Frequency of zoonotic parasite eggs in fecal samples from dogs in Umuarama-PR

ABSTRACT Dog feces in public places may contain parasites with zoonotic potential, thereby contaminating the soil and infecting humans and animals. Parasitic diseases are prevalent in immunocompromised individuals, such as children, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses. Thus, this issue is of great importance to One Health, as due to its rapid spread and global presence, it is necessary to evaluate these parasitic zoonoses to minimize the disease. The objective of this study was to detect eggs and cysts of zoonotic parasites by collecting dog fecal samples in the city of Umuarama, PR, Brazil, around schools, hospitals, and nursing homes. The samples were examined using simple flotation and centrifugal-flotation techniques, described by Willis and Faust, which allow the detection of parasite eggs and cysts in fecal samples. Simple flotation uses a dense solution to make parasite eggs and cysts float to the surface, where they can be detected. Centrifugal flotation combines simple flotation with centrifugation to increase detection sensitivity. The data obtained from the research revealed a total of 250 samples, of which 76 were positive for the presence of parasite eggs and cysts (30.4%; 76/250).