Disease: Giardiasis

Molecular evidence of Enterocytozoon bieneusi in arid urban landscapes of shiraz cockroaches (Blattodea), Southwest Iran: Implications for urban public health surveillance

Researchers in Shiraz, Iran found that cockroaches can carry Enterocytozoon bieneusi, a dangerous fungal parasite that causes severe diarrhea in people with weak immune systems. The study collected and tested 378 cockroaches from hospitals and public areas, discovering three positive cases. While the arid climate of Shiraz appears to limit how well these pathogens survive compared to tropical regions, the presence of parasites in hospital cockroaches poses real health risks, especially for vulnerable patients. Better pest control and sanitation in hospitals are essential to prevent spread.

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Not everything that wiggles is a worm: Pseudoparasites in parasitology

When examining patient samples under a microscope, parasitologists must be careful to distinguish real parasites from artifacts that only look like parasites. Items such as pollen, plant fibers, yeast, and food remnants can closely resemble parasitic organisms and lead to incorrect diagnoses and unnecessary treatment. By using proper training, multiple diagnostic techniques, and careful morphological evaluation, healthcare professionals can avoid these diagnostic errors and ensure accurate patient care.

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Potential relationship between gut microbiota and animal diarrhea: a systematic review

This review explains how the trillions of microorganisms living in animal intestines are crucial for health and digestion. When these microbial communities become imbalanced, animals develop diarrhea, which is a major problem in farming causing economic losses and animal suffering. The review shows that adding beneficial bacteria (probiotics) and their food sources (prebiotics) to animal diets can restore balance and prevent diarrhea, offering practical solutions to reduce the need for antibiotics.

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Gastrointestinal Parasites, Ectoparasites, and Fungi in Rabbits Attending Clinical Consultations and from Private Owners and Breeders in Portugal

This study examined parasites, mites, and fungi found in Portuguese rabbits by testing samples from 72 animals at veterinary clinics and private homes. More than half of the rabbits carried intestinal parasites, most commonly coccidia and Cryptosporidium, though few showed obvious illness. Regular cleaning of rabbit housing and proper deworming with fenbendazole significantly reduced parasite infection rates, highlighting the importance of good hygiene practices.

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