Seroprevalence of Trichinella spp. in hunting dogs from southern Italy

Wildlife plays a crucial role in maintaining the sylvatic cycle of Trichinella spp., representing an important source of infection for humans through the consumption of infected meat. Due to their scavenging behaviour and close interaction with wildlife, hunting dogs can be exposed to Trichinella spp. by ingesting muscle tissue containing infective larvae. In this study, we assessed the seroprevalence of Trichinella spp. in hunting dogs from southern Italy. Serum samples (n = 270) were collected from dogs across different areas of the Basilicata region and screened for anti-Trichinella IgG antibodies by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), followed by a confirmatory western blot (WB). Anti-Trichinella IgG antibodies were detected in 34.8 % (n = 94/270; 95 % CI: 0.29-0.41) by ELISA test, of which 59.6 % (n = 56/94; 95 % CI: 0.49-0.69) were confirmed by WB, resulting in an overall seroprevalence of 20.7 % (n = 56/270; 95 % CI: 0.16-0.26). Results show that hunting dogs may act as sentinels for monitoring the circulation of Trichinella spp., thereby assessing the potential risk for humans. Enhanced awareness among hunters and improved carcass handling practices are essential to mitigate the risk of transmission, reinforcing the need for an integrated control strategy approach.