Gastrointestinal Parasitic Infections in Non-Human Primates at Gabon’s Primatology Center: Implications for Zoonotic Diseases

Abstract

Parasites and infectious diseases pose significant threats to primate populations, especially in captive non-human primates (NHPs). This study aimed to assess the diversity and prevalence of intestinal parasites in NHPs at the CIRMF Primatology Center. A total of 97 fecal samples were analyzed using parasitological techniques, including sodium chloride flotation and modified Baermann sedimentation methods. An overall parasite prevalence of 93.81% (91/97) was observed. Sixteen groups of parasites with zoonotic potential were identified, comprising ten genera of nematodes (Trichuris, Enterobius, Hookworm, Trichostrongylus, Mammomonogamus, Spirure, Oesophagostomum, Schistosoma, Ascaris, and Strongyloides), three genera of protists (Eimeria, Balantioides coli/Buxtonella, and Entamoeba), one genus of cestodes (Hymenolepis), and two genera of trematodes (Dicrocoelium and Paramphistomum). High prevalences were noted for Oesophagostomum spp. (83.5%), Strongyloides spp. (52.58%), and Trichostrongylus spp. (50.52%). These findings underscore the potential role of the CIRMF Primatology Center in maintaining and facilitating the transmission of intestinal parasites with high zoonotic potential. The co-existence of human and NHP parasites in shared environments, such as zoos and research facilities, emphasizes the need for a holistic, One Health approach that addresses the interconnected health of humans, animals, and the environment. This study highlights the urgent need for collaborative strategies to mitigate the risks of zoonotic parasite transmission between NHPs and humans in captive settings.