Co-infection of intestinal helminths in humans and animals in the Philippines

Abstract

Background A large number of studies have assessed risk factors for infection with soil-transmitted helminths (STH), but few have investigated the interactions between the different parasites or compared these between host species across hosts. Here, we assessed the associations between Ascaris, Trichuris, hookworm, strongyle and Toxocara infections in the Philippines in human and animal hosts. Methods Faecal samples were collected from humans and animals (dogs, cats and pigs) in 252 households from four villages in southern Philippines and intestinal helminth infections were assessed by microscopy. Associations between worm species were assessed using multiple logistic regression. Results Ascaris infections showed a similar prevalence in humans (13.9%) and pigs (13.7%). Hookworm was the most prevalent infection in dogs (48%); the most prevalent infection in pigs was strongyles (42%). The prevalences of hookworm and Toxocara in cats were similar (41%). Statistically significant associations were observed between Ascaris and Trichuris and between Ascaris and hookworm infections in humans, and also between Ascaris and Trichuris infections in pigs. Dual and triple infections were observed, which were more common in dogs, cats and pigs than in humans. Conclusions Associations are likely to exist between STH species in humans and animals, possibly due to shared exposures and transmission routes. Individual factors and behaviours will play a key role in the occurrence of co-infections, which will have effects on disease severity. Moreover, the implications of co-infection for the emergence of zoonoses need to be explored further.

Mapping gut parasitism patterns in a cohort of Egyptians

“…The interaction between different parasite populations (within and between hosts) and host populations, rather than associations play a significant role 17 . Though the specifics of these interactions within the host are unknown, some are sought to be synergistic where the presence of one parasite may encourage the occurrence of future parasitic infections, while others are thought to be antagonistic where parasites compete for the same ecological niche within the host 18 .…”

Anthelmintic resistance in soil-transmitted helminths: One-Health considerations

“…Human factors such as age may influence the pathogenesis of disease caused by STH infection (high Ascaris , Trichuris , and Toxocara worm loads lead to more severe illnesses in children) (Else et al 2020 ). Aside from coevolution, greater human occupancy in animal habitats and close contact or affiliation with pets and domestic animals in human dwellings, augmented by individual variables and behaviors, allow for zoonotic pathogen exposure (Kajero et al 2022 ; WHO 2020 ). Pet ownership is increasing in many households, and too close contact or association can be harmful to pet owners (Kamani et al 2021 ), particularly in areas where the owners are unaware of the associated zoonotic disease risks and thus do not take the necessary precautions to avoid any potential health hazards (Moro and Abah 2019 ).…”

Effect in vitro of Areca catechu ethanol extract partition as anthelmintics against roundworm

“…A recent study has reported that there is a balanced association between A. lumbricoides, trichuris trichiura and (ancylostoma duodenale, necator americanus) infections in humans. However, the study did not account for the age group studied [16].…”