Detection of Toxocara species larvae in four Iranian free-range broiler farms

Abstract Background The epidemiology of Toxocara canis and Toxocara cati in food animals, associated products, and their zoonotic potential are poorly understood. A cross sectional study was designed to ascertain the prevalence of Toxocara spp. larvae from free-range broiler chickens of traditional farms using conventional techniques and molecular method. Eight-hundred tissue samples including liver, gizzard, lungs and heart were collected from 200 chickens belongs to various zones of Zanjan Province, Iran and were processed by conventional and molecular techniques. Results Out of 800 chicken tissues, 49 samples (6.1%) were found positive for the nematode larvae. Polymerase chain reaction for the species-specific identification of the Toxocara larvae was performed. The findings showed 10.5% of chickens were infected with Toxocara spp. so that 12 samples were positive for Toxocara canis and 9 samples for Toxocara cati. Conclusion Considering the significant contamination of free-range broiler chickens with Toxocara larvae, consumption of the chicken's meat and viscera, especially liver and gizzards, can play an important role in transmission of the infection to humans. Prevention and control measures focused on regular deworming of dogs and cats, enhancing public awareness of Toxocara infection are recommended.