Abstract:
Background: Zoonotic parasitic infections (ZPI) are parasitic diseases that are transmitted from
animals to humans. Canine dirofilariasis caused by Dirofilaria repens and leishmaniasis caused by
Leishmania donovani are vector-borne ZPI with significant human health implications in Sri
Lanka. Pet owners' awareness is crucial in disease prevention.
Objectives: To assess the prevalence of dirofilariasis and leishmaniasis in household pets and to
evaluate pet owners’ knowledge and awareness of ZPI in Matara
Methods: Blood samples (n=49) were randomly collected from dogs presented to selected pet
clinics in Matara. Giemsa-stained thick blood smears were examined for D. repens microfilariae,
and Giemsa-stained thin blood smears for Leishmania amastigotes. The rk39 rapid
immunochromatographic test was used to detect antibodies against the rK39 antigen of L.
donovani. ZPI awareness was assessed using a standardised questionnaire. Data were analysed
using SPSS version 21.0.
Results: Among 49 dogs, one (2.04%) was positive for D. repens microfilariae, and three (6.12%)
tested positive for rk39 antibodies, while none had Leishmania amastigotes. The prevalences of
dirofilariasis and leishmaniasis among domestic dogs were 2.04% and 6.12%, respectively. Of pet
owners, 79.6% were aware that pet diseases could be transmitted to humans, with significantly
higher awareness (92%) in the 31-60 age group (p<0.05). However, 94% of pet owners were
unaware of symptoms and preventive measures of common zoonotic diseases. Only 53.1% had
received information on ZPI from veterinarians or reliable sources.
Conclusions: The low prevalence of canine dirofilariasis in this study sample may be due to the
regular deworming of domestic pets compared to strays. The higher leishmaniasis prevalence
suggests that dogs may act as reservoir hosts, posing a challenge for leishmaniasis transmission
and control in Sri Lanka. Public awareness of ZPI, its transmission and prevention must be
improved to enhance early detection and management, ultimately reducing reservoirs and limiting
human transmission.
