One Health in Rural Southern Chile: Environmental Contamination with Canine Intestinal Parasites and Associated Risk Factors

Abstract

Dogs are important reservoirs of zoonotic parasites, posing a threat to humans through both direct contact and environmental contamination. This study investigated the environmental presence of canine (zoonotic) intestinal parasites in rural areas of the Los Ríos region in southern Chile. In these rural communities, where access to veterinary and medical services, slaughterhouses, butcheries and supermarkets can be limited, the local citizens are key players in safeguarding public health. This study aimed to explore potential risk factors for exposure to zoonotic parasites through the environment, and to identify key risk and protective factors that can be used as tools in future interventions and research. A broad parasitological analysis was conducted by applying the Teuscher method to faecal samples collected from the environment (e.g. streets, parks and fields). Furthermore, at each sampling site, questionnaires were conducted with women to evaluate their knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding zoonotic disease. These data were used to identify associations between parasite prevalences and questionnaire parameters at both the location and the household levels, thus identifying potential risk and protective factors. Finally, further analyses were performed to elucidate possible mechanisms behind these factors. Several demographic characteristics and pet-keeping practices were established as important elements linked to environmental parasite prevalence. The potential of an education-based approach to risk reduction in this area is highlighted by the identified link between knowledge and risk perception, as well as by the high motivation to learn in groups that exhibit more high-risk behaviours. Practices that should be addressed in awareness campaigns are deworming, regular veterinary attention, and responsible animal husbandry. The findings of this study underline the importance of targeting women and other individuals with socioeconomic disadvantages in rural areas of southern Chile in education programmes and further research. By changing their practices and thus reducing environmental parasitic load, the One Health principle can be implemented for the improvement of human, animal and environmental health.