Sviluppo di strumenti innovativi per la valutazione del rischio parassitologico negli animali domestici con particolare riferimento alle zoonosi

The increasing interaction between humans and companion animals has led to a growing concern regarding zoonotic parasitic diseases, particularly in regions with high pet ownership and tourism, such as Sardinia, Italy. This phd research aims to develop innovative tools for assessing parasitological risks in domestic animals, focusing on zoonotic parasites and their implications for public health. The study presents a ten-year epidemiological analysis (2014–2024) of intestinal parasites in pet dogs and cats across more than 40 municipalities in Sardinia, based on 735 canine and 1,390 feline fecal samples. The research highlights significant shifts in the prevalence of zoonotic protozoa (Giardia spp., Cryptosporidium spp., Leishmania infantum), nematodes (Ancylostoma caninum, Toxocara canis, Toxocara cati), cestodes (Echinococcus granulosus, Taenia multiceps), and myiasis-causing parasites (Oestrus ovis). These findings emphasize the ongoing risks posed by these pathogens, particularly in a region characterized by seasonal population surges due to tourism. To enhance risk assessment and disease management, the study integrates epidemiological data into a digital platform designed for veterinary professionals and pet owners. This platform includes interactive educational materials, continuously updated parasite profiles, and real-time epidemiological data. A novel veterinary telemedicine service has also been developed, allowing remote consultations for zoonotic and non-zoonotic parasitic infections, as well as guidance on anthelmintic treatment protocols tailored to specific cases. The research underscores the importance of a “One Health” approach, bridging veterinary and human medicine to address emerging zoonoses in the context of globalization, climate change, and urbanization. The study provides a foundation for future advancements in parasitological diagnostics, including the integration of artificial intelligence for enhanced disease monitoring and risk prediction. The implementation of these tools is expected to improve parasite surveillance, optimize prevention strategies, and contribute to public health by reducing the burden of zoonotic parasitic infections.

This phd research aims to develop innovative tools for assessing parasitological risks in domestic animals, focusing on zoonotic parasites and their implications for public health. The study presents a ten-year epidemiological analysis (2014–2024) of intestinal parasites in pet dogs and cats across more than 40 municipalities in Sardinia, based on 735 canine and 1,390 feline fecal samples. The research highlights significant shifts in the prevalence of zoonotic protozoa, nematodes, cestodes, and myiasis-causing parasites. These findings emphasize the ongoing risks posed by these pathogens, particularly in a region characterized by seasonal population surges due to tourism. To enhance risk assessment and disease management, the study integrates epidemiological data into a digital platform designed for veterinary professionals and pet owners. This platform includes interactive educational materials, continuously updated parasite profiles, and real-time epidemiological data. A novel veterinary telemedicine service has also been developed, allowing remote consultations for zoonotic and non-zoonotic parasitic infections, as well as guidance on anthelmintic treatment protocols tailored to specific cases. The research underscores the importance of a One Health approach, bridging veterinary and human medicine to address emerging zoonoses in the context of globalization, climate change, and urbanization. The study provides a foundation for future advancements in parasitological diagnostics, including the integration of artificial intelligence for enhanced disease monitoring and risk prediction. The implementation of these tools is expected to improve parasite surveillance, optimize prevention strategies, and contribute to public health by reducing the burden of zoonotic parasitic infections