Occurrence and Phylogenetic Analysis of Zoonotic Enteropathogenic Protist Parasites in Asymptomatic Domestic Ruminants from Portugal

• Type: Article in International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2023

Authors

Gomes Gonçalves, S (Author) Other; Palmeira, JD (Author) Other; Helena Sousa (Author) FFUP; Santos Silva, S (Author) Other; Mesquita, JR (Author) ICBAS

Journal

Title: Pathogens

Vol. 12

Final page: 1341

Publisher: MDPI

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 6 Citations

Scopus - 0 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-00Z-ANG

DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12111341

Abstract (EN): Enteropathogenic parasites are of significant concern for public health due to their zoonotic potential and their impact on human and animal health. In this study, we investigated their occurrence and characterized these enteropathogens in asymptomatic domestic ruminants from Portugal. A total of 302 stool samples were collected from cattle (n = 166), sheep (n = 73), and goats (n = 63) in various regions of Portugal and tested for Cryptosporidium spp., Giardia duodenalis, Enterocytozoon bieneusi, Blastocystis sp., and Balantioides coli by PCR. The occurrence of Cryptosporidium spp. was found to be 12.7% (8/63, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 5.65-23.5) in goats; however, no sample was found to be positive for Cryptosporidium spp. in cattle and sheep. For E. bieneusi, 6.35% (4/63; 95%CI: 1.76-15.47) of goats were found to be positive; however, no cattle or sheep were found to be positive. Blastocystis sp. was found in sheep (9.59%; 7/73; 95% [CI]: 0.394-18.76) and goats (12.70%; 8/63; 95% [CI]: 5.65-23.50) but none was found in cattle. No positive results for G. duodenalis or B. coli were detected in this study. This study provides essential baseline information for understanding the silent shedding and epidemiology of these enteropathogens in Portugal, contributing to overall livestock health and related occupational safety. Raising awareness among consumers, veterinarians, and farm owners is crucial to minimize the risk of transmission and promote effective disease control strategies.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 13