Current Status of Ancylostoma Species in Domestic and Wild Animals and Their Zoonotic Implication: Review

Abstract

Hookworm species are mainly an endo-parasite of cats and dogs and others animals including man. Next to roundworm (Ascaris suum) and whipworm (Trichuris trichuria) infections, hookworm infections ranked third in terms of disease load in humans. Among hookworms, Ancylostoma species are highly prevalent in various species of domestic and wild animals, including humans, and mostly found in Asia and tropical countries. People who live in poor resource countries are more vulnerable than in developed countries. Hookworms in children cause mental impairment that leads to cognitive impairment. Similarly, a disability-adjusted life year (DALY) occurs in hookworms, particularly Ancylostoma infects children due to physical impairment. In animals, hookworm may cause diarrhea, stunted growth, and anemia and even lead to death in young animals. Furthermore, Ancylostoma causes cutaneous larva migrans, eosinophilic enteritis, and anemia and finally may cause death in humans. As a result of urbanization, climate change, and land degradation, there are various Ancylostoma species which are newly emerging in animals. Currently, the Ancylostoma is a great concern both in humans and animals, particularly in resource poor countries. The Ancylostoma infection may require governmental and public attention. Therefore, a control and prevention strategy strongly requires integration between medical and veterinary communities to improve environmental and personal hygiene.