Soil transmitted helminths in animals – how is it possible for human transmission?

Abstract Objective To determine the current prevalence of soil transmitted helminths (STH) infections among cats and dogs in an animal shelter. Methods A total of 442 animal's faecal samples were collected from the selected animal shelter located in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The samples were screened by direct smear and further confirmed by formalin-ether sedimentation methods. Results The overall prevalence of STH in animals was 48.4%. Among these, 51.5% and 45.8% were found in dogs and cats respectively. Among feline, hookworm was found to be the most predominant (41.7%), followed by Toxocara cati (4.6%). Whereas, hookworm was found to be the most predominant in canine (47%), followed by Toxocara canis (15.8%) and Trichuris vulpis (5.9%). Conclusions A high prevalence of STH infections was found among animals living in this local shelter. Hence, appropriate preventive measures should be taken to eradicate these infections.