Feline and canine leishmaniosis and other vector-borne diseases in the Aeolian Islands: Pathogen and vector circulation in a confined environment

Aeolian Islands exhibit high endemicity for vector-borne diseases (VBDs), with Leishmania infantum being the most prevalent pathogen affecting both cats and dogs. The study, conducted on 330 cats and 263 dogs, revealed a seroprevalence of 25.8% for feline leishmaniosis (FeL) and 41.8% for canine leishmaniosis, significantly higher than previously reported in other endemic regions. Additionally, cats showed notable infestation rates with ticks (Ixodes ventalloi and Rhipicephalus pusillus) and fleas (Ctenocephalides felis), while dogs were primarily affected by Rhipicephalus sanguineus s.l. The research highlights the critical role of cats as hosts for multiple VBDs, challenging traditional perceptions that focus predominantly on dogs. This comprehensive investigation underscores the importance of recognizing feline VBDs in disease management strategies, with potential implications for both animal and human health.

Otranto, D., Napoli, E., Latrofa, M. S., Annoscia, G., Tarallo, V. D., Greco, G., Lorusso, E., Gulotta, L., Falsone, L., Basano, F. S., Pennisi, M. G., Deuster, K., Capelli, G., Dantas-Torres, F., & Brianti, E. (2017). Feline and canine leishmaniosis and other vector-borne diseases in the Aeolian Islands: Pathogen and vector circulation in a confined environment. Veterinary Parasitology, 236, 144–151. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.vetpar.2017.01.019