Ascaris suum – A zoonosis in Bali, Indonesia

Abstract

Background: Ascariasis is a common disease in humans and pigs. In previous reports, it has been known that ascariasis in humans is not only caused by Ascaris lumbricoides but also by Ascaris suum which is known to originate from pigs. Aims and Objectives: This research aims to identify the species of Ascaris that infect traditional pig farmers in Bali, Indonesia. Materials and Methods: To achieve this, an observational study was conducted, in which 239 feces samples were collected from traditional pig farmers. The collected samples were then divided into two parts, with one part stored in a pot containing 10% formalin for microscopic testing, and the other part stored in 70% ethanol for molecular testing. In cases where Ascaris infection was observed during the microscopic examination, a further test was conducted using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method for molecular examination. The DNA derived from the PCR was then subjected to DNA sequencing. Results: The result was compared to A. suum gene data previously published in the Gene Bank. The results of the microscopic examination showed that 22 farmers were infected with Ascaris. However, PCR testing and DNA sequencing indicated that three infections were caused by A. suum. Conclusion: Therefore, it can be concluded that A. suum is a zoonosis in Bali. Thus, efforts to control ascariasis must pay attention to the presence of pigs around it. Handling of ascariasis is not only carried out in humans but also in pigs and the environment.