Factores de riesgos asociados a prevalencia de Giardia spp., en caninos (lupus familiaris canis) de la parroquia Llacao

Abstract

Giardia, a parasitic microorganism, threatens to various animal species, including humans. Given its zoonotic nature, it holds significant implications for public health. The parasite spreads through infected water, contact with feces from other animals, or ingestion of food contaminated with fecal matter, primarily transmitted through oral means. This research aimed to ascertain the risk factors linked to the prevalence of Giardia spp. microorganism in 160 canine stool samples from the Llacao parish. Two techniques were employed: an immunochromatography kit with equivalent specificity and sensitivity to the Faust method. The obtained prevalence rate was 17%, with 27 animals testing positive for the parasite. Both tests proved reliable. A survey of owners and clinical records was conducted to identify associative causes for the onset of this pathology. Results concerning risk factors (age, sex, hygiene, prior pathologies, diet, and non-specific cohabitation) indicated that puppies exhibited a higher prevalence at 13.1%, males tested positive at 12.5%, mixed feeding led to 11.9% positive results, cohabitation with other canines resulted in 7.5% positive cases, annual grooming showed 11.3% positive cases, and those without prior illnesses recorded 15% positive cases. The study spanned all neighborhoods of the Llacao parish, presenting at least one case of Giardia spp. infection among animals. Thus, the presence of this pathology remains emergent in the area.