Giardia infection in humans and pets in Serbia

Abstract

To determine the epidemiological status of Giardia infection in Serbia, Giardia infection rates were assessed in humans throughout central Serbia, including Belgrade, as well as in dogs and cats from the Belgrade area. Faecal samples from 5440 children and 248 animals (167 dogs and 81 cats) were examined, and when Giardia cysts were found in the faeces of pet dogs, their owners and family members were examined too. The overall prevalence of Giardia was 6.8% in children throughout Serbia, while in Belgrade it increased from 5.1% to 8.0% over three years. Infection rates in dogs and cats were 14.4 and 22.2%, respectively. The increasing infection rate in humans, high levels of infection in pets, and one instance of Giardia in both household members and their pet dog, confirm that potential animal reservoirs exist in urban Serbia.