A review of zoonotic pathogens of donkeys (Equus asinus)

Abstract

: Donkeys belong to the equine family that are generally considered as the beast of burden and have helped mankind from way back in the ancient Greek history. They are considered resilient species especially in semi-arid areas where infrastructure is poor and other animals do not do well. They are used for various functions including farm tillage, transportation of farm products, water, firewood and recreational activities that contribute immensely to agricultural economy and availability of resources to families especially those who are poverty stricken.  However, despite the significant contribution of donkeys in rural agriculture system, they have been subjected to several challenges including poor husbandry practices, overworking/overloading, limited veterinary care and general negative attitudes toward this species. Since these animals are in close contact with humans, any zoonotic disease occurrence could pose a health risk. Therefore, the purpose of this article is to review the documented zoonotic diseases affecting donkeys and describe the possible ways on how such diseases can be transmitted to other animals and humans. From this review, most studies have been carried on parasitic, bacterial and viral diseases affecting donkeys with less emphasis on other zoonoses. Hydatidosis and toxoplasma infections are the two conditions where their zoonotic potentials have been studied more compared to the rest parasitic zoonoses. Whereas for bacterial zoonoses, brucellosis, leptospirosis and salmonellosis have been researched more in equine than other potential bacterial pathogens. However, rabies and Equine encephalomyelitis viral infection have been reported more in donkeys than any other viral zoonoses. Africa, Europe and Asia are the three continents with the highest number of publications on donkey zoonoses. Therefore, proper understanding of equine pathogens with potential to cause infections in humans is necessary so that the communities who keep these animals are educated on the prevention and control measures to reduce possible human infections.