Eco-epidemiology and zoonotic implication of intestinal nematode parasites in humans and dogs in West Shoa Zone, Ethiopia

Nematode parasites can lead to severe health complications and have zoonotic potential, especially in areas with close human-animal interactions and poor sanitation. This study investigates the prevalence of nematode parasites, identifies potential risk factors, and examines their zoonotic relationships between humans and domestic dogs. A cross-sectional study was conducted from June 2023 to June 2024. A total of 310 dog fecal samples and 384 human stool samples were selected using a simple random sampling approach. The samples were examined using flotation and sedimentation techniques. Additionally, a questionnaire survey was used to assess dog owners' awareness of the zoonotic potential of canine intestinal parasites. Out of 310 dogs examined, 171 (55.2%) were positive for zoonotic nematodes. The most commonly detected species were Ancylostoma caninum (31.3%), Toxocara canis (21.9%), Strongyloides stercoralis (11.0%), and Toxascaris leonina (1.3%). Among the 384 children examined, only 3 (0.8%) were infected with Strongyloides stercoralis. No significant difference was found in overall parasite prevalence between local and exotic dog breeds (p > 0.05), but Ancylostoma caninum prevalence showed significant variation with age and sex (p < 0.05). The detection of Strongyloides stercoralis in children did not correspond with the infection patterns in household dogs, indicating other environmental or behavioral factors may contribute. From the survey, only 26% of respondents were aware of the parasitic zoonotic risk associated with dogs, while 77.9% were aware of rabies. The study shows a high burden of zoonotic nematode infections in dogs and a substantial lack of awareness among dog owners. It underscore the importance of One Health measures; education, hygiene, and regular deworming to curb zoonotic transmission and safeguard public health.