Serological survey for heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis) in dogs in Washington.
The serologic prevalence of Dirofilaria immitis infection in 601 dogs in Washington was investigated in 1989-1990. Blood samples for serum were obtained from dogs approximately 2 yr of age or older in humane society shelters (n = 392) or veterinary clinics (n = 209). Serum samples were tested for heartworm infection using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay antigen test. Three (0.5%) dogs were positive for D. immitis infection, all of which were born and lived several years in states other than Washington. Heartworms have not been detected during the last 9 yr in the 1,203 dogs examined at the Washington Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory, Pullman, Washington. Consequently, the likelihood of indigenous heartworm infections in dogs in Washington remains low at this time.
Foreyt
W J
WJ
Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, Washington State University, Pullman 99164.
Lagerquist
J E
JE
D000818:Animals; D000909:Antibodies, Helminth / Q000097:blood*; D004183:Dirofilaria immitis / Q000276:immunology*; D004184:Dirofilariasis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000662:veterinary*; D004283:Dog Diseases / Q000453:epidemiology*; D004285:Dogs; D004797:Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay; D005260:Female; D008297:Male; D015995:Prevalence; D014861:Washington / Q000453:epidemiology
D000909:Antibodies, Helminth