Dynamics of Tunga penetrans infections and severity of associated morbidity among pigs during the dry season in rural Uganda.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Tungiasis is a neglected tropical disease which is common in impoverished communities. In sub-Saharan Africa, it is caused by female sand fleas, Tunga penetrans, and pigs are amongst the major domestic animal reservoirs. Depending on the environment, tungiasis occurs throughout the year or preferentially in the dry seasons. This study investigated changes in sand flea abundance and associated morbidity in pigs during a dry season.

Methods

Tunga penetrans lesions were counted and staged in 35 pigs amongst 22 households with at least one affected pig. Five weekly examinations were performed per animal during a dry season. Enrolment of pigs into the study lasted 17 days and examination was performed for 43 days. The severity score for acute pig tungiasis (SSAPT) was

SUBMITTER: Mutebi F 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11843770 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature