Parasitic Zoonoses from Dogs: How Common are they in Zambia

Abstract

Zoonotic parasitic diseases including helminths and protozoa are common especially in areas with poor living conditions in developing countries. The poor living conditions combined with poor veterinary services and lack of awareness of the zoonotic diseases exacerbates the risks of disease transmission from animals to humans. Dogs serve different purposes, offering several benefits to humans, including companionship, life-saving actions, security as well as hunting and farming. However, dogs have also served as a source of infection for other animals and humans, and remain an important source of infectious diseases. The close relationship between dogs and humans and the fact that dogs live in close proximity to humans makes it possible for parasite/disease transmission to occur either directly or indirectly. This review is aimed at giving an update and creating awareness on the occurrence of some zoonotic infections (Cryptosporidium, Giardia, Trypanosoma spp and helminths) from dogs in Zambia, and highlights the need for epidemiological studies to understand the exact role dogs play in these infections. Information generated from these studies will be used by policy makers and relevant authorities to educate communities and create awareness on these zoonotic diseases which will in turn assist in preventing such infections.