Canine hookworm infections in Vietnam: prevalence, risk factors, and detection of zoonotic Ancylostoma ceylanicum

Introduction Canine hookworms are widely distributed globally and represent a public health concern because of their zoonotic potential. Hookworm infection is endemic in Vietnam; however, information on canine hookworm infections remains limited. This study investigated the prevalence, associated factors, species identification of canine hookworms, and genetic diversity of Ancylostoma ceylanicum in dogs from a rural area of Vietnam. Methods A total of 371 fecal samples were collected from dogs and examined using fecal flotation with Sheather’s solution. Hookworm positive samples were further subjected to polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for species identification. Results Hookworm infection was detected in 66.6% of dogs (95% CI: 61.5-71.3). Dogs without a history of deworming (adjusted OR [aOR] = 1.77, 95% CI: 1.08-2.89) and lack of proper fecal management (aOR = 1.79, 95% CI: 1.01-3.17) had significantly higher odds of hookworm infection. Molecular analysis identified two hookworm species, A. ceylanicum and Ancylostoma caninum , with A. ceylanicum being predominant. Phylogenetic analysis based on cox1 sequences showed that all A. ceylanicum sequences belonged to the zoonotic haplotype and were closely related to isolates from humans, dogs, and cats across Asia. Discussion These findings contribute to the growing evidence of zoonotic A. ceylanicum circulation in dogs across Asia and support the need for integrated One Health surveillance and control measures in endemic regions.