Molecular detection of zoonotical,spp. andin wild mesocarnivores from Eastern Spain.

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Changes in land use and urbanization have altered the distribution and behaviour patterns of wildlife, increasing contacts between people and wild carnivores, elevating the risk of disease transmission. Evidence of enteric parasite presence in wild mesocarnivores from Spain is scarce, particularly in the eastern region. METHODS: We surveyed 221 fecal samples collected in 2018-2023 from nine mesocarnivore species across 85 municipalities in the Valencian Community (eastern Spain). Molecular assays were used to detect,spp, and, and positives were characterized by genetic sequencing when possible. RESULTS: Overall prevalences were 6.8 % forand for(15 of 221), and 8.6 % for(19 of 221).was detected in seven of nine species,in four, andin six. Co-infections occurred but any sample harbored all three parasites. Sequencing revealed multiplespecies with relevance for humans and wildlife (including,,,,, and. sp mouse genotype II), andsubtypes 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 15 in several hosts. As in other studies, genotyping ofwas unsuccessful. DISCUSSION: Detection of prey-associatedin predators supports trophic transmission. The presence of those zoonotic enteroparasites in wild mesocarnivores highlight the need for integrated wildlife and public health surveillance at the human-wildlife interface and for further work to resolve parasite sources, transmission pathways, and the conditions that facilitate cross-species spread.