Anthropophilic Small Mammals: Potential Source of Zoonotic Enteric Parasites in the Commune of Abobo, District of Abidjan (Côte d’Ivoire)

Abstract

Objectives: This study aims to identify and assess intestinal parasites with zoonotic potential in terrestrial small mammals to better understand the associated risks. Methods: Live captures were performed using Sherman traps placed in human dwellings within the Abobo commune of Abidjan. Captured animals were euthanized and their legs were thoroughly washed with a Sodium Acetate Acetic Acid Formol solution. Subsequently, the digestive tract contents and leg washing fluids were examined using the Ritchie concentration method. Results: Mus musculus (75.3%) and Rattus rattus (13.5%) emerged as the most prevalent of small mammal species. Overall, 33.3% of these animals were infected with intestinal parasites. The predominant helminth species were Hymenolepis diminuta (8.9%) and Ancylostoma sp. (6.9%), while the primary pathogenic protozoa detected was Giardia intestinalis (2.3%). Conclusion: The presence of parasites of public health importance proves that cohabitation of small mammals with humans poses a significant risk to both public and veterinary health. These data therefore provide valuable information to local and provincial administrations, which should consider population control measures for small mammals to mitigate the transmission of zoonotic diseases to humans. They also provide information to medical practitioners for the diagnosis of possible zoonoses, and a reference for further studies in urban environments in Cote d'Ivoire.