Emergence of Thelaziosis Caused by Thelazia callipaeda in Dogs and Cats, United States

Emerg Infect Dis. 2024 Mar;30(3):591-594. doi: 10.3201/eid3003.230700.

Abstract

We report 2 autochthonous feline thelaziosis cases caused by the eyeworm Thelazia callipaeda and discuss the spread among dogs in the northeastern United States. Phylogenetic analysis suggests the parasite was introduced from Europe. Adopting a One Health approach is needed to limit further spread of T. callipaeda eyeworms in North America.

Keywords: One Health; Thelazia callipaeda; United States; cats; dogs; eyeworm; parasites; thelaziosis; zoonoses.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cat Diseases* / epidemiology
  • Cats
  • Dog Diseases* / epidemiology
  • Dogs
  • Loa
  • New England
  • Phylogeny
  • Thelazioidea* / genetics