Abstract:
Hookworm infection (Necator americanus and Ancylostoma spp) causes significant
morbidity in resource-limited countries. Dog and pig ownership is associated with
human infection, although the mechanism through which animals increase risk remains
unknown. We first confirmed this association in Kintampo North, Ghana, using
a retrospective analysis and serology, followed by a prospective molecular study of
animal faeces. As a proxy of exposure to dog faeces, we analysed immunoreactivity
of human serum to the zoonotic nematode Toxocara canis. Anti-Toxocara antibodies
were present in 62% of samples (n = 89), and reactivity was associated with dog
ownership. A subsequent prospective study revealed that 43% of dog and 56% of pig
faecal samples contained hookworm eggs by microscopy. PCR analysis confirmed the
presence of N. americanus DNA in 47% of samples from dogs and 56% pig samples.
Nematode larvae were successfully cultured from samples collected from 36 dogs
and seven pigs. These results demonstrate that dogs and pigs have a likely role in the
transmission of N. americanus in endemic communities.