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Southeast Asia (SEA) faces persistent gaps in regional understanding and control of ticks and tick-borne diseases (TBDs) despite recent advances (2023-2025). The second international symposium on ticks and TBDs in SEA (Singapore, August 2025), following the inaugural 2023 meeting in Cambodia, served as a catalyst for regional exchange that informed this perspective. SEA's ecological and host diversity supports complex tick-host-pathogen networks, yet evidence remains fragmented due to uneven sampling that has largely focused on livestock and peri-urban environments. Key constraints include limited taxonomic resolution driven by outdated or incomplete identification keys, under-sampling of soft ticks (Argasidae), and the absence of harmonized, open-access regional reference resources (including DNA barcodes and MALDI-TOF MS spectral databases). While MALDI-TOF MS, proteomics, AI-assisted identification, and next-generation sequencing/metagenomics are increasingly applied, their broader regional uptake is limited by the absence of harmonized, open-access reference resources (including DNA barcodes and MALDI-TOF MS spectral databases). Broad ecological surveys and integrated animal and human surveillance remain limited, and vector competence studies are constrained by the scarcity of SEA-derived tick colonies and cell lines. Regional data and recent findings (2024-2026) confirm circulation of multiple TBPs (including Anaplasma, Babesia, Borrelia, Coxiella, Ehrlichia, Rickettsia, and Theileria) and highlight emerging viral findings, including southward reports of Bandavirus dabieense. Human infestations and non-communicable tick bite outcomes (e.g., tick paralysis and alpha-gal syndrome) are recognized but remain under-reported due to low clinical awareness and limited diagnostics. Importantly, the diagnostic chain is further disrupted by missed/insufficient specimen collection at the point of care, and by constrained capacity to identify (especially immature) ticks to species level-limitations compounded by the absence of harmonized, open-access regional reference resources. The symposium identified six priorities: (1) full completion and regional validation of tick identification keys for adults (in progress) and immatures (to be initiated), plus an open-access DNA barcode library anchored by curated, voucher-based collections from all SEA countries; (2) harmonization of molecular and proteomic diagnostic platforms, including expansion of regional MALDI-TOF MS and NGS protocols and reference databases; (3) development of tick colonies and cell lines from locally prevalent species to support vector competence, vaccine, and acaricide testing; (4) expansion of One Health surveillance with enhanced ecological sampling at wildlife-livestock-human interfaces; (5) establishment of open-access, region-wide data platforms for integrated tick, TBP, and ecological metadata sharing; and (6) sustained investment in human resources, training, and policy advocacy to raise research and public health visibility of ticks and TBDs.
The 2023 iteration of the Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study (GBD) estimated prevalence, incidence, and health burden for 375 diseases and injuries, including 12 mental disorders. We assess past, current, and emerging trends in the prevalence and burden of mental disorders across sexes and age groups, for 21 regions, 204 countries and territories, and by Socio-demographic Index (SDI) quintile, from 1990 to 2023. Mental disorders included in GBD 2023 were anxiety disorders, major depressive disorder, dysthymia, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, autism spectrum disorders, conduct disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, idiopathic developmental intellectual disability, and a residual category of other mental disorders. A literature review identified epidemiological data for each disorder. These were analysed via a Bayesian meta-regression to estimate prevalence by disorder, sex, age, location, and year. Disorder-specific prevalence was multiplied by disability weights representing the severity of health loss associated with each disorder to estimate years lived with disability (YLDs). Deaths due to anorexia nervosa were assessed with a Cause of Death Ensemble modelling strategy to estimate deaths by sex, age, location, and year, and then multiplied by the standard life expectancy at age of death to estimate years of life lost (YLLs). YLDs equalled disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) for all mental disorders except anorexia nervosa (the only mental disorder considered as an underlying cause of death in GBD), for which DALYs represented the sum of YLDs and YLLs. We presented prevalence, deaths, YLDs, YLLs, and DALYs as counts, age-specific rates per 100 000 population, and age-standardised rates per 100 000 population. We estimated 1·17 billion (95% uncertainty interval 1·06-1·31) prevalent cases of mental disorders globally in 2023, equivalent to an age-standardised prevalence rate of 14 210·7 cases (12 849·5-15 940·1) per 100 000 population. These estimates represented a 95·5% (75·0-121·2) increase in prevalent cases and 24·2% (11·4-41·4) increase in age-standardised prevalence rate between 1990 and 2023. All mental disorders showed increases in prevalent cases between 1990 and 2023, while notable increases were seen in age-standardised prevalence rates for anxiety disorders, major depressive disorder, dysthymia, anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, schizophrenia, and conduct disorder. There were an estimated 171 million (127-228) DALYs due to mental disorders globally across sex and age in 2023, equivalent to an age-standardised DALY rate of 2070·5 DALYs (1519·1-2750·5) per 100 000 population. Mental disorders contributed to 6·1% (4·8-7·6) of all-cause DALYs in 2023, making them the fifth leading cause of global DALYs (up from 12th in 1990). DALYs were almost entirely composed of YLDs. Mental disorders were the leading cause of YLDs in 2023 (up from second in 1990), explaining 17·3% (14·8-20·6) of all-cause global YLDs. Leading causes of mental disorder DALYs were anxiety disorders (ranked 11th among the 304 diseases and injuries at Level 4 of the GBD cause hierarchy), major depressive disorder (15th), and schizophrenia (41st). Globally in 2023, mental disorder age-standardised DALY rates were higher among females (2239·6 [1643·7-3014·1] per 100 000) than among males (1900·2 [1399·8-2510·8] per 100 000), and peaked in the 15-19 years age group (2617·3 [1850·6-3696·8] per 100 000). All locations showed increased mental disorder DALY rates in 2023 compared with 1990, ranging across countries and territories from 1302·4 (952·7-1683·7) per 100 000 in Viet Nam to 3555·8 (2661·9-4715·0) per 100 000 in the Netherlands. Across SDI quintiles, DALY rates ranged from 1853·0 (1352·1-2469·3) per 100 000 for middle SDI to 2184·1 (1606·1-2890·3) per 100 000 for high SDI. A significant health burden was imposed by mental disorders in all countries and territories in 2023, irrespective of the health resources available. In some instances, this burden has increased over time and is unevenly distributed across populations. Stronger surveillance systems, particularly in low-income and middle-income countries, are required. Additionally, we need more coordinated and inclusive policies to reduce the burden through early treatment and prevention, tailored to sex and age differences across locations. Responding to the mental health needs of our global population, especially those most vulnerable, is an obligation, not a choice. Gates Foundation, Queensland Health, and University of Queensland.
Endoparasites are a major health concern affecting equine productivity and welfare worldwide. Understanding farmers' knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) toward parasite control is critical for designing effective interventions. This study assessed KAP levels among farmers in South Gondar Zone, Northwest Ethiopia, and identified factors associated with good KAP. A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 150 farmers. KAP scores were initially categorized into three levels (low, moderate, and high) and analyzed using chi-square (χ2) tests to explore bivariate associations. For logistic regression analyses, KAP outcomes were dichotomized into good and poor categories. Univariable and multivariable binary logistic regression models were used to identify independent predictors of good KAP, with p ≤ 0.05 considered statistically significant. The study employed representative sampling across districts, a pre-tested questionnaire, and comprehensive adjustment using multivariable logistic regression to enhance the reliability of the findings. Among 150 respondents, 120 (80%) were male and 30 (20%) female. The majority were adults (50.7%), followed by young (34.7%) and old (14.7%) age groups. Nearly half of the participants were with no formal education (49.3%), 44% had primary education, and 6.7% had secondary education. Farmers were evenly distributed across three districts (Dera, Fogera, and Libokemkem), and most (n = 123, 82%) lived within 1-10 km of a veterinary facility. Overall, 52.7% of farmers demonstrated good knowledge, 66.7% exhibited a positive attitude, and 91.3% reported good practices toward equine endoparasites. Multivariable binary logistic regression analysis using SPSS (v. 27) revealed that, for knowledge, adults (AOR = 0.12, 95% CI: 0.03-0.50) and older farmers (AOR = 0.10, 95% CI: 0.02-0.55) were less likely to have good knowledge compared to young farmers, whereas educated farmers were substantially more likely to have good knowledge (AOR = 15.8, 95% CI: 3.4-73.8). Regarding attitude, adults (AOR = 0.015, 95% CI: 0.002-0.12) and older farmers (AOR = 0.013, 95% CI: 0.001-0.12) were less likely to have a positive attitude, while education (AOR = 18.5, 95% CI: 5.0-68.0) and residence in Libokemkem district (AOR = 3.80, 95% CI: 1.36-10.57) were positively associated with good attitude. For practice, good practices were more likely among adult farmers (AOR = 54.5, 95% CI: 4.8-620), but less likely among females (AOR = 0.18, 95% CI: 0.04-0.78) and farmers living >10 km from veterinary services (AOR = 0.06, 95% CI: 0.004-0.95). Age and education were key determinants of farmers' KAP toward equine endoparasite control. Hence, targeted educational interventions focusing on different age and education groups could improve parasite management practices in this region.
Foodborne diseases are important causes of illness and death. The first estimates of their burden were published by WHO in 2015. We updated WHO estimates of the global, regional, subregional, and national foodborne disease burden caused by 42 infectious and chemical hazards in 2021, including time trends for 2000-21. We provide a high-level summary of foodborne disease burden, expressed as incidence, deaths, and disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs). Data for burden estimation were provided from a WHO-commissioned series of systematic reviews on the incidence, aetiology, sequelae, and case fatality or mortality of the hazards. Data were analysed using hierarchical meta-regression modelling with geographical clustering and a global linear time trend, disease-specific computational models, and uncertainty propagation through Monte Carlo simulations to calculate 95% uncertainty intervals. Attribution to foodborne transmission was principally based on a structured expert judgement process. Economic impact was measured as lost productivity. For 2021, foodborne transmission of the 42 hazards caused 866 million (95% uncertainty interval 680-1090) illnesses, 1·52 million (0·783-2·51) deaths, and 57·1 million (39·4-81·1) DALYs. Inorganic arsenic, lead, and non-typhoidal Salmonella enterica (diarrhoeal and invasive disease) resulted in the most DALYs. The greatest burden of foodborne disease was in the African and South-East Asia regions. The incidence in children younger than 5 years was 2·7 times higher than in people aged 5 years or older, resulting in 4·3 times the rate of DALYs. The total burden from all hazards decreased over time. In 2021, these 42 hazards resulted in productivity losses of US$310 billion in nominal terms, and US$647 billion after adjusting for purchasing power parity. Foodborne diseases causes a burden similar to that from tuberculosis, HIV and AIDS, or malaria. The high burden of both communicable and non-communicable foodborne diseases requires countries to prioritise developing strategies to improve the safety of the food supply. WHO.
Anaplasma spp. and piroplasmids are tick-borne pathogens with worldwide distribution, affecting domestic animals, wildlife, and humans. Although several tick-borne species have relevance in animal health and can cause economic losses in livestock farms, little is known about the epidemiological situation in small ruminants in Portugal. We aimed to assess the infection prevalence, molecular characterization, co-infection patterns and risk factors of Anaplasma spp. and piroplasmids in sheep and goat farms from the Alentejo region (south-central Portugal). A total of 290 blood samples collected in 2019 were analyzed using conventional PCR assays targeting partial fragments of the 16S rRNA and RpoB genes for Anaplasma spp., and 18S rRNA gene for piroplasmids. The results confirmed a wide distribution and a high prevalence of Anaplasma spp. (34.5%, 100/290) and piroplasmids (25.2%, 73/290). The following species were identified: Anaplasma ovis (n = 31), "Candidatus Anaplasma corsicanum" (n = 1), Theileria ovis (n = 21), and Theileria capreoli (n = 1). Co-infections occurred in 11.0% (32/290) of animals, and the most common association was A. ovis/T. ovis (n = 20), followed by "Candidatus A. corsicanum"/T. ovis (n = 1) and A. ovis/T. capreoli (n = 1). The remaining 10 co-infected individuals harbored A. ovis and an uncharacterized piroplasmid. This study represents the first molecular detection of "Candidatus A. corsicanum" in Portugal. Risk factors positively associated with Anaplasma infection were age and breed, while piroplasmid prevalence was significantly higher in sheep and crossbred animals. The presence of mixed infections may influence the pathogenicity of existing pathogens and complicate both diagnosis and treatment, potentially leading to considerable economic impacts on the livestock sector. These findings highlight the need for an effective monitoring system to enhance disease surveillance.
Bovine neosporosis, caused by Neospora caninum, is a major cause of reproductive disorders and economic loss in dairy cattle worldwide. This study evaluated the association between N. caninum serostatus and reproductive performance in Girolando cows in a closed herd in Valença, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. A total of 144 cows were analyzed between September 2023 and April 2024. Blood samples were collected and tested for N. caninum antibodies using ELISA and confirmed by an indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT). Reproductive indices, including the number of services per conception, service period, calving interval, reproductive efficiency, conception rates at first and second services, pregnancy rate within two services, pregnancy rate at 150 days in lactation, and abortion rate, were evaluated over a four-year period in multiparous cows. ELISA screening of a subset of 49 animals revealed a seroprevalence of 44.9%, whereas IFAT confirmed that 29.9% of the total herds were seropositive. Seropositive cows required more services per conception (2.7 ± 0.2 vs. 2.1 ± 0.08; P = 0.05) and had a longer service period (142.3 ± 11.5 vs. 107.9 ± 4.8 days; P = 0.01) compared to seronegative cows. Trends were observed for longer calving intervals (413.6 ± 10.1 vs. 387.7 ± 5.5 days; P = 0.07) and reduced reproductive efficiency (91.2% vs. 96.1%; P = 0.07) in seropositive animals. Conception rates at the second service and pregnancy rates within the two services were higher in seronegative cows (60.3% vs. 42.4%, P = 0.04; 76.4% vs. 61.2%, P = 0.02, respectively). No significant differences were observed in first-service conception, pregnancy rate at 150 d of lactation, or abortion rate. Abortion occurred primarily around mid-gestation (mean 148 days). Our findings indicate that seropositivity for N. caninum is associated with poorer reproductive performance in Girolando cows by increasing service per conception and prolonging the service period, ultimately reducing herd efficiency. Although abortion rates were not significantly different, management practices and multifactorial causes likely influenced the outcomes. This study provides herd-level evidence on the association between N. caninum infection and reproductive performance in Girolando cows and underscores the importance of monitoring and controlling neosporosis to support reproductive management in dairy herds. Future research should prioritize vaccine development, effective therapies, and management strategies to mitigate the economic and reproductive effects of neosporosis.
Toxocara spp. are zoonotic parasites that cause toxocariasis in humans. In Vietnam, information on these parasites is fragmented, and many local reports remain inaccessible to the international research community. This study conducted a comprehensive literature review to assess the distribution and prevalence, and to estimate the true prevalence of Toxocara spp. in humans, dogs, and cats in Vietnam. The true prevalence was estimated using a Bayesian approach based on diagnostic test characteristics used in each published study. Of 766 studies screened, 58 studies were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis, including 109,597 humans, 8067 dogs, and 1034 cats. The pooled true prevalence was estimated at 38.5% (95% CI: 31.4-45.5) in humans, 42.3% (95% CI: 30.3-54.2) in dogs, and 50.1% (95% CI: 26.7-73.5) in cats. While numerous studies reported seroprevalence of Toxocara spp. antibodies in humans, data on Toxocara spp. in dogs and cats were limited. ELISA was employed in all included human studies to detect antibodies against Toxocara spp. larvae in humans, and the estimated true prevalence was largely consistent with the apparent prevalence, reflecting the test's assumed accuracy rather than definitive proof. Microscopic examination in dogs and cats likely underestimates the parasite prevalence due to limited sensitivity. The high prevalence of Toxocara spp. in dogs and cats highlights a significant public health concern, particularly given the inadequate management of dog and cat feces. These findings highlight the need for One Health strategies to control Toxocara spp. and reduce its burden in Vietnam.
Equine piroplasmosis (EP) is a tick-borne disease caused by the blood parasites Theileria equi, Theileria haneyi, and Babesia caballi transmitted primarily by hard ticks (Ixodidae). The clinical courses of EP range from asymptomatic to severe, and chronic infections for several years support the transmission among hosts. Over a period of two years, blood and fecal samples were taken from horses (n = 18) on a single farm in eastern Austria, starting with the first confirmed case of T. equi infection. Hard ticks (n = 1525 of Ixodes ricinus, Dermacentor reticulatus and Haemaphysalis concinna) were collected by flagging on the horses' pastures. For detection of infections with piroplasms, PCR on the 18S rRNA gene with subsequent sequence analysis and antibody detection with a commercially available cELISA were performed. Initially, two horses showed clinical signs and tested positive for T. equi. Of the remaining 16 horses, 12 were positive for T. equi by PCR and serology at the first sampling timepoint without clinical symptoms. In the second year, 12/14 positive horses remained positive, two were unavailable. Additionally, two horses negative in the first year were then positive for T. equi by PCR and serology, leaving only one horse negative which had had no contact to the others and was kept on a separate pasture. None of the fecal samples was positive for piroplasms. Six out of 363 ticks flagged on three different pastures in the first year (four H. concinna, one I. ricinus, one D. reticulatus) and eight out of 196 D. reticulatus adults removed from an infected positive horse in the first year were T. equi-positive by PCR. The resulting sequences all belonged to T. equi genotype E. Here we report the occurrence and spread of T. equi on a horse farm in Austria, a country not considered endemic for EP but with sporadic cases documented in recent years. Due to the occurrence of T. equi on the farm and likelihood of lifelong infections, this pathogen will presumably remain in this herd and in Austria and might spread further due to the presence of putative vector ticks. Owners and veterinarians should be made aware of the risk of infection and the occurrence of clinical symptoms. Horses should be tested prior to import from endemic areas. Further studies are needed to identify risk areas, clarify the vector competence of the found tick species and develop strategies to mitigate the risk of endemisation.
The popularity of sand sports has increased significantly, driven by their recreational appeal combined with health benefits. However, because these sports are typically played barefoot in areas where dogs and cats may roam freely, the risk of human exposure to zoonotic parasites-such as the causative agents of cutaneous and visceral larva migrans (Ancylostoma caninum, A. braziliense, and Strongyloides stercoralis)-increases. This study aimed to investigate the presence of potentially zoonotic helminth larvae in the sand of public sports courts in the municipality of Ilhéus, Bahia, Brazil, a coastal region with high tourist influx. Thirty-eight courts were analyzed during the winter (August 2022) and summer (February 2023), with sand samples collected at three depths (surface, 10 cm, and 20 cm). Samples were processed using the modified Rugai method and examined via light microscopy for morphological identification of the larvae. Statistical analyses to identify environmental and seasonal factors associated with the parasites included chi-square, Fisher's exact, and generalized linear model (GLM) tests. Of the courts evaluated, 18 (47.3%) tested positive for zoonotic helminths in the winter and 19 (50.0%) in the summer. Strongyloides spp. were more frequent in the winter (13 courts; 34.2%), while Ancylostoma spp. were more frequent in the summer (15 courts; 39.5%). Across both seasons, 27 courts harbored at least one parasite, with nine testing positive during both periods. Ancylostoma spp. occurred predominantly in the surface layer during the summer, whereas Strongyloides spp. were more abundant in the shallow and deep layers during the winter. The presence of grass surrounding the courts acted as a protective factor against Ancylostoma spp. (OR = 0.25; p = 0.048), while complete shading favored Strongyloides spp. (OR = 13.71; p = 0.033). These findings highlight elevated contamination of the courts throughout the year and reinforce the need for year-round environmental sanitation measures, properly management of stray or owned dogs and cats populations, and health education to reduce the risk of infection in recreational areas.
Canine vector-borne diseases (CVBDs) pose a significant threat to dogs and public health. Although Lebanon's environmental conditions favor transmission, data on the prevalence and risk factors of CVBDs such as Ehrlichia spp., Anaplasma spp., Borrelia burgdorferi, and Dirofilaria immitis remain scarce. This study investigates the prevalence of these pathogens in dogs across key urban and peri-urban regions (North Lebanon, Mount Lebanon, and Beirut) while identifying associated risk factors contributing to their spread. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 425 dogs. Blood samples were collected during routine veterinary visits and analyzed using the SNAP® 4Dx® Plus ELISA test. Data on potential risk factors were collected and analyzed using pathogen-specific multivariable logistic regression models. Seroprevalence was 11.06% for Ehrlichia spp. (n = 47), 5.65% for Anaplasma spp. (n = 24), 2.12% for Borrelia burgdorferi (n = 9), and 1.65% for Dirofilaria immitis (n = 7). Ectoparasite infestations and housing three or more dogs were significantly associated with seropositivity for Ehrlichia spp., Anaplasma spp., and Borrelia burgdorferi (P < 0.05). For Dirofilaria immitis, housing three or more dogs was the only factor significantly associated with seropositivity. Additional pathogen-specific associations were identified for Ehrlichia spp., including age over six years (P = 0.03), female sex (P = 0.04), and the summer season (P = 0.02), while inadequate sanitation was significantly associated with Anaplasma spp. seropositivity (P = 0.01). This study represents the first comprehensive epidemiological investigation of CVBDs in Lebanon. The findings highlight host factors, environmental conditions, and management practices as key contributors to disease transmission and emphasize the need for holistic control programs, long-term surveillance, and strengthened collaboration to reduce zoonotic disease risk in Lebanon and the wider Middle East.
This study established the sensitivity (SENS), specificity (SPEC), positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) of FAMACHA© 4-5 or 3-5, or BCS 1-2 when used to identify sheep or goats with gastrointestinal (GIN) egg counts >75th and 90th percentile at 10 farms in Mississippi state, U.S., during the fall and spring. Animals in five sheep and five goat farms were sampled in both seasons. At each visit, all adult females were assessed for FAMACHA© and body condition score (BCS), and individual fecal samples were collected. The GIN egg counts (eggs per gram of feces, EPG) were estimated with the McMaster method. Descriptive statistics (mean, median, skewness, 75th or 90th percentiles) were generated for each farm in each season, and for all the sheep or goat farms in each season. Respective 2 × 2 contingency tables were used to establish the association between FAMACHA© or BCS and the EPG thresholds (75th or 90th percentile) in both seasons. A series of 2 × 2 contingency tables were used to calculate the SENS, SPEC, PPV, and NPV for FAMACHA© 4-5 or 3-5, or BCS 1-2 to identify animals with EPG > 90th or > 75th percentile (cut-off points). More than 80% of the animals on the goat farms were infected but had low EPG in both seasons, with medians at 200 EPG or less and 90th percentiles at 1200 EPG in the fall and 1150 EPG in the spring. Meanwhile, < 68% of the ewes were infected with GIN on the surveyed farms in both seasons, with medians of 50 EPG and 90th percentiles of 935 EPG in the fall and 850 EPG in the spring. Except for FAMACHA© 4-5 in sheep, the FAMACHA© and BCS thresholds tested had poor PPV for identifying goats or sheep with EPG at or above the 90th or 75th percentile in the fall and spring. The low PPV was due to the high number of thin or anemic animals with low EPG counts (< 90th or 75th percentile). However, high NPVs were observed for both phenotypic indicators in goats and sheep across both seasons. Based on the results presented, pale FAMACHA© scores or low BCS alone should not be used as the sole criterion for anthelmintic treatment decisions on Mississippi farms. These tools are better interpreted as preliminary screening measures that should be followed by fecal egg count testing to guide deworming decisions.
Canine babesiosis is a disease caused by protozoa of the genus Babesia, an important hemoparasite in veterinary clinical practice. In Brazil, Babesia vogeli predominates; however, Babesia gibsoni, common in Asia and the United States, has emerged globally with distinct diagnostic, therapeutic, prophylactic, and prognostic features. In the present study, we report the first multilocus molecular characterization of B. gibsoni in Brazil with supported clinical, laboratory and morphological data. A Dachshund dog from the Federal District presented with nonspecific clinical signs, including fever, dehydration, and persistent anemia. Babesia infection was confirmed by PCR and further characterized using four molecular markers (cytb, cox3, hsp70, and 18S rRNA). Phylogenetic and sequence identity analyses confirmed the species as B. gibsoni. Haplotype networks were constructed, and diversity indices were calculated, revealing significant genetic variability within the species. The Brazilian isolate clustered within the dominant haplotype for the 18S rRNA gene. This network suggests a possible recent population expansion of the pathogen. The cytb and cox3 genes exhibited high genetic variability, demonstrating their suitability as markers for intraspecific diversity analyses. Our findings suggest that B. gibsoni infections may be underdiagnosed in Brazil. Furthermore, considering the genetic diversity and widespread distribution of this pathogen, epidemiological, phylogenetic, and phylogeographic studies are essential to enhance understanding of its occurrence and impact within the country. Although this study is limited by the evaluation of a single case, it emphasizes the importance of molecular surveillance in canine babesiosis and highlights B. gibsoni, an emerging pathogen, as a critical differential diagnosis in the clinical evaluation of dogs in Brazil.
Rhipicephalus microplus (R. microplus) is the most significant tick in cattle worldwide, including Mexico; however, its presence in sheep is infrequent and typically associated with accidental exposures in production systems where they coexist with infested cattle. The objective of this study is to describe R. microplus infestation in sheep from Yucatán, Mexico, and to determine their toxicological response to coumaphos, cypermethrin, and ivermectin (IVM). The animal population of the production unit under study was examined for the presence of ticks, revealing infestations in sheep and cattle. Cattle exhibited between 12 and 21 standard ticks/animal, whereas six young sheep showed high infestation levels (35.1 standard ticks/animal). Engorged female ticks were collected for morphological identification and progeny collection. The larval packet technique was used to assess susceptibility to coumaphos and cypermethrin, and the larval immersion technique was used to assess susceptibility to IVM. Lethal concentrations at 50% (LC50) and 95% confidence intervals (CI95%) were determined using Probit analysis, as well as resistance ratios (RRs). All collected ticks were identified as R. microplus. The LC50s were 0.003 (0.002-0.004), 0.007 (0.005-0.009), and 0.0004 (0.0003-0.0005) for coumaphos, cypermethrin, and IVM, respectively. The evaluated population was susceptible to the acaricides, with RRs of 0.14, 0.53, and 0.8 for coumaphos, cypermethrin, and IVM, respectively. It is concluded that young sheep in a production unit in Yucatán, Mexico, had high infestations of R. microplus, and toxicological evaluation showed susceptibility to the evaluated compounds.
The interaction between dogs and humans has increased significantly. This close contact could affect people's health by transmitting zoonotic parasites present in canine stools. Parks and public squares are places of contact with these agents. In this context, this work aimed to characterize the occurrence of zoonotic risk endoparasites in canine stool collected from the main urban parks of Gran Santiago and to determine whether spatial clusters were present among the detected parasites. For this, 468 stool samples were collected from 26 urban parks, and each sample was analyzed using the modified Telemann method and Ziehl-Neelsen stain. Zoonotic endoparasites were detected in all 26 urban parks (100%). Of the total analyzed samples, 145 (31.0%) were positive for at least one gastrointestinal parasite with potential zoonotic risk, identifying the following genera and species: Giardia sp. (12.2%), Toxocara spp. (9.6%), Cryptosporidium sp. (6.2%), Toxascaris leonina (3.2%), Cestode-like egg (2.6%), Ancylostomatidae eggs (1.7%), and Dipylidium caninum (0.9%). The highest infestation rates were recorded in parks in the northwest sector (Cerro Navia, Renca, and Estación Central) and the central sector (Santiago, San Miguel, and San Joaquín) of the sampled area. Local clustering of positive samples was assessed using the Bernoulli model of the spatial scan statistic for each parasite species detected, considering a purely spatial cluster analysis, showing statistically significant high-risk clusters only for Giardia sp. (RR = 2.96; p-value = 0.050) and Cryptosporidium sp. (RR = 6.60; p-value = 0.004). These results show a wide distribution of parasitic stages with zoonotic risk in the urban parks of Gran Santiago. In addition, there was an increase in the incidence of protozoan infections, such as Giardia sp. and Cryptosporidium spp., compared with previous studies, and the detection of high-risk spatial clusters. These results suggest a potential risk to public health and a change in the prevalence and distribution of parasites, which should be monitored regularly.
Toxoplasmosis is a parasitic disease affecting both humans and animals and is caused by the protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii. In livestock, the infection leads to significant economic losses, mainly due to reproductive disorders such as abortion, and may cause severe clinical manifestations in pregnant and immunocompromised hosts. Despite its importance, updated epidemiological data on caprine toxoplasmosis in underreported regions of Algeria remain limited. Therefore, this study provides recent epidemiological insights from midland and lowland goat-rearing areas of the country. The present study aimed to determine the seroprevalence of T. gondii infection and to identify associated risk factors in goats from Algeria. A cross-sectional study was conducted between November 2022 and February 2024. A total of 184 blood samples were collected from goats, including 155 females and 29 males, originating from Laghouat (n = 161) and Djelfa (n = 23) regions. Serum samples were tested for anti-T. gondii antibodies using the ID Screen® Toxoplasmosis Indirect ELISA Multi-species kit. Of the 184 sera analyzed, 23 were positive, yielding an overall seroprevalence of 12.5%, while one sample was classified as doubtful. Statistical analysis revealed that seropositivity was significantly associated with age (p < 0.001), breed (p = 0.007), production type (p = 0.005), feeding regime (p < 0.001), body condition score (p = 0.026), breeding system (p = 0.001), and region (p < 0.001). No significant association was observed with gender or cohabitation with other animal species. In conclusion, this study confirms the circulation of T. gondii among goats in Algeria, with a notable seroprevalence indicating ongoing transmission. These findings highlight the importance of continuous epidemiological surveillance to better understand transmission dynamics and to support the implementation of effective control strategies aimed at reducing economic losses and potential public health risks.
Rodents are cosmopolitan micromammals inhabiting a vast variety of ecosystems worldwide, also acting as relevant reservoirs of many zoonotic pathogens. This study aimed to review the knowledge about zoonotic A. cantonensis and Trichinella spp. in synanthropic rodents from the African continent and Madagascar. Our results revealed a quantitatively limited (n = 17) and geographically restricted (9 countries) publications evaluating the epidemiology of A. cantonensis and Trichinella spp. A total of five genera and nine rodent species were reported in the reviewed publications. Although genus Rattus was present in many of the selected articles and harboured the highest pathogen prevalence (3.2-100% for A. cantonensis and 12.2-13.3% for Trichinella spp.), our findings suggest that minor rodents (e.g., Arvichanthis spp. and Mastomys spp.) could act as local reservoirs of these zoonoses in Africa. The reviewed publications also evidenced a limited use of sensitive methodological procedures to evaluate pathogen circulation, so the promotion of artificial digestion for the isolation of Trichinella spp. larvae, and molecular-based assays to detect and characterise both A. cantonensis and Trichinella spp. are recommended. Our findings suggest that promoting rodent-based surveillance programs in African countries and implementing control strategies on synanthropic rodents could positively reduce the human exposure to A. cantonensis and Trichinella spp. Given global interconnectedness and the effective spread of pathogens across boundaries, cooperation between African health authorities and the international community is encouraged to develop epidemiological surveys in Africa in search of global health.
Clinostomum species (spp.) are significant fish-borne zoonotic helminths worldwide, causing yellow grub disease which diminishes the quality, marketability, and productivity of infected fish stocks. Despite their veterinary and public health relevance, detailed molecular investigations of Clinostomum spp. infecting Nile tilapia in Egypt remain limited, especially in Upper Egypt. A total of 400 Nile tilapias were collected from fish farms in Sohag Governorate, Upper Egypt, and initially screened for encysted metacercariae through visual inspection and subsequent light microscopic examination. Recovered parasites were fixed, stained, and identified based on detailed morphological features. For robust molecular confirmation, high-quality genomic DNA was successfully extracted from metacercariae derived from 40 heavily infected representative samples. Targeting of the internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2) regions was performed using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) with specific primers. The resulting sequences were examined using BLAST searches and maximum likelihood phylogenetic reconstruction to confirm species identity, and the validated sequences were subsequently deposited in GenBank™. In this study, microscopic examination revealed parasites exhibiting characteristic morphological features of Clinostomum spp., which were detected in 35.0% (140/400; 95% CI: 30.33-39.67) of the examined Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). The parasite was detected most frequently in tilapia weighing 50-200 g, at a rate of 44.8%, suggesting increased susceptibility among smaller fish. Molecular analyses confirmed the presence of Clinostomum spp. in all positive specimens. The validated sequence (GenBank accession number PQ330909) confirmed through phylogenetic reconstruction identified the encysted metacercariae as Clinostomum phalacrocoracis, showing strong genetic similarity to isolates previously reported from other regions. Overall, these results demonstrate a high prevalence of Clinostomum phalacrocoracis infection in Nile tilapia populations in Upper Egypt, with smaller fish showing the highest frequency. Molecular analyses provide definitive confirmation of Clinostomum phalacrocoracis, complementing morphological identification and offering a comprehensive characterization of the metacercariae. This study also situates the findings within the broader context of previous reports on Nile tilapia in Egypt, providing an updated overview of the parasite's distribution and genetic relationships. Collectively, the evidence underscores the need for enhanced monitoring and management strategies to protect fish health and mitigate potential zoonotic risks in regional aquaculture systems.
Ixodid ticks (Acari: Ixodidae) are significant ectoparasites and vectors of pathogens that pose major veterinary and public health risks. Despite their epidemiological importance, comprehensive data on the tick fauna of North Macedonia remain limited. This study aimed to investigate the diversity, distribution, and host associations of ixodid ticks infesting domestic animals across the country. A total of 694 adult ticks were collected from sheep, cattle, goats, and dogs during field sampling conducted from May to September 2025 across 14 municipalities in five statistical regions. All specimens were morphologically identified to species level using established taxonomic keys. Eight tick species belonging to four genera were identified: Rhipicephalus bursa (35.2%), Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato (30.3%), Hyalomma marginatum (25.4%), Hyalomma scupense (5.9%), Hyalomma excavatum (2.7%), Hyalomma rufipes (0.3%), Ixodes ricinus (0.1%), and Haemaphysalis sulcata (0.1%). Most ticks were collected from sheep (61.4%), followed by cattle (33.3%), dogs (4.3%), and goats (1%). Host association was evident, with H. marginatum dominating in cattle, R. bursa in sheep, and R. sanguineus s.l. in dogs and goats. The results confirm a diverse and well-established ixodid tick fauna in North Macedonia, consistent with patterns observed in the Western Balkans. The predominance of thermophilic Mediterranean species underscores the influence of climatic conditions and ecological factors on tick distribution. These findings provide baseline entomological data for the country and emphasize the importance of continuous monitoring and integrated One Health approaches to mitigate the risk of emerging and re-emerging tick-borne diseases.
Pakistan ranks third globally in goat population with approximately 89 million heads in 2025; however, despite this large population base, the apparent PCR based prevalence of hemoparasitic and bacterial pathogens in goats remains largely underexplored. This study aimed to report the molecular prevalence and phylogenetic characteristics of Anaplasma ovis, Anaplasma marginale, Babesia ovis, Theileria ovis and Toxoplasma gondii in goat blood samples (n = 247) collected from two districts (Muzaffargarh and Multan) in Punjab between August till November 2025. Results indicated a significant variation in the infection rates of the five screened pathogens among the enrolled goats (P < 0.001). Anaplasma ovis exhibited the highest apparent PCR based prevalence (20.6%), followed by B. ovis (8.5%), T. gondii (8.1%), A. marginale (6.9%) and T. ovis (5.7%) respectively. Instances of co-infection with two and three pathogens were also recorded. DNA sequencing and BLAST analysis confirmed the presence of all screened pathogens. Phylogenetic analysis showed that these isolates were genetically closely related to strains reported from various countries worldwide. We observed higher PCR detected T. gondii infection in smaller herds (P = 0.02) and in herds with dogs (P = 0.03), among Rajanpuri breed (P = 0.005) and in goats from Muzaffargarh district (P = 0.04). In contrast, T. ovis infection was more common among small goat herds (P = 0.04). In conclusion, this study reports a high apparent prevalence of A. ovis while moderate to low PCR based prevalence of A. marginale, B. ovis, T. ovis and T. gondii infections in goats from Punjab, Pakistan. Comprehensive multi-regional studies are warranted to clarify the epidemiology, genetic diversity, and host-parasite dynamics of these pathogens to support effective control strategies in goats.
Bangladesh, one of the top fish-producing countries in South Asia, has made significant progress in inland and marine fisheries and aquaculture in recent years. Parasitic infections in fish remain a major challenge and a threat to fish abundance and biodiversity. Fishes are affected by both external and internal parasites, with helminths being the most common. These parasites can affect fish growth, survival, and marketability and can pose a risk of fish-borne zoonosis. In recent years, global concern about food safety and security has remained high. Bangladesh is expanding its global fish and fish product exports, where fishbone parasites, particularly zoonotic helminths, are a major concern. But the occurrence and distribution of helminth parasites in Bangladeshi fish are not well documented due to lack of data. This study therefore aimed to gather and summarise the available data on helminth occurrence in fishes in Bangladesh using a systematic approach. Relevant articles were retrieved from five electronic databases/repositories, including PubMed, ProQuest, ScienceDirect, Scopus, and Google Scholar. A total of 55 articles were included in this review that reported helminth infections in 68 species of marine and inland fish, 50 families, and 96 genera of helminths, including acanthocephalans, cestodes, monogeneans, nematodes, and trematodes. Notably, 31 genera were considered to have zoonotic relevance. These findings suggest that collective measures should be taken, including implementing a parasitic disease control plan in aquaculture practices and raising public awareness about fishbone helminths in Bangladesh. Additionally, a collaborative approach should be adopted with neighbouring regions to combat this issue.