the occurrence of endoparasites among cats of different life stages in the city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The samples were analyzed individually by macroscopic exploration for proglottids and centrifugal-flotation. Stool samples were obtained from household cats (n = 57) and shelter cats (n = 336). Endoparasites were detected in 50.64% of the samples. Among household and shelter cats, 21.05% and 55.66% were infected with endoparasites, respectively. In household cats, the most prevalent endoparasites were Ancylostoma spp. (in 25.0%) and Strongyloides spp. (in 25.0%), followed by Toxocara spp. (in 16.67%), Dipylidium caninum (in 16.67%), Cystoisospora spp. (in 8.33%), and Uncinaria spp. + Ancylostoma spp. (in 8.33%). In shelter cats, the most prevalent endoparasite was Ancylostoma spp. (in 29.41%), followed by Cystoisospora spp. (in 26.20%) and Toxocara spp. (in 16.58%), as well as Cystoisospora spp. + Toxocara spp. (in 8.02%); Ancylostoma spp. + Toxocara spp. (in 11.76%); Cystoisospora spp. + Ancylostoma spp. (in 3.74%); Cystoisospora spp. + Toxocara spp. + Ancylostoma spp. (in 3.21%); and Dipylidium caninum + Ancylostoma spp. (in 0.53%). Endoparasitic infections in cats underscore the need for preventive veterinary care and routine coproparasitologic tests.

Resumo O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a contaminação ambiental por ovos de helmintos com potencial zoonótico, diagnosticados em fezes caninas depositadas nas proximidades de escolas primárias. Setenta e nove amostras de fezes foram colhidas em 28 escolas municipais localizadas em cinco bairros da cidade de Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul (RS), Brasil. As amostras foram processadas pela técnica de Willis-Mollay e analisadas em microscópio óptico (40X), para identificar quaisquer parasitos presentes. Todos os bairros foram positivos e 74,7% das amostras apresentaram um ou mais gêneros de helmintos. O agente com maior prevalência foi Ancylostoma spp. (93,2%), seguido por Trichuris spp. (18,6%), Toxocara spp. (11,9%) e Toxascaris (1,7%). Esses dados mostram que há necessidade de maior cuidado no controle desses helmintos com potencial zoonótico, incluindo a posse responsável dos animais e atividades diárias de limpeza e colheita de fezes de cães nas proximidades das escolas, porque esses são locais onde as crianças brincam e estudam.

Abstract The aim of this study was to evaluate environmental contamination by helminth eggs with zoonotic potential that were found in dog feces in the vicinity of elementary schools. Seventy-nine samples of dog feces were collected from 28 municipal schools located in five neighborhoods in Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul (RS), Brazil. The samples were processed using the Willis-Mollay technique and analyzed using an optical microscope (40X), to identify any parasite eggs present. All neighborhoods were positive and 74.7% of the samples exhibited one or more helminth genera. The agent with the highest prevalence was Ancylostoma spp. (93.2%), followed by Trichuris spp. (18.6%), Toxocara spp. (11.9%) and Toxascaris (1.7%). These data show that there is a need for greater care towards controlling these helminths with zoonotic potential, including responsible pet ownership and daily activities to clean and collect dog feces in the vicinity of schools, because these are places where children play and study.

Resumen La contaminación de suelos por parásitos gastrointestinales representa un problema mundial y un riesgo a la salud. Objetivo. Determinar la presencia de parásitos en heces de perros en los parques públicos del área. Materiales y métodos. Se recolectaron muestras de heces en 27 parques públicos de Metepec y Toluca Estado de México, mismos que se procesaron con 3 técnicas parasitológicas; 81.4% de los parques públicos resultaron positivos a parásitos gastrointestinales, con una frecuencia global de muestras del 16.5%. El porcentaje de parasitosis con potencial zoonótico fue de 81.3%; Toxocara spp, Ancylostoma spp y Giardia spp fueron las especies zoonóticas identificadas. Conclusiones. Los resultados indican que los parques de la zona conurbada de Toluca representan un problema de salud pública importante al ser una fuente de parásitos gastrointestinales zoonóticos de perro.

Abstract Soil contamination by gastrointestinal parasites represents a global problem and a health risk. Objective. Determine the presence of parasites in dog feces in public parks in the area. Materials and methods. Stool samples were collected in 27 public parks in Metepec and Toluca Estado de México, which were processed with 3 parasitological techniques; 81.4% of public parks were positive for gastrointestinal parasites, with an overall sample rate of 16.5%. The percentage of parasitosis with zoonotic potential was 81.3%; Toxocara spp, Ancylostoma spp and Giardia spp were the zoonotic species identified. Conclusions. The results indicate that parks in the conurbed area of Toluca represent a major public health problem as they are a source of zoonotic gastrointestinal parasites of dogs.

The aim of this study was to determine the contamination of public parks of La Molina district in Lima with eggs of Toxocara spp and its relationship with the categorization of the parks (unfriendly, friendly and not very friendly) within the Health Surveillance Programme of Parks and Gardens, prepared by the Department of Food Hygiene and Zoonoses of DIGESA Ministry of Health (MINSA). The study was of descriptive type, evaluating 131 public parks between August 2014 and April 2016. Representative samples of soil and grass (1-2 kg) per park were collected using the double W technique and analysed by the techniques of sedimentation and flotation with supersaturated NaCl solution. The presence of at least one Toxocara spp egg in the sample was considered positive. The categorization of the parks was carried out by La Molina Municipality staff, based on three criteria (adequate infrastructure, environment and sanitary risks) according to the «Environmental Sanitary Assessment Card for Parks and Gardens» of DIGESA-MINSA. Only one park was positive to eggs of Toxocara spp, representing a prevalence of 0.76%. In parallel, five parks were considered unfriendly, 75 as friendly and 51 as not very friendly, where the positive park was a not very friendly one. It was not possible to relate both results due to the small number of positive parks. The low percentage of contaminated parks was probably due to the implementation by the municipality of the Sanitary Vigilance Programme of Parks and Gardens (responsible tenure, excreta collection, etc.), as well as the constant improvements made since 2011 and the frequent deworming campaigns and informative talks to pet owners.

El objetivo del estudio fue determinar la contaminación de los parques públicos del distrito de La Molina, Lima, con huevos de Toxocara spp y su relación con la categorización de los parques (no amigables, amigables y poco amigables) dentro del Programa de Vigilancia Sanitaria de Parques y Jardines, elaborado por la Dirección de HigieneAlimentaria y Zoonosis de la DIGESA Ministerio de Salud (MINSA). El estudio fue de tipo descriptivo, evaluándose 131 parques públicos entre agosto de 2014 y abril de 2016. Muestras representativas de tierra y césped (1-2 kg) por parque fueron colectadas mediante la técnica de la doble W y analizadas mediante las técnicas de sedimentación y flotación con solución sobresaturada de NaCl. Se consideró como parque positivo la presencia de al menos un huevo de Toxocara spp en la muestra. La categorización de los parques fue realizada por personal de La Municipalidad de La Molina, con base a tres criterios (infraestructura adecuada, ambiente y riesgos sanitarios), según la «Ficha de Evaluación Sanitaria Ambiental de Parques y Jardines» del DIGESA-MINSA. Solo un parque resultó positivo a huevos de Toxocara spp, representando una prevalencia de 0.76%. Paralelamente, cinco parques fueron considerados como no amigables, 75 como amigables y 51 como poco amigables; perteneciendo a este último grupo el parque positivo. No se pudo relacionar ambos resultados por el escaso número de parques positivos. El bajo porcentaje de parques contaminados se debe probablemente a la implementación por el municipio del Programa de Vigilancia Sanitaria de Parques y Jardines (tenencia responsable, recojo de excretas, etc.), así como de las constantes mejoras realizadas desde el 2011 y por las frecuentes campañas de desparasitación y charlas informativas a los dueños de las mascotas.

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of intestinal parasites and the risk factors associated with zoonotic transmission in dogs with owner in the rural town of Retes, Huaral district (Lima, Peru). A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out, where fecal samples of 47 dogs were collected and processed by simple direct methods, Willis-Molloy flotation technique and the rapid sedimentation technique modified by Lumbreras. The morphometric identification of the parasitic species was also done. The statistical analysis was performed by bivariate analysis with Chi square distribution. The prevalence of enteroparasitosis was 31.9%. Dipylidium caninum (12.8%), Toxocara canis (10.6%), Ancylostoma spp (4.3%), Cystoisospora canis (4.3%), Taenia spp (2.1%) were found. Monoparasitism was 76.7%, followed by biparasitism (13.4%) between helminths and protozoa. The feeding site was the only risk factor associated with intestinal parasitism (OR=7.11, X2=5.23, p=0.03). Dog’s zoonotic helminths D. caninum, T. canis and Ancylostoma spp, given the prevalence found, could easily be transmitted to humans because they are occupying the same habitat in the rural area of Huaral.

El objetivo del presente estudio fue determinar la prevalencia de parásitos intestinales y los factores de riesgo asociados con la transmisión zoonótica en perros con dueño de la localidad rural de Retes, distrito de Huaral (Lima, Perú). Se realizó un estudio descriptivo de corte transversal, donde se recolectaron muestras fecales de 47 perros y fueron procesadas mediante los métodos directo simple, flotación de Willis-Molloy y sedimentación rápida modificada por Lumbreras. Así mismo, se hizo la identificación morfométrica de las especies parasitarias. El análisis estadístico se realizó mediante análisis bivariado con distribución Chi cuadrado. La prevalencia de enteroparasitosis fue de 31.9%. Se halló Dipylidium caninum (12.8%), Toxocara canis (10.6%), Ancylostoma spp (4.3%), Cystoisospora canis (4.3%), Taenia spp (2.1%). El monoparasitismo fue de 76.7%, seguido de biparasitismo (13.4%) entre helmintos y protozoarios. Se halló como único factor de riesgo asociado al parasitismo intestinal el lugar de alimentación (OR=7.11; X2=5.23; p=0.03). Los helmintos zoonóticos del perro D. caninum, T. canis y Ancylostoma spp, dada la prevalencia encontrada, podrían transmitirse fácilmente al ser humano pues se encuentran ocupando el mismo hábitat en la zona rural de Huaral.

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of intestinal parasites in puppies marketed in the city of Puno and to evaluate the possible association of the breed type and type of commercialization (formal, informal) with the presentation of intestinal parasitism. Faecal samples were taken from 172 puppies, without distinction of sex and breed type, between 1 and 4 months of age, from the informal market, as well as from veterinary centres and pet stores (formal). Samples were processed by direct examination and the flotation concentration technique with 33% zinc sulphate solution (GE 1.18). Of the 172 samples, 90 showed one or more eggs, cysts or oocysts of parasites, representing a prevalence of 52.3%. The prevalence of intestinal parasites in purebred and mestizo puppies were 44.2 and 60.5%, respectively, and of puppies from informal and formal trade were 66.3 and 38.4% respectively. The species found were Dipylidium caninum, Ancylostoma caninum, Toxascaris leonina, Toxocara canis, Trichuris spp, Giardia spp, Isospora spp and Sarcocystis spp. There were 11 cases of bi-parasitism, one of triparasitism and one of tetra-parasitism. The type of commercialization was associated with the presence of intestinal parasitism (p<0.05), but not with the breed.

El objetivo del presente estudio fue determinar la prevalencia de parásitos intestinales en cachorros comercializados en la ciudad de Puno y evaluar la posible asociación de las variables grupo racial y tipo de comercialización (formal, informal) con la presentación de parasitismo intestinal. Se tomaron muestras fecales de 172 cachorros entre 1 y 4 meses de edad, sin distinción de sexo y grupo racial, del mercado informal, así como de veterinarias y tiendas de mascotas (formal). Las muestras fueron procesadas por las técnicas de examen directo y de concentración por flotación con solución de sulfato de zinc al 33% (GE 1.18). De las 172 muestras, 90 evidenciaron formas parasitarias (huevos, quistes u ooquistes), representando una prevalencia de 52.3%. Las prevalencias de parásitos intestinales en cachorros de raza pura y mestizos fueron de 44.2 y 60.5%, respectivamente, y de cachorros del comercio informal y formal fueron de 66.3 y 38.4%, respectivamente. Las especies encontradas fueron Dipylidium caninum, Ancylostoma caninum, Toxascaris leonina, Toxocara canis, Trichuris spp, Giardia spp, Isospora spp y Sarcocystis spp. Se observaron 11 casos de bi-parasitismo, uno de tri-parasitismo y uno de tetra-parasitismo. El tipo de comercialización estuvo asociado a la presencia de parasitismo intestinal (p<0.05), mas no el grupo racial.

ABSTRACT Public parks are leisure environments widely used by both, adults and children, often accompained by their pets. Soil contamination of these environments by enteric viruses and intestinal parasites occurs through these animals feces. The aim of this work was to detect Carnivore protoparvovirus 1 (CPV-1) and different species of Mastadenovirus in soils samples from a park located in a medium-sized city in Brazil and evaluate the presence of helminth eggs and larvae in 18 points of a public park soil samples, as well as feces found on this site during six months. Parasitological analyzes were conducted through flotation and sedimentation techniques, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used for viral detection. Of the 216 soil and 16 feces samples, 49% (106/216) and 12% (2/16) were positivefor nematodes larvae, respectively, through sedimentation techniques. Toxocara spp eggs were found in one soil sample and one feces sample, Trichuris spp eggs were found in only one feces sample and Hookworms eggs were found in four soil samples. After reconstruction work in the streets near the park, 30% (64/216) of the samples were positive for Human Mastadenovirus C (HAdV-C), 1.4% (3/216) for HAdV-E and 0.4% (1/216) for Canine Mastadenovirus A (CAdV-A). The parasitic forms found in this study have demonstrated that the contamination of the park’s soil pose a threat to human and animal health. This was the first study to report the presence of HAdVs and CAdVs in soil samples.