Emergence of Thelazia callipaeda Infection in Dogs and Cats from East‐Central Portugal

摘要: Summary The eyeworm Thelazia callipaeda (Spirurida, Thelaziidae) infects domestic animals, wildlife and human beings, is considered an emerging pathogen in Europe. This study aimed at investigating the prevalence risk factors of T. callipaeda infection dogs cats from east-central Portugal, a region where parasite was previously detected two red foxes (Vulpes vulpes). found 22 (3.8%) 586 four (23.5%) 17 cats. A total 178 adult worms (71.9% females 28.1% males) were collected conjunctiva infected dogs. The number per dog ranged 1 to 35 (average ± standard deviation: 8.08 ± 9.49), with (18.2%) harbouring only single parasite. Worms gathered throughout all months year. (64.7% 35.3% obtained cat 14 (4.3 ± 6.5), three (75.0%) having Eyeworm statistically more prevalent pastoral farm dogs, those contact other animals ocular manifestations. T. endemic part reportedly infecting (dogs cats) wild carnivores (red foxes) evidencing southerly dissemination. Future investigations should be focused on determining local distribution density insect vector (Phortica variegata) this geographical area. emergent zoonosis included by veterinarians, physicians ophthalmologists differential diagnosis manifestations their patients, particularly areas endemic.