Data di Pubblicazione:
2005
Citazione:
Is heartworm disease really spreading in Europe? / C. Genchi, L. Rinaldi,C. Cascone, M. Mortarino, G. Cringoli. - In: VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY. - ISSN 0304-4017. - 133:2-3(2005), pp. 137-148. [10.1016/j.vetpar.2005.04.009]
Abstract:
Based on recently published surveys and newly acquired data, a study was
conducted to verify the distribution of filarial worm (Filarioidea) infections in
Europe, with particular emphasis on canine heartworm infection (Dirofilaria
immitis). A Geographic Information System based on thermal regimen was
constructed as a means to identify areas potentially suitable for heartworm
transmission, taking into account that the development of D. immitis larvae in
the mosquito does not occur below the threshold temperature of approximately 14
degrees C. Furthermore, a bionomic model of D. immitis in its mosquito vectors,
which calculates the moving cumulative heartworm development unit parameter, was
applied using the available temperature data to assess the theoretic transmission
timing of heartworm in Europe. The results show that the earliest infection risk
occurs in Spain on March 21 and the latest risk occurs in Spain on September 11.
The longest risk period occurs in Spain (Murcia station: March 21-November 11),
and the shortest risk period occurs in northeastern Europe. The study also
provides the first risk assessment maps for Europe and suggests that if the
actual climatic trend continues, filarial infection should spread into previously
infection-free areas.
Tipologia IRIS:
01 - Articolo su periodico
Keywords:
Dirofilaria immitis; Europe; Geographic Information System (GIS); Heartworm disease; Risk of infection; Spreading
Elenco autori:
C. Genchi, L. Rinaldi,C. Cascone, M. Mortarino, G. Cringoli
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