Environmental contamination by canine geohelminths

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Parasitology
• Public Health
• Environmental Epidemiology

Background:

• Intestinal nematodes (roundworms, hookworms, whipworms) in dogs present significant health risks to both animals and humans.
• Infection occurs through ingestion of parasitic stages contaminating the environment, posing a zoonotic threat.
• High contamination rates of soil and grass in urban and recreational areas with canine parasitic elements are globally documented.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the epidemiological and sanitary significance of canine intestinal parasite contamination in urban settings.
• To discuss integrated strategies for minimizing infection risks in diverse environments.

Main Methods:

• This is a review article, synthesizing existing research on canine intestinal parasites and environmental contamination.
• The review focuses on epidemiological data and public health implications in urban environments.

Main Results:

• Canine intestinal nematodes are prevalent in urban environments, contributing to significant faecal pollution.
• Environmental contamination poses a direct risk of infection to both dogs and humans, especially in public and recreational areas.

Conclusions:

• Effective management of canine intestinal parasites in urban areas is crucial for public health.
• Integrated approaches are necessary to mitigate the risks associated with environmental contamination and zoonotic transmission.