Российский паразитологический журнал (Oct 2019)
Dirofilariasis in tracking dogs from Astrakhan region
Abstract
Objective of research: The purpose of this study is the investigation of Dirofilaria infection in tracking dogs from kennels of the Administration of the Federal Penitentiary Service of the Russian Federation for Astrakhan region, and preventive measures for dirofilariasis. Material and methods: Research was conducted in 2004-2009 at the Parasitology Lab of the Center for Hygiene and Epidemiology for the Astrakhan region and at the Department of Infectious Diseases Epidemiology of the Astrakhan State Medical University. Totally, 2907 dogs of various breeds, both genders, aged from 1 to 13 years were investigated. From 2004 to 2009 the examination of dogs was conducted twice a year during the periods of mosquito flight activity. Blood tests were performed by a modified method using 1% of acetic acid solution. Results and discussion: Dirofilariasis was mostly observed in dogs 1 to 5 years of age (86,1 %). Dirofilaria immitis was detected in 17,4 % of 1 year-old dogs; in 22,6% of 2 year-old dogs; 18,3,% of 3 year-old dogs; 10 %-of 4yo dogs and 14,8 % of 5yo dogs. The extensity of infection with Dirofilaria immitis in dogs 6 and 7 years of age was 5,2 and 3,5 %, respectively. It was found that 0,9 % of dogs 8, 10 and 13 of age were infected. Dirofilariasis was not registered in senior dogs. 47 (3,6 %) of 1289 female dogs and 68 (4,2 %) of 1617 male dogs were infected. German shepherds were most infected with Dirofilaria immitis (39,1 %). In urban areas, the infection extensity (92,2 %) is higher than in the suburbs (7,8 %). The highest level of Dirofilaria immitis infection in tracking dogs (24,1 %) was determined in 2004. After using the preparation Dironet in 2008, the infestation level decreased several times and was 3,2 %. Because of the fact that dogs are brought to the kennels from the regions unfavorable on dirofilariasis it is necessary to investigate dog’s blood twice a year to detect microfilariae and to perform timely prophylactic treatments with Dironet.
