Human dirofilariasis: an emerging zoonosis in India

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Parasitology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Human dirofilariasis is a rare zoonotic parasitic infection with a global presence.
• Over 800 cases of Dirofilaria infection have been documented worldwide, with notable concentrations in Italy, Sri Lanka, and former Soviet republics.
• Dirofilaria repens, a species within the subgenus Nochtiella, is the most frequently identified species in India.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review cases of human dirofilariasis in India.
• To analyze the epidemiology and geographical distribution of Dirofilaria infections.
• To investigate potential reasons for the increased incidence of dirofilariasis in the Indian subcontinent.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of documented human dirofilariasis cases.
• Analysis of case data from India, including those from the authors' institute.
• Epidemiological and topographical assessment of reported infections.

Main Results:

• The orbital and periorbital regions are the most commonly affected anatomical sites.
• Dirofilaria repens is the predominant species implicated in Indian cases.
• The review highlights a probable increase in dirofilariasis incidence within the Indian subcontinent.

Conclusions:

• Human dirofilariasis, particularly by Dirofilaria repens, is a significant zoonotic concern in India.
• Understanding the epidemiological patterns is crucial for public health interventions.
• Further research is needed to elucidate the factors contributing to the rising incidence in the region.