The article analyzes the features of the epidemic season of 2025 in the Kursk region in comparison with long-term data. It was found that an abnormally warm spring, elevated summer temperatures and mild winter months caused significant shifts in the phenology and abundance of ticks. For the first time, single specimens of Haemaphysalis punctata have been recorded in the Kursk region, which may indicate the introduction of the species with migrating birds. The incidence of ixodic tick-borne borreliosis and the incidence of bites was higher than the average annual values of previous years. The volume of acaricide treatments in 2025 remained at a high level with the expansion of treatment areas compared to previous years. The data obtained confirm the crucial role of climatic anomalies in the transformation of population and epidemic dynamics.
This article substantiates a differentiated approach to the management of children with detectable commensal protists (Blastocystis spp., Dientamoeba fragilis, Entamoeba coli, Endolimax nana), based on a retrospective analysis of 325 outpatient records of patients aged 1–17 years. The relevance of the study stems from the lack of standardised diagnostic algorithms, which leads either to unwarranted antiparasitic therapy in asymptomatic carriers or to a watchful-waiting approach in symptomatic individuals.Blastocystis spp. was identified in 54.8% of cases, with mixed infections observed in 31.4% (more frequently in girls, with age peaks at 7–10 and 15–17 years). Gastrointestinal complaints were reported in 76.9% (abdominal pain predominantly associated with Blastocystis spp., and dyspepsia and perianal pruritus with D. fragilis), allergic manifestations in 43.7%, and neurological symptoms in 28.9%. Eosinophilia >8% was recorded in 37.2% (most commonly in D. fragilis – 49.3% – and in mixed infections – 58.8%), dysbiosis in 68.3%, and chronic comorbidities in 71.4%. Prior unjustified therapy (38.5%) proved ineffective in 91.4% of cases, was accompanied by progression of dysbiosis in 71.6%, and by recurrence in 73.8%.A five-criteria algorithm is proposed, encompassing: presence of symptoms, eosinophil count, pathogen species, status of the intestinal microbiota, and concomitant diseases. It is concluded that antiparasitic agents are indicated not merely on the basis of protist detection, but rather when clinical symptoms, eosinophilia, and microbiota disturbances coexist. Correction of dysbiosis and management of underlying pathology are mandatory in all clinically significant cases.
This paper presents the results of a helminthological examination of 238 Saanen and Russian White goats of various ages kept on 16 farms in nine urban districts of the Moscow region. The study revealed that helminthiasis was detected in 127 animals, indicating an infestation prevalence of 53.3%. In goats, cestodiasis caused by Moniezia expansa (Rudolphi, 1810) and nematodiasis caused by Haemonchus contortus (Rudolphi, 1810, Cobb, 1898) and Strongyloides papillosus (Wedl, 1856) were diagnosed.
Materials and methods. Data from statistical reporting on trichinosis incidence in Primorsky Krai for the period from 1993 to 2024, results of an epidemiological survey of 592 cases. Data on cases of self-infection with trichinosis using V.A. Britov's "remedy". Clinical observations of the treatment of a patient with self-infection with trichinosis. Research results. Three periods with different patterns were identified in the long-term dynamics of trichinosis incidence. The first period from 1993 to 2003 was of high incidence. The second period from 2003 to 2009 was of an intensive decrease in incidence. The third period from 2009 to 2024 was of a consistently low incidence. High incidence was determined not only by the consumption of wild animal meat, but also by artificial invasions. Prevention of natural types of the epidemic process and counteraction to the use of V.A. Britov led to a consistently low incidence rate. However, cases of self-infection with a live culture of trichinella for the purpose of curing chronic diseases continue to be registered. Conclusion. Among officially registered cases of trichinosis, self-infection is probably much more common than has been established. Clinical observation indicates a real danger of treating diseases with V.A. Britov's "vaccine".
Mammals and birds are the primary hosts for numerous species of bloodsucking flies (Diptera: Hippoboscidae). These ectoparasites are involved in the circulation of a wide range of pathogens, including bacteria (Borrelia, Bartonella, Rickettsia, Anaplasma, Ehrlichia), protozoa (Trypanosoma, Theileria, Piroplasmida, Haemosporida), and viruses (in particular, West Nile virus). Hippoboscids are obligate ectoparasites, and prolonged exposure to host pathogens has evolved highly effective "natural antibiotics"— antimicrobial peptides (AMPs)—in their bodies. This article summarizes current information on pathogens associated with hippoboscids and substantiates the need for further study of bioecological aspects, including the species composition, distribution, and abundance of bloodsuckers. Laboratory monitoring of this group of insects is important for understanding the mechanisms of preservation and spread of natural focal infections that are dangerous to humans and animals. Attention is also paid to the antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) of insects and their activity against antibiotic-resistant strains of microorganisms.
