An outbreak of caprine toxoplasmosis - investigation and case report / Surto de toxoplasmose caprina-investigação e relato de caso

The present study aimed to investigate an abortion outbreak in a dairy goat herd in the municipality of Arapoti, Parana, Brazil. At the beginning of the outbreak, blood samples were collected from 33 goats with clinical signs; later, of the whole goat herd, two cats and two dogs. Milk samples were collected from 78 lactating goats. Four environmental soil samples and four samples of feed residue from goat feeders were collected too. Immunofluorescence antibody test (IFA) was used for serodiagnosis, the molecular analysis was conducted by means of the polymerase chain reaction (PCR), for the isolation of the etiological agent the bioassay was used. The results of the IFA revealed that 76.53% (137/179) of the goats, two dogs and two cats were seropositive for Toxoplasma gondii. Bioassay revealed one buffy coat and two milk sample having viable T. gondii. In the PCR, 11 whole blood samples, eight milk, three feeder troughs, and all soil samples were positive. The findings of the present study confirmed an outbreak caused by environmental contamination (of soil and feed) with T. gondii oocysts that could have been shed by kittens that lived on the farm and had access to the stock of goat food, facilitating this contamination, which reinforces the need for veterinary assistance and good management practices on farms.

O presente estudo teve como objetivo investigar um surto de aborto em um rebanho de cabras leiteiras no município de Arapoti, Paraná, Brasil. No início do surto, foram coletadas amostras de sangue de 33 cabras com sinais clínicos; mais tarde, de todo o rebanho caprino, dois gatos e dois cachorros. Foram obtidas amostras de leite das 78 cabras em lactação. Quatro amostras ambientais de solo e quatro de resíduos de comedouro também foram coletadas. O teste de imunofluorescência (IFI) foi utilizado para o sorodiagnóstico, a análise molecular foi conduzida por meio da reação em cadeia da polimerase (PCR), para isolamento do agente etiológico utilizou-se o bioensaio. Os resultados da IFI revelaram que 76,53% (137/179) das cabras, todos os cães e gatos eram soropositivos para Toxoplasma gondii. O bioensaio revelou uma amostra de camada leucocitória e duas de leite contaminadas com T. gondii viável. Na PCR, 11 amostras de sangue total, oito de leite, três resíduos alimentares e todas as amostras de solo foram positivas. Os resultados do presente estudo confirmaram um surto causado por contaminação ambiental (de solo e alimentos) com oocistos de T. gondii que, provavelmente, foram eliminados por gatos que permaneceram na fazenda e tinham acesso ao estoque de alimento dos caprinos, reforçando a necessidade de assistência técnica veterinária e boas práticas de manejo.

An outbreak of caprine toxoplasmosis - investigation and case report / Surto de toxoplasmose caprina-investigação e relato de caso

The present study aimed to investigate an abortion outbreak in a dairy goat herd in the municipality of Arapoti, Parana, Brazil. At the beginning of the outbreak, blood samples were collected from 33 goats with clinical signs; later, of the whole goat herd, two cats and two dogs. Milk samples were collected from 78 lactating goats. Four environmental soil samples and four samples of feed residue from goat feeders were collected too. Immunofluorescence antibody test (IFA) was used for serodiagnosis, the molecular analysis was conducted by means of the polymerase chain reaction (PCR), for the isolation of the etiological agent the bioassay was used. The results of the IFA revealed that 76.53% (137/179) of the goats, two dogs and two cats were seropositive for Toxoplasma gondii. Bioassay revealed one buffy coat and two milk sample having viable T. gondii. In the PCR, 11 whole blood samples, eight milk, three feeder troughs, and all soil samples were positive. The findings of the present study confirmed an outbreak caused by environmental contamination (of soil and feed) with T. gondii oocysts that could have been shed by kittens that lived on the farm and had access to the stock of goat food, facilitating this contamination, which reinforces the need for veterinary assistance and good management practices on farms.(AU)

O presente estudo teve como objetivo investigar um surto de aborto em um rebanho de cabras leiteiras no município de Arapoti, Paraná, Brasil. No início do surto, foram coletadas amostras de sangue de 33 cabras com sinais clínicos; mais tarde, de todo o rebanho caprino, dois gatos e dois cachorros. Foram obtidas amostras de leite das 78 cabras em lactação. Quatro amostras ambientais de solo e quatro de resíduos de comedouro também foram coletadas. O teste de imunofluorescência (IFI) foi utilizado para o sorodiagnóstico, a análise molecular foi conduzida por meio da reação em cadeia da polimerase (PCR), para isolamento do agente etiológico utilizou-se o bioensaio. Os resultados da IFI revelaram que 76,53% (137/179) das cabras, todos os cães e gatos eram soropositivos para Toxoplasma gondii. O bioensaio revelou uma amostra de camada leucocitória e duas de leite contaminadas com T. gondii viável. Na PCR, 11 amostras de sangue total, oito de leite, três resíduos alimentares e todas as amostras de solo foram positivas. Os resultados do presente estudo confirmaram um surto causado por contaminação ambiental (de solo e alimentos) com oocistos de T. gondii que, provavelmente, foram eliminados por gatos que permaneceram na fazenda e tinham acesso ao estoque de alimento dos caprinos, reforçando a necessidade de assistência técnica veterinária e boas práticas de manejo.(AU)

Seroepidemiology of toxoplasmosis in humans and dogs from a small municipality in Parana, Brazil / Soroepidemiologia da toxoplasmose em humanos e cães de uma pequena cidade no Paraná, Brasil

Toxoplasmosis is a worldwide zoonosis with important public health implications. The aims of this study were to determine and identify factors associated to the seroprevalence of anti-Toxoplasma gondii antibodies in humans and dogs from Jataizinho, Parana State, Brazil. Serum samples from 280 humans and 766 dogs, from rural and urban areas, were tested by indirect immunofluorescent antibody test. Positive dilutions were ≥ 1:16. Epidemiological informations were obtained through an individual questionnaire and data tabulation was performed using EpiInfo 3.5.3 (CDC, Atlanta). Statistical significance was evaluated by chi-square (ᵪ2) or Fisher’s exact tests with a 5.0 % significance level. The seroprevalence in humans was 70.00% (196/280), as follows: 69.08% (143/207) in rural and 72.60% (53/73) in a slum urban community. The seroprevalence in dogs was 52.35% (401/766), as follows: 71.74% (99/138) in rural and 48.08% (302/628) in urban area. In rural areas, there was no factor associated to risk of infection. In urban slum community, visualizing more than four rats at home was a factor statistically associated to seropositivity for human toxoplamosis. Infection of urban dogs was associated to age, contact with stray dogs or rodents, and free access to street. The results indicated a similar possibility of contact with Toxoplasma gondii between dogs and humans living in rural or slum urban areas of small municipalities.

A toxoplasmose é uma doença de distribuição mundial com importantes implicações em saúde pública. Os objetivos deste estudo foram determinar e identificar fatores associados à soroprevalência de anticorpos anti-Toxoplasma gondii em humanos e cães de Jataizinho, Paraná, Brasil. Amostras de soro de 280 humanos e 766 cães, de áreas rural e urbana, foram testadas pela reação de imunofluorescência indireta (RIFI). Foram consideradas positivas diluições ≥1:16. Informações epidemiológicas foram obtidas por meio de questionário individual e a tabulação dos dados foi realizada com EpiInfo 3.5.3 (CDC, Atlanta). A significância estatística foi avaliada por Chi-quadrado (ᵪ2) ou Exato de Fisher com nível de significância de 5,0 %. A soroprevalência em humanos foi como segue: 70,00% (196/280), 69,08% (143/207) em área rural e 72,60% (53/73) em uma comunidade urbana carente. Em cães, foi 52,35% (401/766), na área rural 71,74% (99/138) e na área urbana 48,08% (302/628). Nas áreas rurais não houve fator estatisticamente associado ao risco de toxoplasmose. Na área urbana, visualizar mais do que quatro ratos em casa foi fator associado à soropositividade para toxoplasmose em humanos. A soropositividade em cães urbanos apresentou associação à idade, ao contato com cães errantes ou roedores e com acesso livre à rua. Os resultados indicaram semelhante possibilidade de contato com Toxoplasma gondii entre cães e humanos residentes em áreas rurais ou urbanas carentes de pequenos municípios.

Seroepidemiology of toxoplasmosis in humans and dogs from a small municipality in Parana, Brazil / Soroepidemiologia da toxoplasmose em humanos e cães de uma pequena cidade no Paraná, Brasil

Toxoplasmosis is a worldwide zoonosis with important public health implications. The aims of this study were to determine and identify factors associated to the seroprevalence of anti-Toxoplasma gondii antibodies in humans and dogs from Jataizinho, Parana State, Brazil. Serum samples from 280 humans and 766 dogs, from rural and urban areas, were tested by indirect immunofluorescent antibody test. Positive dilutions were ≥ 1:16. Epidemiological informations were obtained through an individual questionnaire and data tabulation was performed using EpiInfo 3.5.3 (CDC, Atlanta). Statistical significance was evaluated by chi-square (ᵪ2) or Fishers exact tests with a 5.0 % significance level. The seroprevalence in humans was 70.00% (196/280), as follows: 69.08% (143/207) in rural and 72.60% (53/73) in a slum urban community. The seroprevalence in dogs was 52.35% (401/766), as follows: 71.74% (99/138) in rural and 48.08% (302/628) in urban area. In rural areas, there was no factor associated to risk of infection. In urban slum community, visualizing more than four rats at home was a factor statistically associated to seropositivity for human toxoplamosis. Infection of urban dogs was associated to age, contact with stray dogs or rodents, and free access to street. The results indicated a similar possibility of contact with Toxoplasma gondii between dogs and humans living in rural or slum urban areas of small municipalities.(AU)

A toxoplasmose é uma doença de distribuição mundial com importantes implicações em saúde pública. Os objetivos deste estudo foram determinar e identificar fatores associados à soroprevalência de anticorpos anti-Toxoplasma gondii em humanos e cães de Jataizinho, Paraná, Brasil. Amostras de soro de 280 humanos e 766 cães, de áreas rural e urbana, foram testadas pela reação de imunofluorescência indireta (RIFI). Foram consideradas positivas diluições ≥1:16. Informações epidemiológicas foram obtidas por meio de questionário individual e a tabulação dos dados foi realizada com EpiInfo 3.5.3 (CDC, Atlanta). A significância estatística foi avaliada por Chi-quadrado (ᵪ2) ou Exato de Fisher com nível de significância de 5,0 %. A soroprevalência em humanos foi como segue: 70,00% (196/280), 69,08% (143/207) em área rural e 72,60% (53/73) em uma comunidade urbana carente. Em cães, foi 52,35% (401/766), na área rural 71,74% (99/138) e na área urbana 48,08% (302/628). Nas áreas rurais não houve fator estatisticamente associado ao risco de toxoplasmose. Na área urbana, visualizar mais do que quatro ratos em casa foi fator associado à soropositividade para toxoplasmose em humanos. A soropositividade em cães urbanos apresentou associação à idade, ao contato com cães errantes ou roedores e com acesso livre à rua. Os resultados indicaram semelhante possibilidade de contato com Toxoplasma gondii entre cães e humanos residentes em áreas rurais ou urbanas carentes de pequenos municípios.(AU)

SEROEPIDEMIOLOGY OF TOXOPLASMOSIS IN HUMANS AND DOGS FROM A SMALL MUNICIPALITY IN PARANA, BRAZIL

Abstract Toxoplasmosis is a worldwide zoonosis with important public health implications. The aims of this study were to determine and identify factors associated to the seroprevalence of anti-Toxoplasma gondii antibodies in humans and dogs from Jataizinho, Parana State, Brazil. Serum samples from 280 humans and 766 dogs, from rural and urban areas, were tested by indirect immunofluorescent antibody test. Positive dilutions were 1:16. Epidemiological informations were obtained through an individual questionnaire and data tabulation was performed using EpiInfo 3.5.3 (CDC, Atlanta). Statistical significance was evaluated by chi-square (2) or Fisher's exact tests with a 5.0 % significance level. The seroprevalence in humans was 70.00% (196/280), as follows: 69.08% (143/207) in rural and 72.60% (53/73) in a slum urban community. The seroprevalence in dogs was 52.35% (401/766), as follows: 71.74% (99/138) in rural and 48.08% (302/628) in urban area. In rural areas, there was no factor associated to risk of infection. In urban slum community, visualizing more than four rats at home was a factor statistically associated to seropositivity for human toxoplamosis. Infection of urban dogs was associated to age, contact with stray dogs or rodents, and free access to street. The results indicated a similar possibility of contact with Toxoplasma gondii between dogs and humans living in rural or slum urban areas of small municipalities.

Resumo A toxoplasmose é uma doença de distribuição mundial com importantes implicações em saúde pública. Os objetivos deste estudo foram determinar e identificar fatores associados à soroprevalência de anticorpos anti-Toxoplasma gondii em humanos e cães de Jataizinho, Paraná, Brasil. Amostras de soro de 280 humanos e 766 cães, de áreas rural e urbana, foram testadas pela reação de imunofluorescência indireta (RIFI). Foram consideradas positivas diluições 1:16. Informações epidemiológicas foram obtidas por meio de questionário individual e a tabulação dos dados foi realizada com EpiInfo 3.5.3 (CDC, Atlanta). A significância estatística foi avaliada por Chi-quadrado (2) ou Exato de Fisher com nível de significância de 5,0 %. A soroprevalência em humanos foi como segue: 70,00% (196/280), 69,08% (143/207) em área rural e 72,60% (53/73) em uma comunidade urbana carente. Em cães, foi 52,35% (401/766), na área rural 71,74% (99/138) e na área urbana 48,08% (302/628). Nas áreas rurais não houve fator estatisticamente associado ao risco de toxoplasmose. Na área urbana, visualizar mais do que quatro ratos em casa foi fator associado à soropositividade para toxoplasmose em humanos. A soropositividade em cães urbanos apresentou associação à idade, ao contato com cães errantes ou roedores e com acesso livre à rua. Os resultados indicaram semelhante possibilidade de contato com Toxoplasma gondii entre cães e humanos residentes em áreas rurais ou urbanas carentes de pequenos municípios.

Cross-sectional study of Leptospira spp. and Brucela abortus in goat herds from Paraná state, Brazil

Background: Leptospirosis and brucellosis are zoonosis worldwide distributed that have great economic importance, especially in goats. This study aimed to carry out a cross-sectional study to determine the prevalence of anti-Leptospira spp. and anti-Brucella abortus antibodies and to determine epidemiological variables associated to infection by these ethiological agents in goats. Materials, Methods & Results: Serum samples were collected from 1055 goats of 95 properties distributed in 18 regional centers of Paraná State from April to August of 2010. Collected samples were submitted to microscopic agglutination test (MAT) for the detection of anti-Leptospira spp. antibodies with 22 reference serovars: Australis, Bratislava, Autumnalis, Butembo, Castellonis, Bataviae, Canicola, Fortbragg, Whitcombi, Cynopteri, Grippotyphosa, Hebdomadis, Copenhageni, Icterohaemorrhagiae, Panama, Pomona, Pyrogenes, Hardjo, Wolffi, Shermani, Tarassovi and Londrina 1 (L1). The samples were also submitted to buffered acidified plate antigen test (BAPA) and 2-mercaptoethanol test (2-ME) to detect anti-Brucella abortus antibodies. The results obtained from epidemiological and serological study were analysed by Epi Info 3.5.3. We observed 9.9% (104/1055) of goats reagents in at least one serovar of Leptospira spp. and no reagent animal to Brucella abortus. The variables that were statistically [...](AU)

Cross-sectional study of Leptospira spp. and Brucela abortus in goat herds from Paraná state, Brazil

Background: Leptospirosis and brucellosis are zoonosis worldwide distributed that have great economic importance, especially in goats. This study aimed to carry out a cross-sectional study to determine the prevalence of anti-Leptospira spp. and anti-Brucella abortus antibodies and to determine epidemiological variables associated to infection by these ethiological agents in goats. Materials, Methods & Results: Serum samples were collected from 1055 goats of 95 properties distributed in 18 regional centers of Paraná State from April to August of 2010. Collected samples were submitted to microscopic agglutination test (MAT) for the detection of anti-Leptospira spp. antibodies with 22 reference serovars: Australis, Bratislava, Autumnalis, Butembo, Castellonis, Bataviae, Canicola, Fortbragg, Whitcombi, Cynopteri, Grippotyphosa, Hebdomadis, Copenhageni, Icterohaemorrhagiae, Panama, Pomona, Pyrogenes, Hardjo, Wolffi, Shermani, Tarassovi and Londrina 1 (L1). The samples were also submitted to buffered acidified plate antigen test (BAPA) and 2-mercaptoethanol test (2-ME) to detect anti-Brucella abortus antibodies. The results obtained from epidemiological and serological study were analysed by Epi Info 3.5.3. We observed 9.9% (104/1055) of goats reagents in at least one serovar of Leptospira spp. and no reagent animal to Brucella abortus. The variables that were statistically [...]

Cross-Sectional Study of Leptospira spp. and Brucela abortus in Goat Herds from Paraná State, Brazil

Background: Leptospirosis and brucellosis are zoonosis worldwide distributed that have great economic importance, especially in goats. This study aimed to carry out a cross-sectional study to determine the prevalence of anti-Leptospira spp. and anti-Brucella abortus antibodies and to determine epidemiological variables associated to infection by these ethiological agents in goats.Materials, Methods & Results: Serum samples were collected from 1055 goats of 95 properties distributed in 18 regional centers of Paraná State from April to August of 2010. Collected samples were submitted to microscopic agglutination test (MAT) for the detection of anti-Leptospira spp. antibodies with 22 reference serovars: Australis, Bratislava, Autumnalis, Butembo, Castellonis, Bataviae, Canicola, Fortbragg, Whitcombi, Cynopteri, Grippotyphosa, Hebdomadis, Copenhageni, Icterohaemorrhagiae, Panama, Pomona, Pyrogenes, Hardjo, Wolffi, Shermani, Tarassovi and Londrina 1 (L1). The samples were also submitted to buffered acidified plate antigen test (BAPA) and 2-mercaptoethanol test (2-ME) to detect anti-Brucella abortus antibodies. The results obtained from epidemiological and serological study were analysed by Epi Info 3.5.3. We observed 9.9% (104/1055) of goats reagents in at least one serovar of Leptospira spp. and no reagent animal to Brucella abortus. The variables that were statistically signif

Abordagem da saúde única na ocorrência de enteroparasitas em humanos de área urbana no norte do Paraná / Single health approach in the occurrence of enteroparasites in humans in the urban area in northern Paraná / Enfoque de la salud única en ocurrencia de enteroparásitos en humanos de la zona urbana en el norte de Paraná

As enteroparasitoses causadas por helmintos e protozoários infectam humanos e animais no mundo todo, e sua prevalência está relacionada à falta de hábitos de higiene pessoal em consequência do seu ciclo oral-fecal. No Brasil, como não são doenças de notificação obrigatória, é possível que sua prevalência esteja subnotificada. Em Londrina, não existem dados sobre a prevalência dessas parasitoses na população urbana adulta, que ofereçam suporte para delinear programas de saúde preventiva na comunidade. Foram coletadas amostras de fezes de 187 humanos residentes na área urbana de Londrina para pesquisa de enteroparasitas. Dados epidemiológicos foram coletados por meio de um questionário epidemiológico aplicado a todos os participantes. As variáveis associadas ao risco foram analisadas conforme foram relatadas pelos indivíduos parasitados. Foram discutidos: gênero, idade, renda familiar mensal, lavagem das mãos antes da alimentação e após utilizar o banheiro, água de consumo, ocorrência de diarreia nos últimos sete dias, abastecimento de água e rede de esgoto. Foram detectados ovos ou cistos de parasitas em 8/187 (4,27%) amostras investigadas. A ocorrência do protozoário Giardia spp. foi verificada em 7/187 (3,74%) amostras e o helminto Enterobius vermiculares em 1/187 (0,53%). Devido ao ciclo destes parasitas envolver a saúde humana, animal e do ambiente, é sugerido que a ocorrência das enteroparasitoses reduza por meio da abordagem de Saúde Única na área urbana de Londrina, PR.(AU)

Intestinal parasitic infections are caused by helminthes and protozoa infecting humans and animals worldwide. Its prevalence is related to lack of personal hygiene habits due to its oral-fecal cycle. In Brazil, they do not require compulsory notification and, therefore, it is possible that the prevalence is underreported. In Londrina, there are no data on the prevalence of these parasites in the adult urban population to support the designing of preventive health programs in the community. Stool samples were collected from 187 human residents in the urban area of Londrina in order to research for enteroparasites. Parasite eggs or cysts were detected in 8/187 (4.27%) samples investigated. The occurrence of Giardia spp. was seen in 7/187 (3.74%) samples, while Enterobius vermicularis was observed in 1/187 (0.53%) sample. Epidemiological data were collected using an epidemiological questionnaire applied to all participants. The variables associated with the risk were analyzed and reported by infected individuals, such as: gender, age, family income, washing hands before eating and after using the bathroom, water consumption, occurrence of diarrhea in the past seven days, water supply and sewage system. Since the parasite cycle involves human, animal and environmental health, it is suggested that the occurrence of intestinal parasites be reduce through the Single Health approach in the urban area of Londrina, PR.(AU)

Las enteroparasitosis causadas por helmintos y protozoarios infectan humanos y animales en todo el mundo, y su prevalencia está relacionada con la falta de hábitos de higiene personal, como resultado de su ciclo fecal-oral. En Brasil, no son enfermedades de declaración obligatoria, es posible que su prevalencia no se denuncie. En Londrina, no hay datos sobre la prevalencia de esos parásitos en la población adulta urbana, que apoyen el diseño de programas preventivos de salud en la comunidad. Se recogieron muestras de heces de 187 residentes humanos en el área urbana de Londrina para investigación de enteroparásitos. Datos epidemiológicos se han recogido mediante un cuestionario epidemiológico administrado a todos los participantes. Las variables asociadas al riesgo se analizaron conforme relatado por los individuos infectados. Se discutieron: género, edad, renta familiar mensual, lavarse las manos antes de comer y después de ir al baño, agua de consumo, la aparición de diarrea en los últimos siete días, el suministro de agua y alcantarillado. Se ha detectado huevos o quistes de parásitos en 8/187 (4,27%) muestras investigadas. La aparición del protozoário Giardia spp. se observó en 7/187 (3,74%) muestras y el helminto Enterobius vermicularis en 1/187 (0,53%). Debido al ciclo de estos parásitos involucrar la salud humana, animal y el medio ambiente, se sugiere que la aparición de enteroparasitosis se reduzca a través del enfoque de Salud Única en la zona urbana de Londrina, PR.(AU)

Abordagem da saúde única na ocorrência de enteroparasitas em humanos de área urbana no norte do Paraná / Single health approach in the occurrence of enteroparasites in humans in the urban area in northern Paraná / Enfoque de la salud única en ocurrencia de enteroparásitos en humanos de la zona urbana en el norte de Paraná

As enteroparasitoses causadas por helmintos e protozoários infectam humanos e animais no mundo todo, e sua prevalência está relacionada à falta de hábitos de higiene pessoal em consequência do seu ciclo oral-fecal. No Brasil, como não são doenças de notificação obrigatória, é possível que sua prevalência esteja subnotificada. Em Londrina, não existem dados sobre a prevalência dessas parasitoses na população urbana adulta, que ofereçam suporte para delinear programas de saúde preventiva na comunidade. Foram coletadas amostras de fezes de 187 humanos residentes na área urbana de Londrina para pesquisa de enteroparasitas. Dados epidemiológicos foram coletados por meio de um questionário epidemiológico aplicado a todos os participantes. As variáveis associadas ao risco foram analisadas conforme foram relatadas pelos indivíduos parasitados. Foram discutidos: gênero, idade, renda familiar mensal, lavagem das mãos antes da alimentação e após utilizar o banheiro, água de consumo, ocorrência de diarreia nos últimos sete dias, abastecimento de água e rede de esgoto. Foram detectados ovos ou cistos de parasitas em 8/187 (4,27%) amostras investigadas. A ocorrência do protozoário Giardia spp. foi verificada em 7/187 (3,74%) amostras e o helminto Enterobius vermiculares em 1/187 (0,53%). Devido ao ciclo destes parasitas envolver a saúde humana, animal e do ambiente, é sugerido que a ocorrência das enteroparasitoses reduza por meio da abordagem de Saúde Única na área urbana de Londrina, PR.

Intestinal parasitic infections are caused by helminthes and protozoa infecting humans and animals worldwide. Its prevalence is related to lack of personal hygiene habits due to its oral-fecal cycle. In Brazil, they do not require compulsory notification and, therefore, it is possible that the prevalence is underreported. In Londrina, there are no data on the prevalence of these parasites in the adult urban population to support the designing of preventive health programs in the community. Stool samples were collected from 187 human residents in the urban area of Londrina in order to research for enteroparasites. Parasite eggs or cysts were detected in 8/187 (4.27%) samples investigated. The occurrence of Giardia spp. was seen in 7/187 (3.74%) samples, while Enterobius vermicularis was observed in 1/187 (0.53%) sample. Epidemiological data were collected using an epidemiological questionnaire applied to all participants. The variables associated with the risk were analyzed and reported by infected individuals, such as: gender, age, family income, washing hands before eating and after using the bathroom, water consumption, occurrence of diarrhea in the past seven days, water supply and sewage system. Since the parasite cycle involves human, animal and environmental health, it is suggested that the occurrence of intestinal parasites be reduce through the Single Health approach in the urban area of Londrina, PR.

Las enteroparasitosis causadas por helmintos y protozoarios infectan humanos y animales en todo el mundo, y su prevalencia está relacionada con la falta de hábitos de higiene personal, como resultado de su ciclo fecal-oral. En Brasil, no son enfermedades de declaración obligatoria, es posible que su prevalencia no se denuncie. En Londrina, no hay datos sobre la prevalencia de esos parásitos en la población adulta urbana, que apoyen el diseño de programas preventivos de salud en la comunidad. Se recogieron muestras de heces de 187 residentes humanos en el área urbana de Londrina para investigación de enteroparásitos. Datos epidemiológicos se han recogido mediante un cuestionario epidemiológico administrado a todos los participantes. Las variables asociadas al riesgo se analizaron conforme relatado por los individuos infectados. Se discutieron: género, edad, renta familiar mensual, lavarse las manos antes de comer y después de ir al baño, agua de consumo, la aparición de diarrea en los últimos siete días, el suministro de agua y alcantarillado. Se ha detectado huevos o quistes de parásitos en 8/187 (4,27%) muestras investigadas. La aparición del protozoário Giardia spp. se observó en 7/187 (3,74%) muestras y el helminto Enterobius vermicularis en 1/187 (0,53%). Debido al ciclo de estos parásitos involucrar la salud humana, animal y el medio ambiente, se sugiere que la aparición de enteroparasitosis se reduzca a través del enfoque de Salud Única en la zona urbana de Londrina, PR.

Zoonoses em cães e gatos atendidos em Projeto de Controle de Natalidade: Toxoplasma gondii, Leishmania spp. e Leptospira spp., sorodiagnóstico e epidemiologia / Zoonosis in dogs and cats attended by the Birth Control Project: Toxoplasma gondii, Leishmania spp. and Leptospira spp., serodiagnosis and epidemiology

A proximidade da relação homem-animal tem aumentado o risco de transmissão de doenças de caráter zoonótico. O objetivo desse trabalho foi determinar a prevalência de anticorpos IgG anti-Toxoplasma gondii, anti- Leishmania spp. e anti- Leptospira spp. nos cães e gatos atendidos pelo Projeto Controle de Natalidade (PCN) nos anos de 2004 a 2012 e verificar a significância estatística de variáveis ambientais e da população de estudo à presença dos agentes infecciosos. Amostras de sangue de 271 cães e 415 gatos foram colhidas por venopunção jugular ou cefálica para a posterior obtenção dos soros. Estes foram submetidos à técnica de imunofluorescência indireta para detecção de anticorpos IgG anti-T. gondii e anti-Leishmania spp. e à técnica de soroaglutinação microscópica para detecção de anticorpos anti- Leptospira spp. A tabulação dos dados foi realizada utilizando-se o pacote estatístico EpiInfo (3.4.3). Dos soros caninos examinados, 20,6% (56/271), 1,3% (3/236) e 21,6% (51/236) foram positivos para T. gondii, Leishmania spp. e Leptospira spp., respectivamente. Encontrou-se maior prevalência de anticorpos anti- T. gondii em cães sem raça definida (p=0, 0009), em cães alimentados com carne crua ou mal cozida (p= 0,0101) e naqueles que não receberam vacina polivalente (p= 0,0147). Não houve associação estatística entre as variáveis avaliadas no questionário epidemiológico para leishmaniose e leptospirose. Dos soros felinos analisados, 20,9% (87/415) foram positivos para T. gondii. Maiores prevalências foram observadas nos felinos com hábito de caçar roedores (p= 0,0388) e que não recebem água tratada (p= 0,0294). Os resultados obtidos confirmam a importância dos fatores de risco ingestão de carne crua ou mal cozida, ingestão de água não tratada e predação de roedores para infecção por T. gondii. Demonstrou-se baixa prevalência ao sorodiagnostico para Leishmania spp. Os sorovares de Leptospira spp. mais frequentes foram Copenhageni, Canicola e Butembo.(AU)

Increasing human-animal proximity has also increased risks of zoonotic disease transmission. This study measured the prevalence of anti-Toxoplasma gondii, anti-Leishmania spp. and anti-Leptospira spp. IgG antibodies in dogs and cats attended by the Birth Control Project (BCP) from 2004 to 2012 to determine which environmental variables were significantly associated with infectious agents in the study population. Blood samples from 271 dogs and 415 cats were collected by jugular or cephalic venipuncture for serological analysis. Indirect immunofluorescence assays were used to detect anti-T. gondii and anti-Leishmania spp. IgG antibodies and microscopic serum-agglutination tests were used to detect anti- Leptospira spp. antibodies. Data tabulation and statistical analyses were performed using EpiInfo (3.4.3). Among canine sera samples, 20.6% (56/271), 1.3% (3/236), and 21.6% (51/236) were positive for T. gondii, Leishmania spp., and Leptospira spp., respectively. Higher T. gondii prevalence was found in dogs of unknown breeding history (p=0.0009), those fed raw or undercooked meat (p=0.0101), and those that did not receive the polyvalent vaccine (p=0.0147). There was no statistically significant association between leishmaniosis and leptospirosis and variables evaluated in the epidemiological questionnaire. Among feline sera samples, 20.9% (87/415) were positive for T. gondii. The highest prevalence rates were observed in felines that hunted rodents (p=0.0388) and that consumed untreated water (p=0.0294). These results confirmed that ingestion of raw or undercooked meat, drinking untreated water, and predation of rodents were important risk factors for T. gondii infection. A low Leishmania spp. serodiagnostic prevalence was observed. The most frequent Leptospira spp. serovars were Copenhageni, Canicola, and Butembo.(AU)

First record of Borrelia burgdorferi B31 strain in Dermacentor nitens ticks in the northern region of Parana (Brazil)

The aim of this study was to investigate the presence of DNA of Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato (s.l.) in ticks that feed on horses used for animal traction in rural Jataizinho, Parana, Brazil. Between February and June 2008, a total of 224 ticks was collected of which 75% were identified as Dermacentor nitens and 25% as Amblyomma cajenense. To amplify B. burgdorferi s.l. DNA, the intergenic space region (ISR) between the 5S (rrf) 23S (rrl) rRNA genes was used as targets for nested-PCR. Two ticks of the D. nitens species were positive for B. burgdorferi s.l. Both species showed a fragment of 184 bp, but the sequencing revealed 99.9% homology with the B. burgdorferi sensu stricto (s.s.) strain B31. These results showed, for the first time, the presence of spirochete DNA infecting ticks that parasitize horses used for animal traction, in the rural municipality mentioned. In conclusion, this study opens up promising prospects for determining the infection rate of B. burgdorferi s.s. genospecies or other species in the equine population, as well as the impact of the infection rate on Lyme disease in the state of Parana.(AU)

Toxoplasmosis, leptospirosis and brucellosis in stray dogs housed at the shelter in Umuarama municipality, Paraná, Brazil

Background : Leptospirosis, toxoplasmosis and brucellosis are diseases with worldwide distribution. Among stray dogs, these zoonoses are facilitated by direct contact with other animal species, by the habit of scavenging garbage and hunting in search of food, drinking standing water, smelling other animals' urine, licking female genitalia and the sexual act itself. The objective of this study was to detect antibodies anti-Toxoplasma gondii, anti-Leptospira spp., anti-Brucella canis and anti-Brucella abortus in stray dogs housed in shelters at Umuarama city, Paraná, Brazil. In order to detect toxoplasmosis, indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA) was performed, agglutination microscopic (MAT) test for leptospirosis and agar gel immunodiffusion (AGID) and buffered acidified antigen (BAA) tests for brucellosis. Results : Of the 175 serum samples analyzed, 70.85% were considered positive for toxoplasmosis by IFA, 20% by MAT for leptospirosis and 2.85% by AGID for Brucella canis. Conclusions : The serological results of this study showed that stray dogs housed at the private shelter are potential carriers of these three different zoonoses and contribute to the spread and maintenance of these etiologic agents in the urban area of Umuarama (PR), Brazil.(AU)

Zoonoses in humans from small rural properties in Jataizinho, Parana, Brazil

The aim of this study was to conduct a serological survey for Lyme diseases, brucellosis, leptospirosis and toxoplasmosis and identify the risk variables related to these zoonoses in humans living in the rural area of Jataizinho, state of Parana, Brazil. A total of 63 rural properties were surveyed. Additionally, 207 serum samples collected from these rural area inhabitants were tested for indirect immunofluorescence (IFI) and western blots (WB) were performed to detect Borrelia burgdorferi (sensu lato); a tamponated acidified antigen test (AAT) and 2-mercaptoethanol (2-ME) were used to detect antibodies of Brucella abortus; the microscopic agglutination test (MAT) was carried out to detect antibodies anti-Leptospira spp. and IFI was used to find antibodies of Toxoplasma gondii. Two of the samples (0.96%) were reactive for Lyme borreliosis, three (1.4%) for brucellosis, 25 (12.1%) for leptospirosis and 143 (69.1%) for toxoplasmosis. Although the town of Jataizinho has a human development index (IDH) that was considered to be average (0.733) in the state of Parana, the low social, economic and cultural conditions of the population from small rural properties have resulted in lack of basic information on animal health and direct or indirect contact with the various species of domestic animals, wildlife and ticks have probably contributed to the prevalence levels found. These results show the need for additional regional studies in order to determine the epidemiological characteristics of these diseases as well as their respective vectors and reservoirs so that effective prophylaxis can be administered in the human population.(AU)

Toxoplasmosis, leptospirosis and brucellosis in stray dogs housed at the shelter in Umuarama municipality, Paraná, Brazil

Background : Leptospirosis, toxoplasmosis and brucellosis are diseases with worldwide distribution. Among stray dogs, these zoonoses are facilitated by direct contact with other animal species, by the habit of scavenging garbage and hunting in search of food, drinking standing water, smelling other animals' urine, licking female genitalia and the sexual act itself. The objective of this study was to detect antibodies anti-Toxoplasma gondii, anti-Leptospira spp., anti-Brucella canis and anti-Brucella abortus in stray dogs housed in shelters at Umuarama city, Paraná, Brazil. In order to detect toxoplasmosis, indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA) was performed, agglutination microscopic (MAT) test for leptospirosis and agar gel immunodiffusion (AGID) and buffered acidified antigen (BAA) tests for brucellosis. Results : Of the 175 serum samples analyzed, 70.85% were considered positive for toxoplasmosis by IFA, 20% by MAT for leptospirosis and 2.85% by AGID for Brucella canis. Conclusions : The serological results of this study showed that stray dogs housed at the private shelter are potential carriers of these three different zoonoses and contribute to the spread and maintenance of these etiologic agents in the urban area of Umuarama (PR), Brazil.

Toxoplasmosis, leptospirosis and brucellosis in stray dogs housed at the shelter in Umuarama municipality, Paraná, Brazil

Background : Leptospirosis, toxoplasmosis and brucellosis are diseases with worldwide distribution. Among stray dogs, these zoonoses are facilitated by direct contact with other animal species, by the habit of scavenging garbage and hunting in search of food, drinking standing water, smelling other animals' urine, licking female genitalia and the sexual act itself. The objective of this study was to detect antibodies anti-Toxoplasma gondii, anti-Leptospira spp., anti-Brucella canis and anti-Brucella abortus in stray dogs housed in shelters at Umuarama city, Paraná, Brazil. In order to detect toxoplasmosis, indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA) was performed, agglutination microscopic (MAT) test for leptospirosis and agar gel immunodiffusion (AGID) and buffered acidified antigen (BAA) tests for brucellosis. Results : Of the 175 serum samples analyzed, 70.85% were considered positive for toxoplasmosis by IFA, 20% by MAT for leptospirosis and 2.85% by AGID for Brucella canis. Conclusions : The serological results of this study showed that stray dogs housed at the private shelter are potential carriers of these three different zoonoses and contribute to the spread and maintenance of these etiologic agents in the urban area of Umuarama (PR), Brazil.

Occurrence of Ehrlichia canis and Anaplasma platys in household dogs from northern Parana / Ocorrência de Ehrlichia canis e Anaplasma platys em cães domiciliados da região norte do Paraná

Canine monocytic ehrlichiosis caused primarily by Ehrlichia canis and canine thrombocytic anaplasmosis induced by Anaplasma platys are important emerging zoonotic tick-borne diseases of dogs. There is evidence that these pathogens can also affect humans. This study evaluated the presence of E. canis and A. platys in blood samples collected from 256 domiciled dogs in the municipality of Jataizinho, located in north region of the State of Parana, Brazil, by PCR assay. The occurrence of E. canis and A. platys was 16.4% (42/256) and 19.4% (49/256), respectively; while 5.47% (14/256) of the dogs evaluated were co-infected by these two organisms. The presence of E. canis and A. platys was not significantly associated with the variables evaluated (sex, age, outdoor access, and presence of ticks during blood collection). Infection of dogs by E. canis was associated with anemia and thrombocytopenia, while infection induced by A. platys was related only to thrombocytopenia. Canine monocytic ehrlichiosis and canine thrombocytic anaplasmosis should be included in the differential diagnoses when these hematological alterations are observed during routine laboratory evaluation of dogs.(AU)

Erliquiose monocítica canina, causada principalmente por Ehrlichia canis, e anaplasmose trombocítica canina, devida a infecção com Anaplasma platys, são importantes doenças transmitidas por carrapatos que acometem os cães, com evidências que podem também acometer o homem. O presente estudo avaliou a ocorrência desses agentes em amostras de sangue de 256 cães domiciliados na cidade de Jataizinho, na região Norte do Paraná, Brasil, utilizando a técnica da Reação em Cadeia da Polimerase (PCR). A ocorrência de E. canis e A. platys foi de 16,4% (42/256) e 19,4% (49/256), respectivamente, com 5,47% (14/256) dos animais apresentando coinfecção. Não foi observada associação significativa com as variáveis sexo, idade, acesso à rua e presença de carrapatos no momento da coleta de sangue. A infecção por E. canis teve relação com anemia e com trombocitopenia, enquanto a infecção por A. platys apresentou relação apenas com trombocitopenia. Com base nos resultados obtidos, reforçou-se a necessidade de que erliquiose e anaplasmose canina devem estar entre os diagnósticos diferenciais, quando da detecção de anemia e trombocitopenia em exames laboratoriais.(AU)

Occurrence of Ehrlichia canis and Anaplasma platys in household dogs from northern Parana

Canine monocytic ehrlichiosis caused primarily by Ehrlichia canis and canine thrombocytic anaplasmosis induced by Anaplasma platys are important emerging zoonotic tick-borne diseases of dogs. There is evidence that these pathogens can also affect humans. This study evaluated the presence of E. canis and A. platys in blood samples collected from 256 domiciled dogs in the municipality of Jataizinho, located in north region of the State of Parana, Brazil, by PCR assay. The occurrence of E. canis and A. platys was 16.4% (42/256) and 19.4% (49/256), respectively; while 5.47% (14/256) of the dogs evaluated were co-infected by these two organisms. The presence of E. canis and A. platys was not significantly associated with the variables evaluated (sex, age, outdoor access, and presence of ticks during blood collection). Infection of dogs by E. canis was associated with anemia and thrombocytopenia, while infection induced by A. platys was related only to thrombocytopenia. Canine monocytic ehrlichiosis and canine thrombocytic anaplasmosis should be included in the differential diagnoses when these hematological alterations are observed during routine laboratory evaluation of dogs.

Erliquiose monocítica canina, causada principalmente por Ehrlichia canis, e anaplasmose trombocítica canina, devida a infecção com Anaplasma platys, são importantes doenças transmitidas por carrapatos que acometem os cães, com evidências que podem também acometer o homem. O presente estudo avaliou a ocorrência desses agentes em amostras de sangue de 256 cães domiciliados na cidade de Jataizinho, na região Norte do Paraná, Brasil, utilizando a técnica da Reação em Cadeia da Polimerase (PCR). A ocorrência de E. canis e A. platys foi de 16,4% (42/256) e 19,4% (49/256), respectivamente, com 5,47% (14/256) dos animais apresentando coinfecção. Não foi observada associação significativa com as variáveis sexo, idade, acesso à rua e presença de carrapatos no momento da coleta de sangue. A infecção por E. canis teve relação com anemia e com trombocitopenia, enquanto a infecção por A. platys apresentou relação apenas com trombocitopenia. Com base nos resultados obtidos, reforçou-se a necessidade de que erliquiose e anaplasmose canina devem estar entre os diagnósticos diferenciais, quando da detecção de anemia e trombocitopenia em exames laboratoriais.

Occurrence of Ehrlichia canis and Anaplasma platys in household dogs from northern Parana

Canine monocytic ehrlichiosis caused primarily by Ehrlichia canis and canine thrombocytic anaplasmosis induced by Anaplasma platys are important emerging zoonotic tick-borne diseases of dogs. There is evidence that these pathogens can also affect humans. This study evaluated the presence of E. canis and A. platys in blood samples collected from 256 domiciled dogs in the municipality of Jataizinho, located in north region of the State of Parana, Brazil, by PCR assay. The occurrence of E. canis and A. platys was 16.4% (42/256) and 19.4% (49/256), respectively; while 5.47% (14/256) of the dogs evaluated were co-infected by these two organisms. The presence of E. canis and A. platys was not significantly associated with the variables evaluated (sex, age, outdoor access, and presence of ticks during blood collection). Infection of dogs by E. canis was associated with anemia and thrombocytopenia, while infection induced by A. platys was related only to thrombocytopenia. Canine monocytic ehrlichiosis and canine thrombocytic anaplasmosis should be included in the differential diagnoses when these hematological alterations are observed during routine laboratory evaluation of dogs.

Erliquiose monocítica canina, causada principalmente por Ehrlichia canis, e anaplasmose trombocítica canina, devida a infecção com Anaplasma platys, são importantes doenças transmitidas por carrapatos que acometem os cães, com evidências que podem também acometer o homem. O presente estudo avaliou a ocorrência desses agentes em amostras de sangue de 256 cães domiciliados na cidade de Jataizinho, na região Norte do Paraná, Brasil, utilizando a técnica da Reação em Cadeia da Polimerase (PCR). A ocorrência de E. canis e A. platys foi de 16,4% (42/256) e 19,4% (49/256), respectivamente, com 5,47% (14/256) dos animais apresentando coinfecção. Não foi observada associação significativa com as variáveis sexo, idade, acesso à rua e presença de carrapatos no momento da coleta de sangue. A infecção por E. canis teve relação com anemia e com trombocitopenia, enquanto a infecção por A. platys apresentou relação apenas com trombocitopenia. Com base nos resultados obtidos, reforçou-se a necessidade de que erliquiose e anaplasmose canina devem estar entre os diagnósticos diferenciais, quando da detecção de anemia e trombocitopenia em exames laboratoriais.

Ocorrência de carrapatos (acari: ixodidae) parasitando equinos no município de Jataizinho, Paraná / Ocurrencia de garrapatas (acari: ixodidae) parasitando equinos en el municipio de Jataizinho, Paraná / Occurence of ticks (acari: ixodidae) parasiting equines in the municipality of Jataizinho, Paraná

Devido a suspeita de anticorpos contra Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato (s.l) em moradores da área rural do município de Jataizinho (PR), foram coletados, entre fevereiro a junho de 2008, ixodídeos adultos parasitando equinos de 21 propriedades rurais deste município. Os 224 ixodídeos adultos de equinos foram identificados como Amblyomma cajennense (25%) e Dermacentor nitens (75%). Nas áreas de coleta desta pesquisa, o parasitismo humano por carrapatos era frequentemente relatado pelos moradores rurais. O estudo dos ixodídeos parasitando equinos em relação à doença de Lyme é um assunto pouco explorado e entendido no Brasil. No estado do Paraná (PR) é a primeira vez que a doença de Lyme está sendo pesquisada, o que ressalta a importância deste estudo nos ixodídeos capturados em equinos, para o entendimento da epidemiologia desta enfermidade transmitida pelo carrapato em outras regiões do Brasil. (AU)

Due to the possibility of antibodies against Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato (sl) in the rural area of Jataizinho (PR), adult ixodids parasitizing horses 21 farms in this municipality were collected between February and June 2008. 224 adult ixodid horses were identified as Amblyomma cajennense (25%) and Dermacentor nitens (75%). In the collection areas of this research, human infestation by ticks are frequently reported by rural residents. The study of ixodid parasites of horses in relation to Lyme disease is a little explored and understood subject in Brazil. In the state of Paraná (PR) it is the first time that Lyme disease is being studied empahsizing the importance of this study in ixodid from horses to understand the epidemiology of this disease transmitted by ticks in other regions of Brazil.(AU)

Debido a sospecha de anticuerpos contra Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato (s.l) en moradores del área rural del municipio de Jataizinho (PR), se colectó entre febrero a junio de 2008, ixodídeos adultos parasitando equinos de 21 propiedades rurales de este municipio. Los 224 ixodídeos adultos de equinos fueron identificados como Amblyomma cajennense (25%) y Dermacentor nitens (75%). En las áreas de coleta de esta investigación, el parasitismo humano por garrapatas era frecuentemente relatado por los moradores rurales. El estudio de los ixodídeos parasitando equinos en relación a la enfermedad de Lyme es un asunto poco explotado y entendido en Brasil. En el estado de Paraná es la primera vez que la enfermedad de Lyme está siendo investigada, lo que resalta la importancia de este estudio en los ixodídeos capturados en equinos, para el entendimiento de la epidemiología de esta enfermedad transmitida por garrapata en otras regiones de Brasil.(AU)