Gastrointestinal Parasitic infection among humans, Macaques dogs and pigeons at Swayambhunath Mahachaitya, Kathmandu Nepal

Abstract

Gastrointestinal (GI) parasites are the most common infectious agents in both humans and non-human animals. The interaction among humans and a wide variety of animals including wildlife, companion animals and avian species increases the likelihood of transmitting GI parasitic infections across different groups. They pose a significant but often neglected threat to public health, especially in developing countries. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and diversity of GI parasites in humans, macaques, dogs and pigeons and to determine the risk of cross-species transmission. A cross-sectional study was performed from February 2023 to February 2024 at Swayambhunath Mahachaitya. A total of 200 fresh fecal samples were collected non-invasively comprising 50 from humans, 50 from macaques, 50 from dogs and 50 from pigeons. The samples were carefully labeled, preserved in 2.5% potassium dichromate and then transported to the laboratory at the CDZ. The samples were analyzed via iodine wet mount, floatation and sedimentation under the microscope at total magnifications of 100× and 400×. Data interpretation was carried out using venn diagram, tables and bar diagrams while statistical analysis was performed using R studio (version 4.3.2). The current study revealed an overall prevalence rate of 67% with specific rates of 16% in humans, 96% in macaques, 72% in dogs and 84% in pigeons respectively. Major GI parasites detected included Ascaris lumbricoides and Entamoeba spp. in humans. In macaques, Balantidium coli, Hookworm and Strongyle spp. were detected, while in dogs Strongyloides spp., Hookworm and Strongyle spp. were commonly found. Pigeons exhibited a higher prevalence of Eimeria spp., Ascaridia spp. and Heterophyes spp. Given the diverse range of parasites found across the study populations, this area presents a significant risk of cross-species transmission. Humans are susceptible to contracting parasitic infections from these animal populations, emphasizing the importance of implementing proper hygiene practices and parasite control measures. Further molecular studies will help characterization of parasite species and genotypes providing deeper insights into the potential for zoonotic cross transmission of parasites.