Canine and feline vector-borne diseases in Italy:
current situation and,perspectives.

Parasit Vectors. 2010 Jan 11;3:2.

Canine and feline vector-borne diseases in Italy: current
situation and perspectives.

Otranto D, Dantas-Torres F.

Dipartimento di Sanita Pubblica e Zootecnia, Facolta di Medicina
Veterinaria, Universita degli Studi di Bari, 70010 Valenzano,
Bari, Italy.

In Italy, dogs and cats are at risk of becoming infected by
different vector-borne pathogens, including protozoa, bacteria,
and helminths. Ticks, fleas, phlebotomine sand flies, and
mosquitoes are recognized vectors of pathogens affecting cats and
dogs, some of which (e.g., Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Borrelia
burgdorferi, Dipylidium caninum, Leishmania infantum, Dirofilaria
immitis, and Dirofilaria repens) are of zoonotic concern. Recent
studies have highlighted the potential of fleas as vectors of
pathogens of zoonotic relevance (e.g., Rickettsia felis) in this
country. While some arthropod vectors (e.g., ticks and fleas) are
present in certain Italian regions throughout the year, others
(e.g., phlebotomine sand flies) are most active during the summer
season. Accordingly, control strategies, such as those relying on
the systematic use of acaricides and insecticides, should be
planned on the basis of the ecology of both vectors and pathogens
in different geographical areas in order to improve their
effectiveness in reducing the risk of infection by vector-borne
pathogens. This article reviews the current situation and
perspectives of canine and feline vector-borne diseases in Italy.

http://eutils.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pu
bmed&id=20145730&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks
PMID: 20145730 [PubMed]