Prevalence of Zoonotic Parasitic Infections among Domestic Pets and Awareness of Pet Owners: A Clinic-based Study in Matara

Abstract

Background: Zoonotic parasitic infections (ZPI) are parasitic diseases that are transmitted from animals to humans. Canine dirofilariasis caused by Dirofilaria repens and leishmaniasis caused by Leishmania donovani are vector-borne ZPI with significant human health implications in Sri Lanka. Pet owners' awareness is crucial in disease prevention. Objectives: To assess the prevalence of dirofilariasis and leishmaniasis in household pets and to evaluate pet owners’ knowledge and awareness of ZPI in Matara Methods: Blood samples (n=49) were randomly collected from dogs presented to selected pet clinics in Matara. Giemsa-stained thick blood smears were examined for D. repens microfilariae, and Giemsa-stained thin blood smears for Leishmania amastigotes. The rk39 rapid immunochromatographic test was used to detect antibodies against the rK39 antigen of L. donovani. ZPI awareness was assessed using a standardised questionnaire. Data were analysed using SPSS version 21.0. Results: Among 49 dogs, one (2.04%) was positive for D. repens microfilariae, and three (6.12%) tested positive for rk39 antibodies, while none had Leishmania amastigotes. The prevalences of dirofilariasis and leishmaniasis among domestic dogs were 2.04% and 6.12%, respectively. Of pet owners, 79.6% were aware that pet diseases could be transmitted to humans, with significantly higher awareness (92%) in the 31-60 age group (p<0.05). However, 94% of pet owners were unaware of symptoms and preventive measures of common zoonotic diseases. Only 53.1% had received information on ZPI from veterinarians or reliable sources. Conclusions: The low prevalence of canine dirofilariasis in this study sample may be due to the regular deworming of domestic pets compared to strays. The higher leishmaniasis prevalence suggests that dogs may act as reservoir hosts, posing a challenge for leishmaniasis transmission and control in Sri Lanka. Public awareness of ZPI, its transmission and prevention must be improved to enhance early detection and management, ultimately reducing reservoirs and limiting human transmission.