Seroprevalence of canine leishmaniasis, knowledge and behaviors at risk of zoonotic transmission of owners in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso

Leishmaniasis is a major zoonotic parasitic infection affecting humans and domestic mammals, especially dogs. This study aimed to determine the seroprevalence of Leishmania infantum in dogs presented at the veterinary clinic of the National School of Livestock and Animal Health between September 1, 2022 and May 31, 2023. Additionally, the study assessed the knowledge and behaviors associated with zoonotic transmission risk among dog owners in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso. Blood samples were collected from dogs, and a structured epidemiological questionnaire was administered to owners to gather information on their interactions with dogs and knowledge of canine leishmaniasis. The ID Screen Indirect Leishmaniasis kit was used to test for anti-L. infantum antibodies in sera using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). A total of 584 samples were collected, with 365 testing positive, yielding a seroprevalence of 62.5% (95% CI: 61.6-63.4). Among the 584 owners surveyed, 494 (84.6%) were unfamiliar with canine leishmaniasis. The risk of zoonotic transmission was higher among owners unaware of the disease's zoonotic potential. Common risk behaviors observed in dog owners included constant and close contact, regular hugging, and allowing dogs to lick them. Given the reality of infection, serological, molecular, and genomic monitoring of the pathogen in both humans and animals using a One Health approach is necessary.