Identification of feline zoonotic protozoa and microsporidia in South Korea
Feral cats are considered reservoirs for zoonotic pathogens affecting humans and animal health. Cats can have some gastrointestinal protozoa and microsporidia that represent a zoonotic potential.
A study showed the infection rates and risk factors of intestinal protozoa and microsporidia from shelter cats in South Korea. Fecal samples from 158 cats were collected, and detected genes using the Genomic DNA were extracted from fecal samples using QIAamp Fast DNA Stool Mini Kit. Cryptosporidium felis, Giardia duodenalis, Blastocystis sp., Enterocytozoon bieneusi, and Toxoplasma gondii were found in shelter cats. At least one protozoan or microsporidium tested positive in 16 cats.
This study allowed to expand the understanding of the incidence of zoonotic gastrointestinal protozoa and microsporidia in shelter cats. It was the first study that described the existence of several parasites C. felis, G. duodenalis assemblage F, Blastocystis sp. ST4 subtype, and E. bieneusi genotype Peru11 in cats in South Korea
All the data reported that a better control strategy on feline protozoa and microsporidia infection is needed, and it will improve public health.
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