Investigation of Enteric Parasites of Zoo Animals and Zookeepers in Beni-Suef Governorate, Egypt

In this study, the enteric parasites of zoo animals and zookeepers in Beni-Suef governorate, Egypt were investigated. Fecal samples from thirteen animal species were examined by floatation and formol ether sedimentation techniques. Zoo animals were classified into non-human primates, carnivores and herbivorous animals. The examination of non-human primates revealed the presence of Trichuris trichura eggs, Giardia intestinals and Entamoeba histolytica cysts. In carnivores, Toxoascaris leonina eggs and Isospora felis oocysts were the most predominantfindings. In herbivore wild animals, gastrointestinal nematode (GIT) eggs and Eimeria species oocysts were present. Larval identification by fecal culture of (GIT) eggs demonstrated the presence of Haemonchus contortus and Strongyloid papillosus larvae. Examination of zookeepers and one lab worker revealed the presence of Giardia intestinals and Entamoeba histolytica cysts. In conclusion, infection with Giardia intestinals and Entamoeba histolytica in both of human and nonhumanprimates suggests the zoonotic transmission in the zoo.