Widespread benzimidazole resistance in Australian hookworm Ancylostoma caninum
The canine hookworm (Ancylostoma caninum) infects dogs' small intestines and can cause zoonotic disease. In the USA, it shows resistance to multiple anthelmintics. We conducted a molecular survey of benzimidazole resistance in A. caninum from Australian and New Zealand veterinary centers. Using ITS-2 rDNA sequencing, we identified hookworm species and evaluated the F167Y and Q134H beta-tubulin mutations. These mutations were widespread in A. caninum in Eastern Australia. A. caninum was found in 90% of samples, with Uncinaria stenocephala in 11%. Both mutations were present, with prevalences of 49% and 67%, respectively. Egg hatch assays confirmed resistance.