The zoonotic potential of dogs in Aboriginal communities in Central Australia

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dc.contributor.authorGaskin, S.
dc.contributor.authorBentham, R.
dc.contributor.authorCromar, N.
dc.contributor.authorFallowfield, H.
dc.date.issued2007
dc.description.abstractThis article reviews the established zoonoses from dogs, and identifies the potential burden of speculative zoonoses of canine origin in Aboriginal communities in Central Australia. A variety of organisms such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites including protozoa, ectoparasites and helminths (worms) have possible zoonotic capability; these organisms are discussed. Observational research was conducted in seven Aboriginal Town Camps of Alice Springs to describe the human and dog interactions and behaviours, and risk factors for transmission. Information was also gathered on the cultural significance of dogs to Aboriginal people in the community under observation. The relationship between Aboriginal people and their dogs appears to be not only one of companionship, but involves other more complex cultural factors. The contribution dogs make to infections and infestations of Aboriginal people in communities throughout Australia remains unclear. Education and dog health programs have an important role in reducing the risk of canine-related human morbidity in Aboriginal communities.
dc.description.statementofresponsibilitySharyn Gaskin, Richard Bentham, Nancy Cromar and Howard Fallowfield
dc.identifier.citationEnvironmental Health, 2007; 7(4):36-45
dc.identifier.issn1444-5212
dc.identifier.issn1832-3367
dc.identifier.orcidGaskin, S. [0000-0002-1507-6425]
dc.identifier.urihttp://hdl.handle.net/2440/109383
dc.language.isoen
dc.publisherAustralian Institute of Environmental Health
dc.rightsEnvironmental Health © 2007
dc.source.urihttp://search.informit.com.au/documentSummary;dn=997869549509147;res=IELHEA
dc.subjectDogs, zoonosis, Aboriginal health, Indigenous Australians
dc.titleThe zoonotic potential of dogs in Aboriginal communities in Central Australia
dc.typeJournal article
pubs.publication-statusPublished

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