Roberto Darwin Coello Peralta

Hookworms are zoonotic helminths that cause intestinal diseases in pets and humans, as well as cutaneous larva migrans in the latter; therefore, they are of importance to animal and public health. Stray and domestic dogs play a significant role in the transmission of hookworm disease. This study examines the prevalence of Ancylostoma spp. infections in dogs in Ecuador through a systematic review and meta-analysis. Although based exclusively on canine data, the findings are discussed in the context of available evidence on zoonotic transmission and potential One Health implications. A total of 370 records were screened, of which 9 studies published between 2010 and 2025 met the PRISMA 2020 inclusion criteria. Using a random-effects model with Freeman–Tukey double arcsine transformation, the pooled prevalence was estimated at 32% (95% CI: 17–49%), with substantial heterogeneity across studies (I² = 98.3%). Regional analysis revealed significantly higher prevalence in the Insular region (50%) and the Coastal region (43%), compared to the Sierra (Andean region) (12%). These findings indicate marked spatial variability in canine Ancylostoma infections across Ecuador, likely reflecting underlying environmental, epidemiological, and methodological differences. While this study does not directly assess human or environmental data, the observed patterns are consistent with epidemiological conditions that may favor zoonotic transmission. Overall, this study highlights the need for integrated approaches consistent with a One Health perspective, including improved surveillance, veterinary interventions, and further research incorporating human and environmental components to better understand the epidemiology and potential zoonotic implications of hookworm infections.

Spirometra mansoni causes sparganosis in humans and spirometrosis in domestic dogs. It is transmitted through the consumption of raw or undercooked meat from fish, frogs or paratenic animals, producing subcutaneous and tissue infections in humans, whereas dogs or cats develop gastrointestinal infections. Sparganosis is a zoonotic parasitosis associated with freshwater aquatic environments, prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions of the world. The purpose of this investigation was to identify S. mansoni in domestic dogs from riverine sectors of the Daule River in Ecuador, using coproparasitological methods: direct examination, flotation and sedimentation with centrifugation using saline solution (as screening); and for confirmation, morphometric methods and PCR were used. Through a descriptive, prospective and cross-sectional study, 402 domestic dogs were analyzed, and Spirometra mansoni were determined in 67 (16.66%) of the collected samples. The clinical and epidemiological characteristics of spirometrosis in dogs and the potential risk of sparganosis occurring in humans were determined. However, cases may appear in pets from other locations.

La prevención de parásitos intestinales tienen un efecto positivo en la sanidad animal y salud pública, ya que reduce el riesgo de infección y por lo consiguiente mejora el bienestar de las mascotas y los humanos. Se realizó una investigación bibliográfica para dar a conocer sobre un Programa de gestión en salud animal y pública para el manejo de endoparasitosis intestinales en cualquier zona de estrato social. Se utilizó un estudio de tipo descriptivo y diseño documental. Un total de 22 artículos publicados entre 2017 a 2026 cumplieron con los criterios de inclusión. La investigación reveló una guía que sirva para la prevención de parásitos intestinales de interés zoonótico. Los parásitos intestinales de origen zoonótico se encuentran ampliamente distribuidos en el Ecuador y con diversas prevalencias. La presente investigación es de gran trascendencia para la sociedad y para los sistemas de vigilancia de las parasitosis intestinales, describiendo que el control eficaz de los parásitos en los animales puede mejorar considerablemente su calidad de vida y también es beneficioso para los humanos.

Sparganosis is a zoonotic parasitosis associated with freshwater aquatic environments, prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions of the world. Spirometra (S.) mansoni causes sparganosis in humans and spirometrosis in domestic dogs, which is transmitted through the consumption of raw or undercooked meat from fish, frogs or paratenic animals, producing subcutaneous and tissue infections in humans, whereas dogs or cats develop gastrointestinal infections. The purpose of this investigation was to identify S. mansoni in domestic dogs from riverine sectors of the Daule River in Ecuador, using coproparasitological methods: direct examination, flotation and sedimentation with centrifugation using saline solution (as screening); and for confirmation, morphometric methods and PCR were used. Through a descriptive, prospective and cross-sectional study, 402 domestic dogs were analyzed, and Spirometra mansoni were determined in 17% of the collected samples. Clinical and epidemiological characteristics of spirometrosis in dogs and the risk of sparganosis in humans were determined, revealing a profound lack of information and knowledge about the infection; consequently, there is a possibility that cases will spread in pets and that humans will develop sparganosis.

Three candidate herbal infusion formulations based on blends of Lavandula angustifolia and Amaranthus hybridus (L/S ratios 40/60, 50/50 and 60/40) were developed within a Quality-by-Design (QbD) framework to support physicochemical stability, microbiological conformity and reproducible preparation for an infusion intended to explore possible anxiolytic effects. Gravimetric control of the dried material (moisture content and acid-insoluble ash) supported adequate post-harvest handling and pre-analytical control. Microbiological quality of the dried product complied with NTE INEN 2392:2007, including the absence of Salmonella spp. and Shigella spp. Infusion pH and turbidity were monitored over 30 days; segmented regression identified an early pH breakpoint followed by stabilisation, supporting operational standardisation. Total phenolics (Folin–Ciocalteu) and agar diffusion screening were included as exploratory functional indicators without therapeutic claims. The chemical safety component (As/Pb) is retained as an exposure-informed assessment plan and will be reported after completion of the ongoing experimental validation.

Background: Candida species are opportunistic fungal pathogens that frequently colonize the gastrointestinal tract of immunocompromised individuals, including people living with HIV (PLHIV). Gastrointestinal Candida colonization has been associated with persistent diarrhea and poor health outcomes. Despite the high burden of HIV/AIDS in Ecuador, there is limited research on Candida prevalence and antifungal resistance patterns in this population. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of Candida species in HIV-positive individuals with diarrhea and assess associations with clinical and immunological parameters. Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted at the José Daniel Rodríguez Infectious Hospital in Guayaquil, Ecuador, between April 2021 and May 2022. The study included 85 HIV-positive adults with diarrhea, categorized into those with and without Candida colonization. Fecal samples were analyzed using culture, microscopy (Gram staining, SEM, immunofluorescence), Sabouraud Glucose Agar and CHROMagar™ Candida for species identification. Antifungal susceptibility testing was performed using the VITEK^® 2 Compact system following EUCAST guidelines. Due to the small sample size, only descriptive statistical analyses were performed. Results: The Candida species were detected in 64 of 85 patients (75.3%), with Candida albicans being the most prevalent species. Candida colonization was associated with severely low CD4 counts (Conclusions: This study highlights a high prevalence of Candida colonization in HIV-positive individuals with diarrhea, particularly those with advanced immunosuppression and poor ART adherence. The high levels of fluconazole resistance raise concerns about the efficacy of current antifungal treatments, suggesting a need for routine antifungal susceptibility testing. Given the study’s descriptive nature and single-site design, further research with larger, multicentric cohorts is needed to improve clinical management and antifungal stewardship.

For eight years prior to Argentina's malaria-free certification in 2019, there were no instances of local transmission. Epidemiological surveillance focused on detecting Plasmodium vivax in areas where the last cases had been reported. During the national malaria surveillance program (2016-2018) in Salvador Mazza (Salta Province, northwestern Argentina), several neighborhoods were randomly selected for the collection of human blood samples to detect any silent circulation of P. vivax. Diagnosis of malaria parasites relied on traditional microscopy and molecular detection using blood collected on filter paper, by amplifying and sequencing a portion of the Plasmodium cytochrome b gene. An autochthonous case of P. vivax was identified in an asymptomatic 64-year-old individual in La Bendición neighborhood, Salvador Mazza. The individual had never traveled to any P. vivax-endemic region. This case is the first detected among 92 samples collected from various localities along Argentina's borders with Bolivia (northwest) and Brazil (northeast). This finding highlights the possibility of silent circulation of P. vivax in areas previously assumed to be malaria-free and raises concerns regarding the timing of the certification, prompting a reevaluation of the current situation. The extent of P. vivax circulation among asymptomatic individuals remains largely unknown. This is the first molecularly confirmed asymptomatic case of P. vivax reported following malaria-free certification in Argentina and the Southern Cone region. Currently, there is no active epidemiological or entomological surveillance in the area where the case was recorded. The permeable nature of the border facilitates disease transmission, and the lack of information about the movement of asymptomatic individuals is particularly concerning. It is imperative that the surveillance system responds effectively to maintain the status as a malaria-free country, prioritizing this within the national health system agenda due to the potential implications of silent malaria circulation and the risk of re-emergence and re-establishment.

Intestinal parasites are a global public health concern, affecting both humans and animals, particularly in neglected and underserved communities. These parasites can lead to severe health complications and have zoonotic potential, especially in areas with close human–animal interactions and poor sanitation. This study investigates the ecoepidemiology and zoonotic relationship of intestinal parasites in humans and their domestic dogs in marginalized urban and rural sectors of the Ecuadorian coast. A total of 500 domestic dogs and 160 human participants from four neglected areas of Guayas province were studied between April and October 2024. Fecal samples were collected and analyzed using coproparasitic techniques (direct, flotation, sedimentation, and modified Baermann), followed by morphometric confirmation. Sociodemographic surveys, environmental assessments, and epidemiological indicators were also collected. Statistical analyses, including chi-square tests and logistic regression models, were used to identify associations between parasite prevalence and socioenvironmental variables. The overall prevalence of intestinal parasites was 31.87% in humans and 78% in domestic dogs. The most common parasites in humans were Entamoeba coli (18.13%), Entamoeba. histolytica (10%), and Hymenolepis nana (3.75%). In dogs, Ancylostoma caninum (53.6%), Taenia spp. (Echinococcus granulosus) (15.2%) and Toxocara canis (12.4%), were the most prevalent. Zoonotic parasitic diseases identified included cutaneous larva migrans, hydatidosis, and strongyloidiasis. Significant associations were found between parasitic infections and factors such as water source, sanitation infrastructure, barefoot walking, and peridomiciliary habitat of dogs. The findings highlight a high burden of intestinal parasitism in both humans and dogs in neglected coastal communities of Ecuador, driven by inadequate sanitation, poor socioeconomic conditions, and environmental risk factors. The study underscores the need for integrated One Health approaches, including education, improved hygiene, and routine deworming, to prevent zoonotic transmission and improve public health outcomes.

In the Americas, the number of confirmed malaria cases decreased by 65.4% between 2000 and 2023, and malaria elimination is now in sight for many countries. Argentina is currently free of autochthonous malaria transmission. Until 2011, cases of malaria were concentrated in Northwestern Argentina, near the border with Bolivia, a country that continues to have malaria transmission. The Orán department (Salta province, Northwestern Argentina) had particularly high transmission near a main road that is a pathway for migration from Bolivia. The purpose of this study was to identify which factors best explain the extent and timing of changes in the proportion of malaria cases in this area that were locally transmitted versus acquired in another country. Combining information from routinely collected case investigations, epidemiological surveillance data, and satellite imagery, we used a logistic model and a multi-level model of change to identify how demographic and place-level variables influence the proportion of malaria cases that were imported over time. The findings showed that the proportion of cases that were imported varied significantly over time, with a clear trend from predominantly autochthonous cases at the beginning of the study in 1977 (94.52%) to a majority of imported cases in 1992 (53.33%), a pattern that continued and intensified, reaching 76% imported cases by the end of the series in 2009. Nationality and place of work were key demographic factors influencing this shift. In particular, there was a change in transmission patterns after a cross-border intervention was launched in 1996. As Argentina has obtained certification of malaria elimination, these results may inform focal strategies for preventing re-introduction.

Early warning systems rely on statistical prediction models, with environmental risks and remote sensing data serving as essential sources of information for their development. The present work is focused on the use of remote sensing for the estimation of transmission risk and the prediction of malaria cases in northwest Argentina. This study was conducted in the city of San Ramón de la Nueva Orán, where cases of the disease have been reported from 1986 to 2005. The relationship between reported malaria cases and climatic/environmental variables—including the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), normalized difference water index (NDWI), and land surface temperature (LST)—obtained from Landsat 5 and 7 satellite images was analyzed using multilevel Poisson regression analyses. An increased abundance of reported malaria cases was observed in summer. An ARIMA (autoregressive integrated moving average) temporal series model incorporating environmental variables was developed to forecast malaria cases in the year 2000. The analysis of the relationship between malaria cases and environmental and climatic factors showed that malaria cases were associated with increases in LST and mean temperature and a decrease in the NDVI. Early warning systems that provide information about spatial and temporal predictions of epidemics could help to control and prevent malaria outbreaks. Based on these findings, this study is expected to support the development of future prevention and control measures by health officials.