Vector-borne pathogens in dogs from Guatemala, Central America

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Parasitology
• Canine Infectious Diseases
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Limited scientific data exists on vector-borne pathogens (VBPs) in dogs in Guatemala.
• VBPs pose significant health risks to canine populations globally.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence of key VBPs in dogs across Guatemala.
• To identify risk factors, including geographic location and climate, associated with VBP infections.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study was conducted from 2012-2015, sampling 975 dogs from various Guatemalan departments.
• Rapid ELISA tests were employed to detect Dirofilaria immitis antigen and antibodies against Anaplasma spp., Ehrlichia spp., and Borrelia burgdorferi.

Main Results:

• Overall, 46.4% of dogs tested positive for at least one VBP.
• Dirofilaria immitis was the most prevalent (29.7%), followed by Ehrlichia spp. (11.5%) and Anaplasma spp. (5.1%). Borrelia burgdorferi was not detected.
• Co-infections occurred in 18.1% of dogs, with Dirofilaria immitis and Ehrlichia spp. co-infection being most frequent.

Conclusions:

• The prevalence of VBPs in Guatemalan dogs is substantial, with significant regional variation.
• Canine VBP risk appears influenced by climate, with higher rates observed in the tropical savanna climate of Santa Rosa.
• Enhanced surveillance and preventive measures are crucial for canine health in Guatemala.