Authors : Morakot Kaewthamasorn , Anuchai Niwetpathomwat , Sukullaya Assarasakorn , Sakchai Wongsamee and Sonthaya Tiawsirisup
Abstract: The potential role of dogs as reservoirs for zoonotic diseases has been recognized as a significant public health concern worldwide. The surveillance and control of canine parasitic zoonoses in Thailand are considered to be low in priority. The aims of this study were to evaluate the prevalence rate of gastrointestinal parasitic infection of the dogs and to identify the parasite ova in the faeces contaminated in the public areas in Bangkok, Thailand (i.e., the playground at schools, parks and temples). A cross-sectional study was designed to determine baseline data in the areas. A total of 316 faeces were collected randomly from 8 districts during January to June, 2006. The common gastrointestinal parasites observed in this study were hookworm, ascarid, dog tapeworm and coccidia. The overall prevalence rate of gastrointestinal parasites in the areas was 75%. The highest prevalence rate was observed at Khlong Toei district (92.8%) and was significantly different from Patumwan, Yan Nawa and Phra Khanong districts (p<0.05). Based on this observation, it was suggested that the possible transmission of these parasites to humans should be a concern. The control of these some possible zoonotic disease and control of dogs living in the public areas is still necessary. The readily available and inexpensive laboratory method used in this study might be applicable and more practical tool for screening and monitoring the diseases in the developing countries.
Morakot Kaewthamasorn , Anuchai Niwetpathomwat , Sukullaya Assarasakorn , Sakchai Wongsamee and Sonthaya Tiawsirisup , 2006. A Surveillance of Canine Gastrointestinal Parasites in Fecal Samples from Public Areas of Bangkok, Thailand . Journal of Animal and Veterinary Advances, 5: 1209-1213.