A potential zoonotic and ecological threat: Is the reintroduction of primate pets a secure measure?

Authors

  • Luciana dos Santos Medeiros Universidade Federal do Acre
  • Yuri Karaccas de Carvalho Universidade Federal do Acre
  • Giovana Barbosa Morais Universidade Federal do Acre
  • Vânia Maria França Ribeiro Universidade Federal do Acre
  • David A. Ashford Kansas States University College of Veterinary Medicine
  • Soraia Figueiredo de Souza

Keywords:

endoparasites, ectoparasites, epidemiology, captive primates, Amazon

Abstract

Primates may be infected by pathogens of human origin, and this may be a concern for releasing such pets back into the wild where they will join troops of wild primates. To determine this risk and the range and burden of endo and ectoparasitic infections among primate pets in Acre, Brazil, we collected appropriate biological samples from all primates conducted to the Screening Center of Wild Animals (CETAS) in the state of Acre, Brazil, during 2011 and 2012.  Among all 14 animals which were confiscated for release into the wild, we found 2 (14.3%) to be infected with Strongyloides sp. and fleas (Ctenocephalides felis) in two (other) of the primates evaluated. Strongyloides sp. are zoonotic parasites. We suggest that the finding of these zoonotic endoparasites indicates a need for routine fecal examination and; or worming of pet primates for the safety for animal handlers and people involved in the reintroduction of primates.

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Published

2018-11-16

Issue

Vol. 2 No. 4 (2016)

Section

Artigo Original

License 

This work is licensed under a free sharing policy. For more information access: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/2.5/br/