Molecular detection of Leishmania spp. in dogs and a cat from Doha, Qatar

Parasites & Vectors

Ana Margarida Alho¹  Luís Cardoso²  Domenico Otranto³  Maria Stefania Latrofa³  Vito Colella³  Clara Lima⁴ 

[1] CIISA, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon (ULisboa);Department of Veterinary Sciences and Animal and Veterinary Research Centre (CECAV), University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro (UTAD);Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, University of Bari;Parkview Pet Center and Cityview Veterinary Clinic;

关键词: Cat;    Dog;    Leishmania;    Qatar;    Vector-borne diseases;    Zoonosis;   

DOI  :  10.1186/s13071-019-3394-y

来源: DOAJ

【 摘 要 】

Abstract Background Canine and feline leishmanioses are increasingly reported worldwide and represent a threat to both animal and human health. Despite their relevance, data about leishmanioses in companion animals in the east-central part of the Arabian Peninsula are unavailable. Therefore, we investigated the occurrence of Leishmania spp. in dogs and cats from Qatar. Methods From March 2016 to May 2018, 199 pets (120 dogs and 79 cats) living in Doha or its outskirts were included in this study. From each animal a blood sample was collected and tested for Leishmania spp. by quantitative real-time PCR. Results Out of the 199 animals, four (2.0%) were positive for Leishmania spp., including three dogs (2.5%) and one cat (1.3%). Conclusions All positive animals were born in Qatar and had not travelled overseas, suggesting that infection was locally acquired. Considering the occurrence of Leishmania spp. and its potential impact on the health of animals and humans, it is crucial to increase scientific knowledge in order to plan screening and regular prophylaxis against sand fly vectors to reduce the risk of infection.

【 授权许可】

Unknown