• Roundworms are the most common parasite in cats and dogs, even among well cared for pets.
• Roundworm eggs are very hardy and long-lived in the environment. Preventing egg shedding through early and year-round administration of broad-spectrum parasite control is critical to prevent environmental contamination.
• One species of roundworm can produce about 200,000 microscopic eggs per day!
• Roundowrm is a parasite with the potential to infect humans and is most common in children.  Infection occurs from ingestion of larvated eggs in the environment. When ingested by humans, larvae from roundworm eggs then migrate to organs such as the liver or lungs, to the eye or even the brain, and can cause disease.

Download the CAPC Roundworm Overview Detailer to learn more about roundworm infection and how you can protect your pets and family from this parasite.

CAPC also offers a monthly Top 10 Cities Report to alert pet parents, veterinarians, and pet-related service providers about U.S. metropolitan areas experiencing the highest percent increases in positive hookworm tests.  Click here to see if your city made the Top 10.

• Although incidence of hookworm varies based on climate, pets are at risk for hookworm disease in all 50 states. Areas with high concentrations of dogs such as dog parks may increase the risk of pets contracting this disease.
• Hookworms live in contaminated soil and infect dogs and cats through penetration of the skin or ingestion of the larvae or an infected paratenic host.
• One species of hookworm can produce about 20,000 microscopic eggs per day!
• Canine Hookworm is a parasite with the potential to infect humans. Infection in people from dog and cat hookworms is generally displayed as itching at the infection site and sometimes appears as cutaneous larval migrans—a winding, threadlike, raised reddish brown rash with occasional bumps and blisters.

Download the CAPC Hookworm Overview Detailer to learn more about hookworm infection and how you can protect your pets and family from this parasite.

CAPC also offers a monthly Top 10 Cities Report to alert pet parents, veterinarians, and pet-related service providers about U.S. metropolitan areas experiencing the highest percent increases in positive hookworm tests.  Click here to see if your city made the Top 10.

Did You Know...

• Heartworm disease is transmitted by mosquitoes. Heartworms are damaging parasites that can kill or seriously debilitate infected pets.
• Pets are at risk for heartworm disease in all 50 states.
• It only takes a single mosquito bite for pets to become infected with heartworm larvae. When a mosquito bites an infected dog, it can transfer the larval parasite to the next dog or cat it bites.
• It only takes one heartworm-infected dog to substantially increase the number of infected mosquitoes that can transmit heartworm parasites to nearby unprotected dogs and cats.

Download the CAPC Heartworm Overview Detailer to learn more about heartworm disease, how it's spread, and how you can protect your pets against this deadly disease. 

Ehrlichiosis: a disease transmitted to humans and animals by ticks that can cause abnormalities in blood, such anemia.

Feces: bodily waste discharged through the anus. Also called stools, or informally, poop..

Giardia: a parasite in the intestines of humans and animals causing sever diarrhea.

Heartworms: a worm living in the heart and/or lungs of dogs and cats, transmitted by mosquitoes. The adult worm can measure as long as 16 inches in length.

Hookworms: any of numerous small parasitic worms living in the intestines of dogs, drinking the host’s blood resulting in anemia. They have hooked mouthparts which fasten to the intestinal walls of the host.

Host: a living animal or plant from which a parasite obtains nutrition.

Lyme Disease: bacterial disease caused by Borrelia organisms and transmitted by the eastern and western black legged ticks (deer ticks). The disease may infect both humans and animals and if untreated may result in severe symptoms.

Parasite: an organism that lives on or in an organism of another species, known as the host.

Preventative: a drug, vaccine, etc., for preventing disease

Rickettsiosis: infectious disease transmitted by ticks, mites or body lice infected with rickettsial organisms.

Roundworms: among the most common of the parasitic worms found in dogs and cats,  adult roundworms live in the intestines. Animals with major roundworm infections show weight loss, dull hair, and a potbellied appearance.

Tapeworms: any of a number of flat, ribbon-like parasitic worms living in the intestines of humans and animals.

Toxocara: roundworms

Toxoplasmosis: parasite transmitted to humans by consumption of insufficiently cooked meat, soil or exposure to organisms in cat feces.

Vector-borne disease: diseases transmitted though the bite of another organism, such as fleas, ticks or mosquitoes.

Whipworms: a slender, whip-shaped, parasitic nematode worm that often infests the intestine of animals, resulting in diarrhea.

Zoonosis: any disease shared by animals and humans.

Zoonotic: passed between animals and humans.

Answers to Your Questions About Parasites to Keep You and Your Pets Healthy

Q: I have several dogs and cats I want to give them the best of care but the cost of products to control fleas and ticks as well as internal parasites and heartworms is more than my budget will cover.  Are there products that are OK to use in both dogs and cats?
A: Cats and dogs are very different in their ability to handle chemicals. In fact some chemicals commonly used in dogs are potentially very dangerous in cats. Never use dog product in cats,

Q: Can I buy the larger sizes of products and divide them among my pets?
A: Dividing doses is not recommended.
While this may seem logical in some cases the reality is these products are somewhat dose sensitive based on the weight of the patient.

Some manufacturers have stated that the distribution of chemical through their product may not be uniform and so one pet might receive too much and another not enough.

Q: We took home a new puppy recently and when we took her to the vet a few weeks later we found she had whipworms and hookworms. The puppy had pooped in several areas of the yard and I understand the eggs of these worms are probably in the dirt. Is there any way I can kill these worm eggs?
A: Unfortunately some worm eggs are pretty resistant to environmental changes and can persist for long periods in the soil. There are some precautions that can be taken in small areas to destroy the eggs. Unfortunately they damage or destroy the lawn and landscaping in the immediate area.

In some cases dilute chlorine bleach may be effective but this is most effective in concrete covered areas and much less so in soil. Propane fueled torches will work but have obvious risks of burns and unintended damage.
In small areas, the top few inches of soil can be removed and taken to a landfill.
In extreme cases it may be necessary to cover the area with concrete or blacktop to prevent exposure and re-infection.

To best protect the puppy be sure to administer monthly parasite control products as recommended by your veterinarian.

Q: I have a lot of feral cats in my neighborhood and some use my yard and flower beds as a toilet. Do I need to worry? What can I do to safely clean up these areas without harming my garden?
A: In addition to the risk of roundworms and hookworms infesting your garden cats present the additional potential for transmission of Toxoplasmosis. This protozoan infection is of particular concern to pregnant women.

Since treating feral cats is impractical it is important to prevent them from soiling your garden by using motion sensitive sprinklers or repellants It is also important to remove fecal material daily if possible and dispose of it in a landfill.
The best step you can take to protect yourself is to wear gloves while gardening and to wash your hands well after working in the yard.

Q: My family is extremely “green” and we mulch everything. We have been adding dog and cat droppings to the mulching but I understand this may not be a good idea. What are the dangers?
A: Mulching is a very common way of helping protect our environment but unfortunately the methods and results are somewhat inconsistent. Worm eggs passed in your pets’ stools require high temperatures to kill the eggs and these temperatures may be difficult to achieve in home mulch piles.
The risk is that you could inadvertently be spreading worm eggs around your garden and potentially contaminating vegetables.

While many sewage treatment plants are effective at killing these eggs not all are. The best and safest way to dispose of dog and cat stools is in the landfill with your garbage.

Q: We live in the country in Southern California and have a lot of wildlife in our area. What do we need to do worry about in terms of our pets getting parasites from these animals?
A: Wildlife are indeed a possible health hazard to your  pets and your family. Intestinal parasites can be transmitted to pets by eating the eggs or consuming small rodents.  Racoons carry a very serious parasite called Balysascaris which can infect dogs but of far greater  danger they can infect people with potentially deadly results.

Additionally wildlife are frequent hosts to fleas and ticks which can contaminate the environment and infect your pets.

Q: We have possums and raccoons in our yard. Are they any danger to our pets or our grandchildren?
A: The biggest danger is that the raccoons will deposit their feces in an area where children might inadvertently be exposed.

In some areas of the country raccoons are a primary source of rabies.
Both Possums and Raccoons are intriguing to young children. It is important to not encourage them to make your yard their home and to prevent children from coming in contact with them or their droppings.

Q: We just adopted a 5 month old puppy and we want to be sure he stays in good health. We had him tested for worms and heartworms and both were negative. If we start him on the drugs our vet suggested can we be sure he will not get heartworms or intestinal worms?
A: The most important step you can take to protect your puppy from parasites is to use a monthly product to control internal parasites and an oral or injectable product to prevent heartworms. These products should be used year round.
Heartworms present a bit of a problem in that your puppy may have been exposed to heartworms and they just haven’t matured to a stage they are detectable. The best precaution is to have your puppy retested   6 months after the last test. Regardless…stay on the preventive your veterinarian recommends all year round.

Q: I just found out I am pregnant and my doctor said I must get rid of my indoor cats. I am very attached to my cats but the health of my baby comes first. What should I do?
A: First don’t get rid of your cat! Your doctor is concerned about the spread of Toxoplasmosis from your cat. In expectant mothers this normally minor disease can have devastating results in the developing fetus.
The good news is it is acquired by cats primarily by eating mice and birds. Furthermore it is only transmissible from cats for a very short time in their life.

The risk of toxoplasmosis from cats is an outdated concern but is easily avoided by having someone else in the family empty the litter box daily.
The risk of Toxoplasmis is most significant from eating unwashed vegetables and undercooked meat. Both should be avoided during pregnancy.

Q: I live in a high-rise in downtown Chicago. I have 2 cats that never go outdoors. Do I need to worry about worms?
A: Because your pets are not outdoors the likelihood of exposure is far less than for an outdoor cat. Some common pests such as cockroaches can transmit some parasites and it is not out of the question that mosquitoes can find their way into your building.  While risks are low only you can determine if they are acceptable.

At very least have a stool sample checked once yearly on both cats so if there is infection it can be addressed.

Q: I am very concerned about chemicals around my family. Are there natural organic products that I can use to control fleas and ticks?
A: While there are some natural products that have a slight repellent activity against fleas none have been shown to be very effective over the long haul. Eucalyptus oil, cedar chips and other aromatic oils may act as repellents but to have any effect at all they must be used very frequently and must be very fresh. This makes them a bit unpleasant to be around.

Diatomaceous earth and Borax powder are very good drying agents and may be helpful in controlling fleas in the yard or even in the carpet.  They can be a little messy but do help.

Q: My dog recently tested positive for Lyme disease. Does that mean I can catch it from my dog?
A: No. People do not get Lyme disease directly from their pets. The disease is caused by a bacteria carried by a tick. The infection occurs when an infected tick bites a dog (or person). There are no documented cases of a dog infected with Lyme disease transmitting the disease to a person. If a person and their dog test positive for Lyme disease it is likely due to the fact that both are exposed to infected ticks in the environment and not because the dog passed the infection to the person.

Q: Why should I control parasites for my pet year-round?
A: Due to the large number of internal and external parasites and the high risk of pet infection, controlling parasites year-round is the most reliable way to ensure the highest level of health for your pet and well-being of your family. Year-round prevention is the most effective way to control cat and dog parasites and the diseases they can carry.

Q: Why can’t I treat my pet for parasites just during the summer months?
A: Parasites can infect your pet any time of year. While external parasites, such as fleas and ticks, may be less of a problem during certain times of the year, depending on where you live, internal parasites (worms) can be present year-round. That’s why it’s important to consult with your veterinarian to implement a year-round parasite control program.

Q: Do fleas on my pet present a health risk to my family?
A: Yes. Fleas can carry and transmit several potential illnesses to humans, including rickettsiosis (infection with Rickettsia) and bartonellosis (infection with Bartonella). Also, fleas serve as an intermediate host for tapeworms, which can infect both your pet and humans.

Q: What human-health problems are associated with ticks?
A: Ticks transmit a large number of diseases in North America. These diseases include Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, relapsing fever, ehrlichiosis, tularemia, and tick paralysis. It is important for the health of your pet, as well as the safety of your family, to include ticks in your pet’s year-round parasite control program.

Q: What kind of internal parasites or worms can infect my cat or dog?
A: There are a number of intestinal worms that can infect dogs and cats, and they vary according to the species. In general, these include tapeworms, roundworms, hookworms, and whipworms, and they are very prolific. In fact, one worm can produce more than 100,000 eggs per day, which are then passed in the pet’s feces and spread throughout the area the pet roams. Once in the environment, these eggs can remain infective and present a health risk for your pet and to humans for years.

Q: How does my dog or cat get intestinal worms (tapeworms, roundworms, hookworms, whipworms)?
A: Dogs and cats are most commonly infected when they ingest (eat) intestinal worm eggs that have been passed through the feces of an infected dog or cat. Tapeworms can be transmitted to pets that ingest fleas or other intermediate hosts, such as small rodents, that carry tapeworm larvae. Some worm species can be transmitted to puppies and kittens through the mother’s placenta and milk.

Q: How can my veterinarian determine if my pet has intestinal parasites (worms)?
A: Most intestinal parasites can be diagnosed through a physical examination and the microscopic analysis of your pet’s feces. Your veterinarian can conduct the examination and fecal tests to determine if your pet has worms and then prescribe the appropriate treatment or preventive program.

Q: If my dog or cat has intestinal worms, how do these parasites infect humans?
A: Roundworms are the most common intestinal parasite of pets and the most likely to be transmitted to humans. Humans can accidentally ingest infective worm eggs that have been passed through the pet’s feces and left in the environment. The eggs hatch in the human’s intestinal tract, and the immature worms travel to various tissues in the body, including the eyes and brain, causing serious infections.

Q: Are heartworms a parasite I should be concerned about for my pet?
A: Yes. Heartworms can be a very serious problem for both dogs and cats, especially those in mosquito-infested areas, as mosquitoes are a vector and intermediate host for the pest. Heartworms can kill or seriously debilitate pets that are infected with them. That’s because heartworms live in the bloodstream, lungs, and heart of infected pets. Your veterinarian can do a blood test to determine if your pet has heartworm disease. A year-round preventive program is most effective to keep pets free of heartworms.

Q: Can heartwoms that infect my dog or cat also infect humans?
A: Rarely will heartworms infect humans as humans are an aberrant host. However, human cases of heartworm infection have occurred, causing cysts in lungs or eyes.

Q: How can I reduce the risk of parasites infecting my family?
A: You can reduce the risk of parasitic infection by eliminating parasites from pets; restricting access to contaminated areas, such as sandboxes, pet “walk areas,” and other high-traffic areas, and practicing good personal hygiene. Disposing of pet feces on a regular basis can help remove potentially infective worm eggs before they become distributed in the environment and are picked up or ingested by pets or humans.

Q: I am pregnant and my doctor told me to get rid of my cat because it might have toxoplasmosis. What is toxoplasmosis and do I have to get rid of my cat?
A: Toxoplasma is a protozoal parasite that causes toxoplasmosis and is commonly found in raw or undercooked lamb or beef. It can harm a developing fetus. Cats can serve as an end-stage host for the parasite when they eat small rodents that carry the protozoa and then pass the infective oocysts of the parasite in their feces, thereby exposing pregnant women to possible infection. If you are pregnant, you do not need to get rid of your cat. Avoiding raw or undercooked meat, keeping your cat from hunting, and having someone else change the cat’s litter box daily will eliminate the risk of possible infection.

Q: My dog has been diagnosed with Lyme disease. How did he contract it, and can I catch the disease from him?
A: Lyme disease is caused by the Borrelia organism that is carried by the tiny deer tick, which is very common in many parts of the country. If you or your dog is bitten by a tick carrying this organism, you or your dog can contract Lyme disease. However, your dog cannot give the disease directly to you if it is infected. Your veterinarian can prescribe a program to treat the disease if it develops.

Q: My dog runs with another dog that is being treated for mange. What is it and should I be concerned?
A: There are several different types of mange, with the two most common types being sarcoptic mange or scabies and demodectic mange. Both are caused by tiny parasitic mites that burrow into the skin, which results in skin irritation, hair loss, and crusting or scabs forming.

Sarcoptic mange is nonseasonal and can infect dogs of any age or breed. Demodectic mange is a complex issue that involves a large number of mites (Demodex canis) in the hair follicles. The infestation can be either localized to the head or other part of the dog or generalized to a larger area. Sarcoptic mange is easily spread from dog to dog by direct contact; therefore, all dogs and other pets should be treated. Humans can also be infested with this parasite and should take precautions as well. Current data indicate that demodectic mange is not contagious.

Q: My cat’s ears are inflamed and it shakes its head frequently and scratches its ears. Does it have ear mites?
A: Quite possibly, but your veterinarian can provide a definite diagnosis. Ear mites are common in cats and are easily passed between animals, so it is important to treat all exposed pets. Ear mites can cause severe discomfort for the pet and lead to secondary ear infections if not promptly treated.

Nationwide, the high prevalence areas for ehrlichiosis are more wide-spread and less well-defined compared to other vector-borne pathogens. The maps represent multiples species of genus Ehrlichia that have different geographical ranges and vectors; however, all of them cause disease in dogs so the maps do represent disease risk for dogs. In general, the 2024 forecast is similar to 2023’s forecast which noted an expected increase in prevalence for the majority of the United States with some interesting emerging risk areas.

Importantly, Ehrlichiosis cases may vary from non-existent to endemic within a 200 miles range, leading to a strong need for local-level awareness and conversations with your veterinarian about your dog’s travel.

Overall, the 2024 trends in ehrlichiosis will be:

• The forecasted risks of Ehrlichia spp. in dogs remain high throughout the southeast, southwest, southcentral, and coastal Atlantic states.
• Compared to 2023, we expect increasing numbers of seropositive dogs in central California, northern Idaho, western Montana, western and central Washington, and parts of the Northeast (e.g., Vermont, New Hampshire, Connecticut). Risks also continue in much of Colorado and many parts of Wyoming. The relatively recent emergence of Ehrlichia muris eauclarensis in parts of Wisconsin and Minnesota emphasizes the need for testing and prevention in these areas.
• Considering the widespread prevalence of Ehrlichia spp. throughout much of the United States, the continued use of acaricides, routine examination of pets for the presence of ticks, and prompt removal remains imperative. Testing of symptomatic dogs can help monitor for ehrlichiosis and will also help reinforce the use of available tick control products.

What is Ehrlichiosis?

Ehrlichiosis is a disease caused by one or more different species of bacteria that infect white blood cells. Dogs get infected through the bite of several different species of infected ticks, such as the brown dog tick, the American dog tick or the lone star tick.

Infected dogs may show no signs at all, or there may be vague signs, such as fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, or nose bleeds. In some cases, chronic infection can lead to arthritis, immune cell abnormalities, and bone marrow suppression (which can be fatal). This is why early diagnosis and treatment are critical.

Humans and other pets in your household cannot catch Ehrlichiosis directly from an infected dog. However, infected dogs mean there may be infected ticks in the area that could transmit the bacteria to other household members.

Year-round tick control can help safeguard your dog

Within any geographic area, there may be several different kinds of ticks and each tick can potentially harbor more than one disease-causing agent.  People generally consider the summer to be the only time that dogs and people are at risk of getting ticks; however, some species of ticks, for example brown dog ticks and black-legged ticks, can be active throughout the winter. In addition, brown dog ticks can live indoors, increasing risk of year-around exposure. Even though avoiding tall grass and wooded areas can help to minimize your dog’s exposure to ticks, there is still a risk of infection.  That’s why CAPC recommends year-round tick control and regular screening tests for dogs.

There is no vaccine to prevent ehrlichiosis, so it is essential to use a tick control product that’s recommended by your veterinarian as being right for your dog.  Even with tick control, it’s a good idea to carefully check your dog’s entire body and remove attached ticks as soon as possible. Always use tweezers or other tick-removal devices and wear gloves to prevent exposure to disease-causing agents.

Stay current on vector-borne disease activity in your area

To help you identify the risk for parasite infection in your geographic area, CAPC provides Parasite Prevalence Maps down to the county level. The maps report the number of dogs testing positive for infection in your area, as well as in other regions where you may travel with your pet.

Parasites that affect pets and people are dynamic and ever changing, and CAPC is your trusted resource for accurate, timely information.  Sign up to receive local alerts on parasite testing results down to the county level today by visiting the CAPC Parasite Prevalence Maps and selecting "Get Updates".

Pet owners can also access 30-Day Parasite Forecast Maps at http://www.petdiseasealerts.org  These maps, developed exclusively by CAPC, provide a local forecast for every county in the continental United States on a monthly basis.

The CAPC Prevalence and Forecast Maps represent exposure to both Anaplasma phagocytophilum and Anaplasma platys. The two pathogens are transmitted by different tick vectors (Ixodes spp. and Rhipicephalus sanguineus, respectively) with different geographical ranges. However, the overlap in ranges prevents distinction between the two on the CAPC Prevalence and Forecast Maps. Prevention is mostly the same and requires limiting exposure to tick habitats, routine use of acaricides, and regular tick checks of pets.

The forecasts for 2024 for Anaplasmosis are:

• The seroprevalence of Anaplasma phagocytophilum in dogs continues to follow the expanding range of Ixodes scapularis and Borrelia burgdorferi. Major risks for dogs continue in the Northeast and upper Midwest. As was pointed out for Lyme borreliosis, the prevalence of A. phagocytophilum continues to spread southward and westward. Forecasts predict an increase in prevalence in eastern Kentucky, eastern Tennessee and northwestern North Carolina. Increased prevalence is also expected in western North Dakota and eastern Montana. Pet owners throughout these regions should discuss year-round use of tick preventives with their veterinarian and are encourages owners to check their dogs for ticks and remove them promptly. Annual testing can aid in assessing risk for dogs in hyper-endemic areas.
• Prevalence of Anaplasma phagocytophilum is expected to remain high throughout the Northeast. An increase is also expected in the western regions of the lower peninsula of Michigan.
• Regions of increase are also predicted in California, Texas, and the great plains, areas where A. platys is more common.
• Because many areas are expected to have increased prevalence, pet owners should remain particularly vigilant. Many of these areas are also at high risk for Lyme. The presence of more than one species of Anaplasma in some areas can create confusion, particularly in asymptomatic pets. Aggressive and compliant tick control can help eliminate some of the confusion.

What is anaplasmosis?

In dogs, anaplasmosis is a disease caused by Anaplasma phagocytophilum that infects white blood cells or Anaplasma platys that infects platelets (cells that aid in clotting).  Both bacteria are transmitted through the bite of ticks.  The black-legged tick transmits A. phagocytophilum, while the brown dog tick is believed to transmit A. platys. Similar to ehrlichiosis, dogs may not show any signs of infection. If they do, common signs include fever, lethargy, poor appetite, and muscle and joint pain. Chronic infection has not been observed.

Although infection is not transmitted directly from an infected dog to humans or other pets in the household, an infected dog does mean that ticks carrying the bacteria are present in the area that could bite and infect other pets and humans. This may be particularly important should your pet be diagnosed after some recent travel where you and your pet were recreating outdoors together.

Most cases of anaplasmosis are seen in the Northeastern and upper Midwestern states because A. phagocytophilum is carried by the same tick that transmits the bacteria that cause Lyme disease. As a result, it is possible to have both of these diseases at the same time. Recent research suggests that the range of black-legged ticks is expanding, bringing anaplasmosis and Lyme disease into new areas of the US. For both these reasons, use of year-round tick preventatives is strongly recommended, even in dogs vaccinated against Lyme disease (because ticks can carry many other pathogens not covered by the Lyme vaccine).

Within any geographic area, there may be several different kinds of ticks and each tick can have several different stages (larvae, nymphs and adults that may look quite different from each other). Also, as noted above an individual tick may also harbor more than one disease-causing agent.  People generally consider the summer to be the only time that dogs and people are at risk of getting ticks; however, some species of ticks or stages, for example brown dog ticks and adult black-legged ticks, can be active throughout the winter. In addition, brown dog ticks can live indoors, increasing risk of year-around exposure. Even though avoiding tall grass and wooded areas can help to minimize your dog’s exposure to ticks, there is still a risk of infection.  That’s why CAPC recommends year-round tick control and regular screening tests for tick-borne infections in dogs.

There is no vaccine to prevent anaplasmosis, so it is essential to use a tick control product that’s recommended by your veterinarian as being right for your dog.  Even with tick control, it’s a good idea to carefully check your dog’s entire body and remove attached ticks as soon as possible. Always use tweezers or other tick-removal devices and wear gloves to prevent exposure to disease-causing agents.

Stay current on vector-borne disease activity in your area

To help you identify the risk for parasite infection in your geographic area, CAPC provides Parasite Prevalence Maps down to the county level. The maps report the number of dogs testing positive for infection in your area, as well as in other regions where you may travel with your pet.

Parasites that affect pets and people are dynamic and ever changing, and CAPC is your trusted resource for accurate, timely information. Sign up to receive local alerts on parasite testing results down to the county level today by visiting the CAPC Parasite Prevalence Maps and selecting "Get Updates".

Veterinary professionals and pet owners who want to monitor parasite activity in their county throughout the year, can also access 30-Day Parasite Forecast Maps at http://www.petdiseasealerts.org These. maps, developed exclusively by CAPC, provide a local forecast for every county in the continental United States on a monthly basis.

Pathogens that cause heartworm disease, Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, and anaplasmosis continue to increase and spread throughout the United States. The risk of vector-borne disease is complex and involves the interaction of vectors, pathogens, hosts, host behaviors, and habitats. Land use and climate change, human population growth, urbanization, changes in wildlife host and vector densities and distributions, and increasing international trade and travel are all factors that directly impact vector-borne diseases. An interdisciplinary approach between human, animal, and ecosystem health, referred to as One Health, recognizes the diversity of factors involved in vector-borne disease risks.

Risks have increased due to rehoming of pets, changes in distribution and prevalence of vector populations, habitat changes, changes in wildlife populations and increased interactions with them in newly developed and reclaimed areas, and the short and long-term changes in climatic conditions.

Ticks and mosquitoes remain the principal transmitters of pet and human vector-borne pathogens. The recent discovery of the invasive Asian long-horned tick (Haemaphysalis longicornis) in the eastern United States, and the continuing recovery of H. longicornis southward and westward of the original site, adds to our concern about disease agents that might be transmitted by this tick. According to the CDC, between 2004 and 2016, mosquito-borne and tick-borne disease incidence in people in the United States tripled, with much of this increase due to tick-borne pathogens which were reported in higher numbers and across a larger geographic area. The CAPC 2024 forecasts for vector-borne diseases in dogs, supported by ongoing research, continued to highlight areas where we can do more to lower the risk of exposure of companion animals to vectors of concern. The best preventive measures that veterinarians and their clients can take is to prevent contact between companion animals and these vectors. The foundation of these prevention strategies are the recommended use of products that kill and/or repel mosquitoes and ticks, administration of approved vaccines, and the compliant use of year-round preventives.

Lyme Forecast

The tick vector (Ixodes scapularis) of Lyme disease (Borrelia burgdorferi) continues to expand its geographic range. These ticks (called black-legged ticks) also transmit other important agents such as Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Babesia spp., Borrelia miyamotoi, Ehrlichia muris eauclarensis, several viruses, and possibly Bartonella spp. On-going research is increasing the spectrum of disease agents transmitted by black-legged ticks. Lyme disease is an important One Health pathogen that impacts the health of both humans, dogs, and horses.

• The 2024 forecast for Lyme disease in dogs is similar to the 2023 forecast with the geographic distribution of Lyme disease continuing to expand southward and westward outside of the historically high-risk areas (Northeast and Upper Midwest).
• We expect minor increases beyond last year’s forecasts in eastern Tennessee, Indiana, and North Dakota. High-risk “hot-spots” are again predicted in northern and southwestern Lower Michigan, and southern Indiana.High risks of Lyme disease persist in all portions of the Northeast, the upper mid-western states of Wisconsin, Minnesota, and the upper peninsula of Michigan. A higher than normal risk is expected to continue in North Dakota, northeastern South Dakota, southeastern Iowa, Illinois, and eastern Kentucky. For the first time, Lyme forecasts include eastern Montana.
• The southward movement of Borrelia burgdorferi is also evident in the increasing risk in North Carolina and Tennessee. Higher risk areas in parts of coastal North Carolina continue as was reported in the 2022 and 2023 forecasts. The 2024 Lyme prevalence maps, indicate that one northern North Carolina county has a prevalence rate of 44% (72 positive of 163 tested). Although this number represents a small number of dogs tested to date, the emerging data validates and emphasizes our reminders that pets and pet owners do not have to travel to the traditional endemic areas of the Northeast to encounter substantial Lyme disease risks.

Pet owners living or traveling in areas endemic for Lyme disease, or those areas on the edges of Lyme disease endemic areas should talk to their veterinarian about testing and protecting their dogs against this disease that is a threat to both animals and their owners. A vaccination for Lyme disease should always be considered for pets in high-risk areas. Keep in mind that potential spread of Lyme Borreliosis can occur anywhere the tick vector is present.

What is Lyme disease?

Lyme disease is a bacterial infection transmitted through the bite of an infected black-legged tick (including eastern and western black-legged ticks). Infected dogs may show signs such as shifting-leg lameness, fever, lethargy and loss of appetite, although the majority of infected dogs show no signs at all. Lyme disease can lead to systemic complications including renal disease.

People and other pets in your household can’t catch Lyme disease directly from an infected dog. However, infected dogs do indicate that there are infected ticks in the area that may transmit the infection to other household members.

Year-round tick control and vaccination can help safeguard your dog

Within any geographic area, there are likely several different species of ticks and each tick can harbor more than one disease-causing agent.  Some species of ticks can also be active during the winter. While it helps to limit your dog’s exposure to ticks by avoiding tall grass and wooded areas, this approach may not always be feasible. That’s why CAPC recommends year-round tick control and regular screening tests for dogs. Also, don’t forget that cats can get ticks and there are important tick-borne pathogens of cats (e.g., cytauxzoonosis).

Keep your pets and family safe from tick-borne disease. Talk to your veterinarian about Lyme disease prevention, including year-round use of tick preventive and vaccination.

Heartworm Forecast

• We expect the high risk of heartworm infection to continue along the Mississippi river, throughout the southern portions of the interior Midwest, and along the Atlantic coast north into Virginia and southern New Jersey. The prevalence of heartworm continues to increase in the mid-Atlantic region, pushing northward into the densely populated regions of the northeast. The number and diversity of mosquitoes teamed with the population densities of the region support that heartworm infections are more likely to affect the health of increasing numbers of dogs in those areas.
• Pet owners in states with historically lower prevalence are again cautioned about the increasing risk of heartworm infection and are encouraged to have a discussion with their veterinarian about the changing prevalence. This is particularly important in southern Indiana, central and southern Illinois, southern Iowa, Kansas, and Lower Michigan and Ohio in the Great Lakes region.
• Additional areas likely to experience increased risk include the southwest (New Mexico), large portions of Colorado, and the northern Great Plains.
• Forecast of increased risk continues in northern California, with an additional increased likelihood of infection in western North Dakota, eastern Montana, and northwest South Dakota.
• We expect that much of the upper Midwest and the Northeast will have little change, perhaps indicating that increased emphasis on vector control and compliant heartworm prevention are having an impact in these regions. It is important to remember that areas of greater local prevalence and increased risk are likely to remain in some areas within these regions.
• The risk of heartworm infection reported during the previous years in much of central and southern Florida remains. However, the predicted prevalence in southcentral Florida decreased slightly. Perhaps increased post-pandemic veterinary visits and compliance has helped to lessen what was once a severe emerging risk.
• Very few regions are expected to have lower-than-average prevalence. It is important to remember that changes in local environments could create risks that might not be evident in the broader regional forecasts

Year-round use of preventive products remains the best means of providing comprehensive internal and external parasite control. Annual testing is recommended to monitor compliance and preventive efficacy.

What is Heartworm disease?

A serious and potentially fatal condition, heartworm disease has been diagnosed in all 50 states of the country. It only takes a single mosquito bite for pets to become infected with heartworm larvae.

In dogs, the larvae mature into adult worms in the heart and nearby blood vessels, often leading to heart and lung failure. Signs may include coughing, trouble breathing, and exercise intolerance, although some dogs may show no signs at all.

Cats and ferrets can get heartworm disease too. While cats are less likely to develop large numbers of adult worms, immature heartworms can damage the lungs, leading to coughing, asthma-like signs, or vomiting.  Even indoor cats are at risk — studies show that up to 30% of cats diagnosed with heartworm disease were described as strictly indoor.Year-round tick control and vaccination can help safeguard your dog

Should your pet be on year-round heartworm preventive, even during the winter months?

The answer is yes. Mosquito numbers are tied closely to heat and humidity. An early spring or warm, wet fall can cause mosquitoes to emerge early or be active later in the season. Activity may be noted sporadically in the winter during periods of warm weather. Major weather events, such as hurricanes can also cause extensive changes in mosquito prevalence. The single most effective way to avoid timing mistakes with heartworm preventive is to keep dogs, cats, and ferrets on medication year-round and have your dog tested at least once a year. Your veterinarian can recommend an effective preventive that’s right for your pet.

Annual Testing is critical for the health of your pet

CAPC recommends that all dogs be tested annually for both heartworm antigens and microfilariae, even if they are on year-round preventives. Cats should be tested for the presence of heartworm antigen and antibody before starting them on preventive.

The science behind the forecasts

How are the CAPC Forecast maps constructed? Numerous factors are analyzed, including the number of positive tests for the bacterial infection and the influence of weather patterns, vegetation types, and human population density. Leading parasitologists work in collaboration with a team of statisticians to identify regions of the country that may experience higher parasite numbers in the months ahead. While these forecasts predict the potential risk of a dog testing positive, they do not necessarily reflect clinical disease. The best source of information on parasitic disease is your local veterinarian: they are your local experts and the best provider of healthcare information for your pets.

Stay current on vector-borne disease

To help you identify the risk for parasite infection in your geographic area, CAPC provides Parasite Prevalence Maps down to the county level.  These maps report the number of dogs testing positive for infection in your area, as well as in other regions where you may travel with your pet.  Parasites that affect pets and people are dynamic and ever changing, and CAPC is your trusted resource for accurate, timely information.

Sign up to receive local alerts on parasite testing results down to the county level today by visiting the CAPC Parasite Prevalence Maps and selecting "Get Updates".

Pet owners who want to monitor parasite activity in their county throughout the year, can also access 30-Day Parasite Forecast Maps at http://www.petdiseasealerts.org These. maps, developed exclusively by CAPC, provide a local forecast for every county in the continental United States on a monthly basis.

Click on the diseases to learn more about the 2024 forecasts for Ehrlichiosis and Anaplasmosis

(1) Sample size

The number of tests conducted is the denominator used and, as such, directly influences the percentage of dogs which will be reported as testing positive. Inadequate sample size is the most common limitation in being able to accurately interpret results from any survey tool. When no pets are tested, we cannot draw any conclusions about the prevalence of disease. However, when too few pets are tested, the small size of the denominator (sample size) will artificially inflate a few positive samples or obscure the importance of positives not yet detected. In other words, small sample size precludes accurate interpretation of any survey. In general, as sample size increases, so does the statistical power, or validity, of the data.

Because of these complications, caution should be employed in interpreting any percentages generated by testing a small number of pets, particularly when the pathogen presence is entirely unexpected. While these unexpected results could be due to recent spread or recognition of a disease agent in a given area, they can also result from a number of other factors, including the background or source of the pets tested or the nature of the tests used (see below) rather than true presence of infection.

(2) History of pet prior to testing

Certain pets are more likely to test positive than others. For example, a pet that was recently rescued or adopted may not have been protected from infection previously and thus is more likely to harbor parasites. In addition, pets that have recently moved into an area may arrive with infections acquired previously. Dogs imported from a high prevalence area for heartworm and tested after arrival may result in a number of “new” heartworm cases appearing in a location where infection historically was relatively rare. Similarly, dogs that have antibodies to the agent of Lyme disease may move with their owners to another region, such as the southern United States, where infection with the agent of Lyme borreliosis is much less common.

Complete historical information is not available for each of the more than one million dogs tested and included on the maps. However, unexpected positive results, particularly when clustered around areas with frequent population turnover such as metropolitan areas, military bases, retirement communities, and college towns, should be interpreted with caution as they may represent infections in translocated pets rather than locally acquired infections.

(3) Motivation for testing

Veterinarians are judicious in recommending diagnostic assays for a given patient and respectful of limited client resources. Accordingly, pets that are more likely to harbor infections, including those exhibiting clinical signs of disease or those with a history of exposure based on lifestyle or previous residence, are more likely to receive a test from a veterinarian. When pets that are more likely to be infected are disproportionately tested, the number of positive results increases as does the calculated percentage of positive test results. This increase in positive results is more likely to be seen in areas where the tests are used more commonly for diagnostic verification of a suspected infection than for routine screening.

(4) Nature of assays used and impact of local or population-based prevalence of infection

Although assays used in testing pets often appear to be similar, individual tests vary in sensitivity and specificity, which can influence overall results. Tests with poor sensitivity may underestimate the prevalence of infection in a given population, while tests with poor specificity can overestimate the presence of infection as false positive results are recorded. In addition, the predictive value of a given assay, or the actual precision in use, is dependent not only on individual test performance but also the prevalence of infection in the population considered.

For a given test, if sensitivity and specificity are held constant, predictive value tracks with prevalence; higher prevalence results in a higher positive predictive value, meaning any given positive result is, on average, more likely to be a true positive so long as infection is fairly common. When infections are rare, the positive predictive value decreases and the negative predictive value

Antibody tests for tick-borne disease agents (Borrelia burgdorferi, Ehrlichia spp., and Anaplasma spp.)

A minimum sensitivity of 90% and a minimum specificity of 90% are required for all canine tick-borne disease antibody assays.  To include the data on the map, CAPC also requires that the test employed be externally validated via approval by the Department of Agriculture (USDA).  Information regarding USDA regulation of diagnostic tests can be found at: http://www.aphis.usda.gov/animal_health/vet_biologics/publications/pel_4_7.pdf

Antigen tests for heartworm

A minimum sensitivity of 90% and a minimum specificity of 90% are required for all canine heartworm antigen tests.  Because the sensitivity of some heartworm antigen tests declines at lower worm burdens, the 90% sensitivity requirement applies only when three or more adult female worms are present.  To include the data on the map, CAPC requires that the test employed be approved by the USDA, as for the tick-borne disease diagnostics described above.

Intestinal parasites (all tested for via fecal flotation)

The roundworm, hookworm, and whipworm data are acquired for the maps via centrifugal fecal flotation.  Because sensitivity and specificity are variable, all fecal results that follow procedures which include centrifugation and minimum sample size of one gram are accepted.  The resultant data must be interpreted understanding these limitations.

For additional information on interpreting the maps more accurately, please see the related article Key Factors That Influence the Map Results.

So, what exactly are bed bugs?

Bed bugs are insects in the family Cimicidae. Two species are associated with humans (others are parasites of birds, bats and other mammals): Cimex lectularius is present worldwide, while Cimex hemipterus is a tropical bug. These are small (1-7 mm) brownish-red, flattened, wingless, blood-feeding insects; adults are about the size of a grain of rice. They have 6 legs and 2 long antennae made up of 4 segments. Bed bugs, as the name implies, are present mainly in areas where people and animals sleep. They are active at night (peak activity is usually between midnight and 6 am) when they feed on sleeping people and animals. Females lay eggs in cracks and crevices (e.g. head boards, box springs, bed frames, mattress seams, furniture joints, baseboard cracks, etc.), places where bed bugs routinely hide while not feeding.  These eggs hatch into nymphs, which are miniature replicas of the adults. After 5 generations of nymphs, adults develop. Adults then mate and produce more eggs. All stages of bed bugs (excluding eggs, of course), feed on blood typically every 8-10 days, but they can go months without a meal.

Why are bed bugs important?

As mentioned above, these bugs must feed on blood, and will feed on humans as well as cats and dogs.  Fortunately, bed bugs have not been shown to transmit any diseases; however, their bites can cause anemia (especially in children), pruritus (itchiness), allergic reactions, discomfort, sleeplessness, and stress.  In addition, they can be very hard to control or eradicate (especially in multi-family homes and buildings), leading sometimes to great monetary expense. In addition, because bed bug infestations may require at least some insecticide use, their presence increases exposure of people and animals to pesticides; it is of utmost importance that these chemicals, if used, be used only as specified on their labels to reduce the risk of health problems from these potentially toxic compounds.

How do bed bugs get into a home or building?

Bed bugs are great hitch-hikers and expert hiders. Due to their small size, they can hide away and be transported into a home through “passive transport”, that is: they simply hitch a ride in furniture seams, mattress folds, seams in luggage, folded clothes, bedding, etc.  In multi-family or multi-occupancy homes and buildings (e.g. apartment buildings, hotels, shelters, rooming houses, cruise ships) bed bugs can also move actively between rooms (i.e. they can literally walk from one room to another). Bed bugs are closely associated with people and our belongings. Although bugs can sometimes be found on cats and dogs, this situation is unusual; it is not likely that cats and dogs will introduce a bed bug infestation into a home because any bugs that crawled onto them to feed during the night generally would have gone into hiding during the day. So, it is more likely the bugs are stowed away in your luggage than on your cat or dog (or on you, for that matter).

Will bed bugs bite cats and dogs?

Yes, in addition to biting and feeding on people, bedbugs are known to feed on cats and dogs in infested homes. 
How do you know if you have an infestation?
There are several clues or signs that can help identify infestations. In rare reports, people have observed bed bugs crawling on themselves, or their pets. However, as mentioned above, this is unusual. More likely, are the telltale signs of small insect bites anywhere on the body; these may resemble those of other biting insects (mosquitos or fleas), so it is important to look for other signs. Like other insects, bed bugs must shed their exoskeletons in order to grow, so finding these “molts” can help identify an infestation, as well as finding actual bed bugs in the folds of the mattress or trapped in the sheets. In addition, bed bug feces may leave rusty spots on bedding or nearby furniture and bugs are said to give a sweet, musty odor to areas in which they are present.  Additionally, a number of commercial bed bug traps and monitors are now available, and bed bug detecting dogs can sniff out infestations.

What can you do if you believe you have bedbugs in your home?

If you believe there are already bedbugs in your home, try to collect a sample for an expert to identify, and contact your landlord or a pest control company that has experience with bed bug control.  Controlling and eradicating bed bugs is a process that will take time and patience. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in conjunction with the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency, have put together a joint statement on bedbug control, which includes non-chemical as well as chemical measures for control - statement .  Frequent vacuuming and laundering (including drying in high heat), reduction of clutter, and sealing cracks and crevices can help reduce the number of bugs. Use of diatomaceous earth may also be helpful in this regard. If the infestation is not heavy, these measures alone could eventually eradicate the infestation. However, in certain situations, use of effective and approved pesticides by professionals may be needed. Remember, if a product does not have a U.S. EPA registration number, it has not been reviewed by the EPA and its safety and efficacy against bed bugs is not known. In addition, any pesticide to be used against bed bugs should have these bugs explicitly listed on the label, otherwise it is unknown if the product would be of any use against them.

Can pet anti-tick and anti-flea products keep bed bugs away?

Anti-tick and anti-flea pet products are just that: tick and flea products. They were not developed to protect pets against bed bugs and would be expected to have little or no effect on an infestation.

How can I protect my pets from a bed bug infestation?

Bed bugs do not live on animals the way fleas do. They are hidden in the environment and come out only at night to feed. Thus, it is unusual for pets to carry bugs on them.  Protecting pets from bed bugs is achieved by default as you protect yourself and your home from bed bugs: through vigilance and hygiene. If you already have an infestation at home, eradicating that infestation will keep your entire family (including your pets) protected from the nuisance of bed bugs. When travelling (with or without your pet), check areas around the bed (head board and box spring, especially) for bed bugs or signs of bed bug infestation. Remember that these bugs are visible to the naked eye, although they are small. Keep luggage, pet crates and pet bedding away from the bed, if possible (consider storing them in the bathroom or a space away from sleeping areas and couches). When leaving your hotel, inspect all luggage, pet crates and pet bedding carefully to try to ensure no hidden bugs will be travelling home with you.  Consider having your pet bathed and groomed before bringing them home (this may remove any bugs from the animal if they happen to be present), and visually inspect your pet for bed bugs. Luggage, pet carriers, and bedding can be left in the car for about 1-2 weeks after you return home. In areas of the country with extreme weather (hot and cold) this can further reduce the number of live bed bugs by heat-killing or freezing them. When you do bring these belongings into your home, launder everything immediately (clothing, pet bedding, etc.) being sure to use hot water and/or the dryer on medium-high heat; washing alone will not kill bed bugs, but high-heat drying will.  There is no fail-safe way to ensure that you, your belongings or your pet will not bring unwanted guests home, but these measures can help reduce the risk.

By Araceli Lucio-Forster, PhD.
Teaching Support Specialist, Department of Microbiology and Immunology
College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University

Aren’t babies wonderful?! They’re the embodiment of your hopes and dreams and so full of wonder and curiosity. But the explorations and investigations of young children can bring some unexpected exposures to dangers you may not see. These risks are completely avoidable in most cases.

While you are pregnant:

During pregnancy Toxoplasmosis presents an uncommon but serious risk to your pregnancy. Some simple steps can be taken to eliminate the risk. Be sure meats you eat are properly cooked. Do not choose this time to introduce a kitten into your home. Avoid contact with cat litter boxes if possible. Wash produce before consuming and wash your hands after working in the garden.

Infants, toddlers and pets:

In addition to the concerns you might have about Toxoplasmosis impacting your pregnancy, there are some parasites of animals that can directly impact young children and adults alike. You may already have a pet in your family. You may be considering adding a pet in the future … after all kids and pets just go together. But even if you choose not to have a puppy or kitten in your home, your baby will almost surely come in contact with dogs and cats. Animals add so much to life. However, there are some precautions you can take to protect your family and particularly your young children from diseases that can pass from animals to humans, including some of the easiest-to-prevent parasites. Check the list at right for 10 quick steps you can take now.

Learn more:

Start by visiting with your physician. Your obstetrician and pediatrician can help reassure you with some common sense advice on hygiene. If you have pets, take them to your veterinarian regularly and be sure to use parasite control products available from your veterinarian. These products are convenient, safe, effective and affordable. They will keep your pet free of parasites and help protect your family from the risks of human exposure.

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Your concerns about the health of your family extend well beyond the birth of your baby. So do ours.

For many people, pets are an important part of the family circle. Naturally, you want to protect your family, and your baby in particular, from needless exposure to internal parasites such as worms and external parasites such as fleas and ticks. Some pets can harbor zoonotic parasites that can potentially be transmitted from your pets to your family.

Making sure your pet is on a year-round parasite control program is good health care for your pet and your family. Also, be sure your pet receives regular checkups from your veterinarian and is treated for any external and internal parasites that might be present. Soon your infant will be an exploring toddler. Be certain that pet feces are picked up outdoors at least daily and that any play areas and sandboxes are covered to prevent animals from soiling them. Parasites carried by wildlife can be particularly concerning, so do not feed wildlife and do not allow children to play in areas frequented by wildlife.

Toxocara (a type of roundworm) is a zoonotic parasite that can be acquired from soil contaminated with the feces of cats and dogs. It is of little concern during pregnancy but does pose a potential risk to infants and small children. Roundworm eggs are extremely hardy and remain in the environment (e.g., dirt, sandboxes) for a long time. Young children are particularly vulnerable to exposure and infection because they are more likely to put dirt, contaminated food or other objects into their mouths.

Pets greatly enhance our lives. However, precautions for preventing the spread of zoonotic diseases are necessary, particularly when small children are involved. Do not allow children to put foreign objects from the ground in their mouth, and always wash children’s hands and your own after playing with pets.

Though the risk of these diseases affecting your baby is low, any danger can be further minimized with a few simple measures.

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See our 10 tips for protecting your family and and your pet.

Two of the most common parasitic diseases in the U.S. can be transmitted by our pets.

Toxocariasis is a parasitic worm infection that results from the accidental ingestion of parasite eggs passed in the feces of infected dogs and cats. A study from Connecticut published in 2005 found that more than one-fourth of soil samples from playgrounds are contaminated with Toxocara eggs, while another study published in 2001 determined that 10 percent or more of inner-city children are infected with this parasite. Children are particularly vulnerable to Toxocara parasites, developing fever and damage to their lungs and liver, as well as visual loss. There is even evidence to suggest that Toxocara parasites may be an important environmental cause of asthma and seizures.

Toxoplasmosis is a parasitic protozoan infection that results from either eating uncooked meat or ingesting the parasite cysts excreted by household cats that are in the shedding phase of infection. When this infection occurs during pregnancy it can be passed on to the fetus and cause severe congenital abnormalities including blindness and mental retardation. Up to 4,000 cases of congenital toxoplasmosis occur annually in the United States. Unfortunately, many cases are not detected in time. Currently, only the states of Massachusetts and New Hampshire conduct newborn screening for toxoplasmosis.

Toxocariasis and toxoplasmosis are both treatable and preventable diseases. Unfortunately, parents and even many health care providers in the U.S. are not aware of the extent of these diseases and the simple steps they can take to prevent transmission from pets to their children. The Companion Animal Parasite Council (CAPC) has been established in order to highlight the awareness of these so-called zoonotic parasitic diseases. The Council advocates the importance of reducing the risk of parasitic infection to your family by eliminating parasites from pets through simple treatments from your veterinarian; restricting access of your children to contaminated areas, such as sandboxes, pet “walk areas” and other high-traffic areas; and practicing good personal hygiene. The CAPC (www.petsandparasites. org) also supports stepped-up measures to conduct newborn toxoplasmosis screening in all 50 states.

Most of our pets are infected at some point in their lifetimes with parasites, and there is a real risk that they could be transmitted to children and pregnant women. It is important that parents, veterinarians and health care professionals have awareness of this fact of nature and make the effort to protect our families accordingly.

By Peter Hotez
President, Sabin Vaccine Institute
Walter G. Ross Prefessor, George Washington University

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SALEM, ORE. (April 24, 2019) —The Companion Animal Parasite Council (CAPC), the leading source on parasitic diseases that threaten the health of pets and people, today released its annual 2019 parasite forecast and corresponding 30-day forecast maps to alert pet owners of pending outbreaks. Parasite infections are real and can be deadly to pets. CAPC predicts that heartworm will be higher than average especially in areas of the Southeast United States; the forecast for Lyme disease is for a continued spread in the Atlantic Coast and Midwest.

“We started providing our annual forecasts over eight years ago because of the dynamic and ever changing nature of parasites,” says Dr. Christopher Carpenter, DVM and Executive Director of CAPC. “Over the years, we have seen these diseases continue to move. Our annual forecast will alert pet owners to the risks this year and remind them that our pets need to be tested and protected year-round.”

Pet owners who want to monitor the activity in their county throughout the year, now have access to 30-Day Parasite Forecast Maps at  www.petdiseasealerts.org. These maps, developed exclusively by CAPC, provide a local forecast for every county in the continental United States on a monthly basis. This free service helps to remind pet owners of the continuous risk in their area and the importance of annual parasite testing and year-round protection.

According to CAPC, the risk of acquiring  heartworm disease in 2019 is very real  due to the expansive nature of the disease. This increase in heartworm prevalence can be attributed to weather and the transportation of companion animals from one area of the country to another. A warmer than usual  and humid weather pattern has created an ideal breeding condition for mosquitoes across the country. Mosquitoes are responsible for the transmission  of the  parasite that causes heartworm disease. Heartworm disease can be deadly to pets. 

Heartworm isn’t the only threat pet owners will need to be watchful for. CAPC also predicts that Lyme disease will be higher in three key areas this year, most notably throughout the Appalachian region, Minnesota and the Atlantic Coast. Lyme disease is transmitted by ticks and is spreading as the white-tailed deer population grows and migratory birds carry ticks to new areas. Veterinarians and pet owners should test annually and use tick preventative/acaricidal treatment year-round. High-risk patients for vector-borne disease should be tested and consider a vaccination for Lyme disease.

The forecasts support CAPC’s recommendation for annual testing and having pets on preventative treatment year-round. For 2019, CAPC predicts the following risk areas for parasite-related diseases:

• Infection with heartworm, which causes a potentially fatal disease is expected to be higher than average in the south central and southeastern states. The areas of greatest concern are those along the Mississippi River from northern Louisiana all the way into Illinois. In addition, areas with historically lower prevalences of heartworm should particularly take note of predicted higher prevalence including Indiana, Illinois and Iowa. Southern Louisana and a small area along the Texas border are currently forecasted to be lower than average. Pet owners should take extra care to limit their pets’ exposure to mosquitoes, test their pets annually for heartworm diseases and use heartworm preventatives year-round.
• Lyme disease is a high threat again this year and is “oozing” into the entire Appalachian region, the Atlantic Coast, and throughout Wisconsin and Minnesota. Pets living in or traveling to these states are considered at high risk; pet owners should talk to their veterinarian about a Lyme vaccination in addition to testing for the disease and protecting year-round against ticks.
• Transmission of the agents of anaplasmosis is again forecasted to be average for much of the United States. However, northwestern Minnesota is forecasted to have an active year. There are some bright spots which are expected to see less activity than normal including the Atlantic coast of New England, the Wisconsin/Minnesota border, the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and southern Texas. 
• Ehrlichiosis is expected to be higher throughout the southern central United States, particularly in Oklahoma, Arkansas and Missouri. There are several small areas scattered throughout the south central and southeastern states that are predicted to be lower than average, most notably eastern Arkansas and across the border of North Carolina and Virginia.

How the forecasts are created:
The Parasite Forecasts are a collaborative effort from parasitologists and statisticians in leading academic institutions across the United States who engage in ongoing research and data interpretation to better understand and monitor vector-borne disease agent transmission and changing life cycles of parasites. The annual CAPC Parasite Forecasts are based on many factors including temperature, precipitation and population density.

About the Companion Animal Parasite Council
The Companion Animal Parasite Council (www.capcvet.org) is an independent not-for-profit foundation comprised of parasitologists, veterinarians, medical, public health and other professionals that provides information for the optimal control of internal and external parasites that threaten the health of pets and people. Formed in 2002, the CAPC works to help veterinary professionals and pet owners develop the best practices in parasite management that protect pets from parasitic infections and reduce the risk of zoonotic parasite transmission.

According to CAPC, the expansive nature of heartworm is partially attributed to the hot and wet weather over a two-year span. Shifting weather patterns have created ideal breeding conditions for mosquitoes across the country. Mosquitoes transmit the parasite that causes heartworm disease which can be deadly to pets. Another contributing factor is the relocation of many unknown heartworm positive dogs across the country, who survived these dangerous storms.

Heartworm isn’t the only parasite pet owners will need to be watchful for. CAPC also predicts the spread of Lyme disease into non-endemic areas including the Dakotas, Iowa, Missouri, southern Illinois, Ohio, Kentucky, Tennessee and North Carolina. A Lyme disease agent is transmitted by ticks and is spreading as the white-tailed deer population grows and migratory birds carry ticks to new areas.

“Our annual forecasts provide critical and important information to help veterinarians and pet owners understand parasites are a true risk to both pets and people,” said Dr. Dwight Bowman, CAPC board member and professor of parasitology at Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. “This year, there are significant shifts in prevalence, making our maps a critical educational tool for veterinary hospitals, and allowing veterinarians and pet owners to see that parasites are ever changing and widespread, sometimes surprisingly so.”

The forecasts support CAPC’s recommendation for annual testing and having pets on preventative treatment year-round. For 2018, CAPC predicts the following risk areas for parasite-related diseases:

• Infection with heartworm, which causes a potentially fatal disease is expected to be above average nationwide. The forecast also predicts the hyper-endemic prevalence seen in the lower Mississippi River region will be even more active than normal. Veterinarians in the northern tier states from Washington State to Vermont should be on alert as this area may see a problematic rise in heartworm infections among their patients.
• Lyme disease is a high threat again this year and is now seen to be “oozing” into non-endemic areas. Veterinarians living close to Lyme’s endemic boundary line (the Dakotas, Iowa, Missouri, Southern Illinois, Ohio, Kentucky, Tennessee and North Carolina) should be on high alert. Western Pennsylvania, eastern Ohio, West Virginia and the Appalachian region in Virginia need to prepare for an active year. As for Washington, DC to Philadelphia, PA and eastward (including the Delmarva area) and the Boston/Cape Cod area: congratulations, you are expected to see a little relief this year.
• Transmission of the agents of anaplasmosis is forecasted to be average for much of the United States. However, northwestern Minnesota is forecasted to have an active year. Two bright spots are the Wisconsin/Minnesota border area as well as the Boston/Cape Cod region, which are expected to see less activity than normal.
• Ehrlichiosis is always geographically challenging. The disease can be nonexistent to rampant within 200 miles. Southern Virginia and northern North Carolina are forecasted to be more active than normal. The rest of the United States is expected to see about normal prevalence in 2018.

CAPC offers prevalence data that localizes reported parasitic disease activity at the county level for veterinarians to use in their discussions about annual testing and year-round protection. This information is available for free at the CAPC website www.petsandparasites.org. Pet owners can use these maps as a reminder of the importance of year-round protection.

The Parasite Forecasts represent the collective expert opinion of academic parasitologists who engage in ongoing research and data interpretation to better understand and monitor vector-borne disease agent transmission and changing life cycles of parasites. The annual CAPC Parasite Forecasts are based on many factors including temperature, precipitation and population density.

The Companion Animal Parasite Council (www.capcvet.org) is an independent not-for-profit foundation comprised of parasitologists, veterinarians, medical, public health and other professionals that provides information for the optimal control of internal and external parasites that threaten the health of pets and people. Formed in 2002, the CAPC works to help veterinary professionals and pet owners develop the best practices in parasite management that protect pets from parasitic infections and reduce the risk of zoonotic parasite transmission.
 

In an effort to monitor and report emerging threats to companion animal health, CAPC will now provide monthly updates on the metro areas experiencing significant increases in reports of selected parasitic disease.

During February 2018, these ten cities ranked the highest for an increase in the number of heartworm disease cases being detected:

• Salinas, CA
• Seattle, WA
• Lexington-Fayette, KY
• Durham, NC
• Jersey City, NJ
• Springfield, MO
• Modesto, CA
• Amarillo, TX
• San Francisco, CA
• Topeka, KS

This CAPC Top Ten Cities list summarizes the metro areas across the United States that experienced the greatest percentage increase in positive heartworm disease tests during the month.  Mosquitoes transmit the parasite that causes heartworm disease, and areas with warmer climates and stable bodies of water, such as lakes and rivers or containers of water around homes, experience higher numbers of mosquitoes that can transmit the parasite. Pets in these cities and surrounding areas may have been exposed locally or travel-related exposure may have been a contributor to these notable increases.   This is why CAPC recommends year round protection of pets against heartworm disease regardless of where pets reside.

As pointed out by CAPC board member Dr. Michael Yabsley, “What this ranking shows us is that heartworm disease is a national threat and pets are vulnerable to this disease in almost every community across the country.” The CAPC rankings demonstrate vector-borne disease is dynamic and ever-changing, and will enable veterinarians and pet owners to understand that vector-borne disease frequently expands beyond perceived boundaries of established endemic regions. 

Although these cities are broadly disseminated across the United States, there are many other areas that are experiencing an increase in parasitic disease prevalence, thus CAPC intends for monthly ranking reports to prompt conversations between veterinarians and pet owners about the importance of annual testing and year-round prevention.

SALEM, ORE. (April 18, 2017) —The Companion Animal Parasite Council (CAPC), the leading source on parasitic diseases that threaten the health of pets and people, has released its annual parasite forecasts. The big story this year is the impact the milder temperatures and increased precipitation has had on mosquitoes. Shifting weather patterns have created ideal breeding conditions for mosquitoes across the country. Mosquitoes transmit heartworm disease which can be deadly to pets.

Heartworm isn’t the only parasite pet owners will need to be watchful for. CAPC also predicts the spread of Lyme disease into non-endemic areas including the Dakotas, Iowa, Missouri, Southern Illinois, Ohio, Kentucky, Tennessee and North Carolina.

“Our annual forecasts provide important information to help veterinarians and pet owners understand parasites are a true risk to both pets and people,” said Dr. Dwight Bowman, CAPC Board Member and Professor of Parasitology at Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. “This year, there are significant shifts in prevalence, making our maps a critical educational tool for veterinary hospitals, and allow veterinarians and pet owners to see that parasites are ever changing and widespread, sometimes surprisingly so.”

The forecasts support CAPC’s recommendation for annual testing and having pets on preventative year round. For 2017, CAPC predicts the following risk areas for parasite-related diseases:

• Infection with heartworm, which causes a potentially fatal disease and is transmitted by mosquitoes, is expected to be above average nationwide. The only area of the country expected to see below normal heartworm activity is in Western Texas from Amarillo to Laredo. The forecast also predicts the hyper-endemic prevalence seen in the lower Mississippi River region will be even more active than normal. Veterinarians in the Rockies and westward, where heartworm is traditionally not seen, may see a problematic rise in heartworm infections among their patients.

• Lyme disease is a high threat again this year. Ticks that transmit the agent of Lyme disease have expanded their range from New York to Western Wisconsin. Western Pennsylvania, especially in Pittsburgh is forecasted to be even more problematic this year. There is good news for the Atlantic Seaboard (I-95 Corridor) from Washington, DC to Boston, where this area is forecasted to get some relief this year, but only slightly.

• Transmission of the agents of anaplasmosis continues to be a problem in Northern California and Southern Oregon. The state of New York and Western Pennsylvania are also forecasted to have an active year. Both Wisconsin and Minnesota, which are traditional hotspots will have below normal prevalence this year.

• Ehrlichiosis is geographically a challenge. The disease can be nonexistent to rampant within 200 miles. Eastern Oklahoma, Ohio River Valley, Southern Virginia and Northern North Carolina are forecasted to see a very active year. The Great Plains region is forecasted to have a below normal prevalence.

CAPC offers prevalence data that localizes reported parasitic disease activity at the county level for veterinarians to use in their discussions about annual testing and year-round protection. This information is available for free at the CAPC website www.petsandparasites.org. Pet owners can use these maps as a reminder of the importance of year-round protection.

The Parasite Forecasts represent the collective expert opinion of academic parasitologists who engage in ongoing research and data interpretation to better understand and monitor vector-borne disease agent transmission and changing life cycles of parasites. The annual CAPC Parasite Forecasts are based on many factors including temperature, precipitation and population density.

The Companion Animal Parasite Council (www.capcvet.org) is an independent not-for-profit foundation comprised of parasitologists, veterinarians, medical, public health and other professionals that provides information for the optimal control of internal and external parasites that threaten the health of pets and people. Formed in 2002, the CAPC works to help veterinary professionals and pet owners develop the best practices in parasite management that protect pets from parasitic infections and reduce the risk of zoonotic parasite transmission.
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SALEM, ORE. (April 26, 2016) —The Companion Animal Parasite Council (CAPC), the leading source on parasitic diseases that threaten the health of pets and people and the CATalyst Council, a national initiative comprised of animal health and welfare organizations working on behalf of cats, have announced their mutual endorsement of both organizations to protect the health and well-being of cats everywhere.

The mutual endorsement was voted on by the CAPC Board of Directors and the CATalyst Council during their respective board meetings in March. With this move, both organizations are working towards the same goal – to educate pet owners on how to protect more dogs and cats through preventive care. The endorsement will include logo support on the respective websites.

“We are very pleased to see this alignment between two industry partners,” says Dr. Christopher Carpenter, Executive Director of CAPC. “For CAPC to continue to focus on the importance of having every pet tested and protected, we need organizations like Catalyst Council to help us reach those indoor cat owners who don’t think their pets are at risk.”

“Our mutual endorsement enables us to further focus CATalyst Council’s vision for a cat-caring society,” says Executive Director Dr. Jane Brunt. “By connecting with organizations like CAPC which is focused on preventive care, we are able to further advance the health, welfare and most importantly the value of companion cats.”

About Companion Animal Parasite Council
The Companion Animal Parasite Council (www.capcvet.org) is an independent not-for-profit foundation comprised of parasitologists, veterinarians, medical, public health and other professionals that provides information for the optimal control of internal and external parasites that threaten the health of pets and people. Formed in 2002, the CAPC works to help veterinary professionals and pet owners develop the best practices in parasite management that protect pets from parasitic infections and reduce the risk of zoonotic parasite transmission.

About CATalyst Council
The CATalyst Council is a national organization which includes a wide variety of animal health and welfare organizations as well as corporate members of the animal health industry that are working together to improve the health and welfare of America’s favorite pet.  It was founded in response to troubling statistics released by the American Veterinary Medical Association that indicate an increase in our nation’s pet cat population coupled with a decline in veterinary care for those cats.  More information about the CATalyst Council is available at www.catalystcouncil.org.