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Canine visceral leishmaniasis in Sicily
G R Orndorff1, B A Cooper, W Smith
1Department of Epidemiology, U.S. Navy Environmental and Preventive Medicine Unit 7, Sigonella, Sicily.
Military Medicine
|February 5, 2000
Summary
Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is increasing in Sicily. A study found 60% of dogs owned by U.S. personnel had Leishmania infantum exposure, indicating a high risk for canine infection and potential human transmission.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
- Parasitology
Background:
- Catania, Sicily, is an endemic region for human visceral leishmaniasis (VL).
- Recent increases in VL cases were reported among the local population and U.S. military personnel stationed in Sicily.
- Canine visceral leishmaniasis, caused by Leishmania infantum, is a significant public health concern, as dogs are reservoirs for the parasite.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the exposure rate and prevalence of Leishmania infantum infection in dogs owned by U.S. military personnel and their families at Naval Air Station Sigonella, Sicily.
- To evaluate the risk of canine infection with Leishmania infantum in this specific population.
Main Methods:
- Clinical evaluation and serological testing (measuring immunoglobulin M antibody levels) were performed on 50 dogs owned by U.S. personnel.
- Dogs were sampled from areas where sandflies, the vectors of Leishmania infantum, are present.
- Sandflies were trapped in the same locations as the sampled dogs to confirm vector presence.
Main Results:
- A high exposure rate to Leishmania was detected, with 60% of tested dogs showing elevated immunoglobulin M antibody levels, suggesting infection with Leishmania infantum.
- Among seropositive dogs, 75% exhibited subclinical infection, indicating a high prevalence of asymptomatic carriers.
- Sandflies capable of transmitting Leishmania infantum were found in the same areas where the dogs were sampled.
Conclusions:
- The study indicates a significant level of Leishmania infantum exposure and infection among dogs owned by U.S. personnel in Sicily.
- There is an increased risk of infection for both military working dogs and companion animals during military assignments in Sicily.
- The findings highlight the importance of canine leishmaniasis surveillance and control measures in areas with co-existing human and canine populations at risk.