Canine Leishmaniasis in Eastern Algeria: Seroprevalence and Risk Factors

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Infectious Diseases
• Parasitology

Background:

• Canine leishmaniasis, caused by Leishmania infantum, is a growing public health concern.
• Domestic dogs are the primary reservoir for Leishmania infantum, posing a risk of transmission to humans.
• Limited data exists on the prevalence and risk factors of Leishmania infantum in eastern Algeria.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the seroprevalence of Leishmania infantum in domestic dogs in eastern Algeria.
• To identify potential risk factors associated with Leishmania infantum infection in dogs.
• To understand the clinical manifestations of Leishmania infantum in infected dogs.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional seroepidemiological survey was conducted from 2021 to 2025.
• Blood samples were collected from 347 domestic dogs across urban and rural areas in Batna, Oum El Bouaghi, and Biskra provinces.
• Anti-Leishmania antibodies were detected using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Main Results:

• The overall seroprevalence of Leishmania infantum infection was 10.37%.
• Among seropositive dogs, 66.6% displayed clinical signs, with emaciation being the most common symptom.
• Significant associations were found between seropositivity and age, geographical area, clinical status, nutrition, province, and lifestyle.

Conclusions:

• Leishmania infantum infection is prevalent in domestic dogs in eastern Algeria.
• Canine leishmaniasis presents with significant clinical signs in the affected population.
• Age, environment, and lifestyle are critical factors influencing infection risk, necessitating targeted control strategies.