Molecular survey of taeniid cestodes with special emphasis onspecies in free-roaming dogs and wild carnivores in Armenia.

Abstract

Echinococcosis, caused by cestodes of the genus, poses significant public health and veterinary concerns globally. In Armenia, cystic echinococcosis (CE) is well-documented in livestock and humans, while alveolar echinococcosis (AE) has long been considered non-endemic. However, a recent retrospective study identified human AE cases, suggesting an underestimation of the parasite's presence. To address knowledge gaps, a pilot survey was conducted to identifyspecies and other taeniids in free-roaming dogs and wild carnivores in Armenia. Fecal samples (= 112) were opportunistically collected from eight wild carnivore species and stray dogs across six Armenian provinces between 2017 and 2018. Samples were analysed for taeniid eggs using flotation and molecular techniques.was identified in a free-roaming dog, marking the first confirmed detection of the parasite in a definitive host in Armenia. Additionally,G6/7 andwere detected in a wolf, whileG6/7,, andwere found in a lynx. These findings indicate the involvement of both domestic and wild carnivores in the transmission cycles ofspecies and suggest the presents of a potential sylvatic cycle involvingG6/7 and. The presence ofin a dog underscores the risk of human infection, necessitating further epidemiological studies. This study provides initial insights into the epidemiology ofin Armenia and highlights the need for continued surveillance to assess public health risks.