Hookworm prevalence has increased from 4 percent in 2018 to almost 50 percent three years later, according to a study published in Clinician’s Brief in August 2020 <Link>. Kim Campbell Thornton shares a troubling situational perspective on prevalence across the U.S. and the challenges of growing drug resistance for all three major classes of dewormers.
We recommend ALL animal health pros monitor this situation. Here are some statements from Thornton’s article:
- Almost 70 percent of dogs visit dog parks
- DVMs and pet owners can no longer assume deworming products are successfully ridding dogs of hookworms
- Drug resistance is likely if a dog presents with hookworm even though the owner is compliant with monthly heartworm combination treatments
- Fecal egg count tests are necessary to count eggs and measure response to treatment
- Before using emodepside, confirm that using a triple combination of all three dewormer groups is ineffective
- Fecal hygiene is an important consideration including removal and proper disposal
Source: Veterinary Practice News, December 2022. Cover story, pages 38-39. Link.
Vigilance is needed, control is essential . . . Hookworms are not only deadly to dogs, they have zoonotic potential.”
INSIGHTS: The epidemiological evidence shared here is an important part of the situation as it lends itself to One Health discussions and the intersections of different animal species and humans.