Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Heartworm infection in dogs from coastal Alagoas, Brazil
By Leão Filho, Walter Franklin Bernardino et al.·Published in Revista brasileira de parasitologia veterinaria = Brazilian journal of veterinary parasitology : Orgao Oficial do Colegio Brasileiro de Parasitologia Veterinaria·2024·Universidade Federal de Alagoas - UFAL·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Dirofilaria immitis in dogs from the coastal tourist region of the state of Alagoas, Brazil.
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A study found that 12.7% of dogs tested in the coastal region of Alagoas, Brazil, were infected with heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis), which can cause serious health issues. Dogs that had traveled were more likely to be infected, suggesting that exposure to certain environments increases the risk. Regular check-ups and preventive measures are important for dogs in these areas to avoid heartworm disease. If you live in or visit coastal regions, make sure your dog is tested and on heartworm prevention.
People also search for: dog heartworm symptoms · how to prevent heartworm in dogs · dog travel and heartworm risk
Abstract
Canine dirofilariasis, caused by Dirofilaria immitis, is prevalent worldwide. However, the frequency of canine infection in the state of Alagoas, Brazil is scarcely unknown. This study aimed to evaluate the frequency of D. immitis infection in dogs from the coastal municipalities of Alagoas and analyze the risk factors associated with the infection. A cross-sectional study was performed using 426 dogs of different breeds and sex distributed across 15 coastal municipalities in the state of Alagoas. Blood samples were collected from each dog and analyzed for circulating microfilariae and free D. immitis antigens. To investigate the risk factors associated with D. immitis infection, we collected information on dog environments using an epidemiological questionnaire. The results revealed that 12.7% of dogs tested positive for D. immitis. Dogs with travel history were 3.52 times more likely to be infected. Thus, infected dogs in the coastal region of Alagoas should be regularly monitored and the public health system should plan strategies to control this zoonotic disease.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39292066/