Seroprevalence of canine heartworm disease (Dirofilaria immitis) on Tenerife Island: an epidemiological update

Parasitol Res. 2006 Dec;100(1):103-5. doi: 10.1007/s00436-006-0257-1. Epub 2006 Jul 4.

Abstract

Blood samples from 823 dogs were tested for circulating Dirofilaria immitis antigen during a 1-year period (May 2002 to May 2003) on Tenerife Island, Canary Islands, Spain. Seroprevalence of heartworm infection was 21%. Heartworm infection was similar in males and females and was more common in dogs aged >6 years. Distribution of infection in varying climatic zones was not statistically different.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Atlantic Islands / epidemiology
  • Climate
  • Dirofilaria / isolation & purification*
  • Dirofilariasis / epidemiology*
  • Dog Diseases / epidemiology
  • Dog Diseases / parasitology*
  • Dogs
  • Incidence
  • Seroepidemiologic Studies*
  • Spain