Molecular survey of taeniid cestodes with special emphasis on Echinococcus species in free-roaming dogs and wild carnivores in Armenia.

Echinococcosis, caused by cestodes of the genus Echinococcus, poses significant public health and veterinary concerns globally. In Armenia, cystic echinococcosis (CE) is well-documented in livestock and humans, while alveolar echinococcosis (AE) has long been considered non-endemic. However, a recent retrospective study identified human AE cases, suggesting an underestimation of the parasite's presence. To address knowledge gaps, a pilot survey was conducted to identify Echinococcus species and other taeniids in free-roaming dogs and wild carnivores in Armenia. Fecal samples (n = 112) were opportunistically collected from eight wild carnivore species and stray dogs across six Armenian provinces between 2017 and 2018. Samples were analysed for taeniid eggs using flotation and molecular techniques. Echinococcus multilocularis was identified in a free-roaming dog, marking the first confirmed detection of the parasite in a definitive host in Armenia. Additionally, E. canadensis G6/7 and E. ortleppi were detected in a wolf, while E. canadensis G6/7, Taenia hydatigena, and T. laticollis were found in a lynx. These findings indicate the involvement of both domestic and wild carnivores in the transmission cycles of Echinococcus species and suggest the presents of a potential sylvatic cycle involving E. canadensis G6/7 and E. ortleppi. The presence of E. multilocularis in a dog underscores the risk of human infection, necessitating further epidemiological studies. This study provides initial insights into the epidemiology of Echinococcus in Armenia and highlights the need for continued surveillance to assess public health risks.