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<p><i>Sarcocystis</i> species are intracellular apicomplexan protozoal parasites that infect both domestic and wild animals, leading to significant economic losses in the meat production industry and posing public health risks. Their life cycle involves two obligatory hosts: a definitive host and an intermediate host. In Iraq, several <i>Sarcocystis</i> species have been identified using both conventional and modern diagnostic techniques, with prevalence rates of 4.8–8.5% in definitive hosts (dogs). In intermediate hosts, prevalence varies considerably across species and tissues, ranging from 0% to 100% depending on the host species, tissue type, and diagnostic method employed, with higher rates typically observed in ruminants (sheep, goats, and cattle) using microscopic and molecular techniques. Diagnosis is primarily conducted through macroscopic and microscopic methods, with gross inspection of carcasses being the main technique for macroscopic diagnosis. Clinical signs in sheep and goats may include nervous symptoms, anorexia, fever, and depression, which can lead to death. Major risk factors for infection include the consumption of undercooked or raw meat and the presence of definitive hosts (dogs and cats) in pastures, particularly when fed raw animal products. Additional risk factors include poor environmental sanitation, such as unsanitary slaughterhouses and the prevalence of stray dogs and cats. Hygienic measures for inspecting all natural and imported meat products are essential before consumption. Currently, no vaccine against <i>Sarcocystis</i> species infections has been developed. Consequently, sarcocystosis results in substantial economic losses due to abortion, diminished meat quality, and carcass damage. Addressing these challenges through improved management and preventive strategies is crucial for reducing the impact of this disease.</p>

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Prevalence, diagnostic approaches, and public health implications of Sarcocystis infections in humans and domestic and wild animals in Iraq: a review

  • 期刊论文

  • 发表日期：

    2026年3月3日

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  • Firas Alali,
  • Marwa Jawad,
  • Jasem Hanoon Hashim Al-Awadi,
  • Hanène Belkahia,
  • Mourad Ben Said

摘要

Sarcocystis species are intracellular apicomplexan protozoal parasites that infect both domestic and wild animals, leading to significant economic losses in the meat production industry and posing public health risks. Their life cycle involves two obligatory hosts: a definitive host and an intermediate host. In Iraq, several Sarcocystis species have been identified using both conventional and modern diagnostic techniques, with prevalence rates of 4.8–8.5% in definitive hosts (dogs). In intermediate hosts, prevalence varies considerably across species and tissues, ranging from 0% to 100% depending on the host species, tissue type, and diagnostic method employed, with higher rates typically observed in ruminants (sheep, goats, and cattle) using microscopic and molecular techniques. Diagnosis is primarily conducted through macroscopic and microscopic methods, with gross inspection of carcasses being the main technique for macroscopic diagnosis. Clinical signs in sheep and goats may include nervous symptoms, anorexia, fever, and depression, which can lead to death. Major risk factors for infection include the consumption of undercooked or raw meat and the presence of definitive hosts (dogs and cats) in pastures, particularly when fed raw animal products. Additional risk factors include poor environmental sanitation, such as unsanitary slaughterhouses and the prevalence of stray dogs and cats. Hygienic measures for inspecting all natural and imported meat products are essential before consumption. Currently, no vaccine against Sarcocystis species infections has been developed. Consequently, sarcocystosis results in substantial economic losses due to abortion, diminished meat quality, and carcass damage. Addressing these challenges through improved management and preventive strategies is crucial for reducing the impact of this disease.