Jet set pets: examining the zoonosis risk in animal import and travel across the European Union

Fooks, Anthony R; Johnson, Nicholas

Giardiasis is caused by genotypes of the protozoa Giardia duodenalis, and is the most common human parasitic infection, with an under-reported global number of symptomatic giardiasis cases. 59 The parasite infects a broad range of mammalian hosts, including dogs and cats. Giardia is transmitted directly via ingestion of cysts through the fecal/oral route or by ingestion of cysts in contaminated food or water. 59 The prevalence of human giardiasis varies across the world, reflecting notable differences in economic and social stratification, especially in resource-limited regions. The incidence of human giardiasis reported to the EuroTravNet database by 16 centers in Western Europe in 2011 was 3.7% of 5,965 ill travelers. Interventions that include pretravel advice on behavior in endemic areas would reduce this burden of disease. 60 Infection of pets can be reduced by removal of fecal material and thorough disinfection of housing and bedding after travel to any Giardia-endemic region.