Leishmania infantum and other zoonotic pathogens associated with captive lemurs (Lemur catta) in southern Italy

Safari-style zoological collections, particularly walk-in enclosures, offer visitors the unique experience of a close interaction with wildlife. However, these interactions can increase the risk of exposure to zoonotic infectious agents. In this study, we assessed the occurrence of zoonotic pathogens in ring-tailed lemurs (Lemur catta), as well as the presence of Leishmania spp. in phlebotomine sand flies collected in the same zoological park (Fasano, southern Italy). Blood (n = 30), feces (n = 29), and sand flies were collected and analyzed using molecular and serological techniques. In addition, copro-parasitological analysis was performed on fecal samples. Two lemurs tested seropositive for L. infantum using SNAP® Leish 4Dx® (n = 2/30 [6.67 %; 95 % CI: 1.85–21.34]), with one also confirmed positive by qPCR. Sand flies were morphologically identified as Phlebotomus perniciosus (n = 71) and Sergentomyia minuta (n = 1), with one P. perniciosus female positive for L. infantum by qPCR. Fecal samples scored positive at molecular analysis for Giardia duodenalis (assemblage B, sub-assemblage BIV) (n = 13/29 [44.83 %; 95 % CI: 27.63–63.09]; n = 2/29 [6.90 %; 95 % CI: 1.91–22.57]), respectively), Blastocystis sp. (subtype 8) (n = 2/29 [6.90 %; 95 % CI: 1.91–22.57]), and Entamoeba coli (n = 8/29 [27.59 %; 95 % CI: 14.59–45.96]). The detection of L. infantum in lemurs and P. perniciosus suggests that in areas where L. infantum is endemic this animal species may be infected, also demonstrating that SNAP® Leish 4Dx® is effective for screening L. infantum in zoological settings. The identification of G. duodenalis (assemblage BIV), and Blastocystis sp. (ST8) raises concerns about contamination in enclosures, water, and food sources, overall highlighting the importance of sanitary protocols to avoid the risk of infection among animals, zookeepers and visitors.