A systematic review and meta-analysis on prevalence of gastrointestinal helminthic infections in rodents of Iran: An emphasis on zoonotic aspects

Rodents are the largest group of mammals that adapt to different ecosystems and may act as the potential reservoirs of significant pathogens including gastrointestinal (GI) helminths. Rodentborne parasitic pathogens have been and remain a great concern for animal and human health. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is thus to clarify and better understand the pooled prevalence of GI helminthic infections and the associated risk factors in rodents in Iran. Multiple databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, SID, Magiran and Irandoc) were searched for relevant literature published up to March 2022. A random-effects meta-analysis model was applied to estimate the pooled prevalence with 95 % confidence interval. Moreover, heterogeneity among studies was evaluated using the Cochran's Q test and the I2-statistic. Out of the 5438 publications searched, 28 articles (30 datasets) were ultimately eligible for inclusion in the study. Thus, 3649 captured rodents belonging to 6 families, 20 genera, and 35 species were examined for GI helminths in Iran. Then, 54 helminth species were identified in the present research, including 33 nematodes, 16 cestodes, 4 trematods, and 1 acanthocephalan. The prevalence rate of GI parasitic infections was 56 % (95 % CI: 50-63 %). Hymenolepis diminuta, Syphacia obvelata and Rodentolepis nana were the most common helminthic infections (13 %, 9 %, and 8 %, respectively). Moreover, 11 potential zoonotic helminths were found. There was no significant difference in pooled prevalence between male and female rodents (P = 0.40). Considering geographical areas, northern and eastern provinces had the highest prevalence of GI helminthic infections among rodents. The prevalence of GI worms in Iranian rodents was as high as 56 % with 11 zoonotic helminths. Therefore, it is suggested to observe the health of the environment, destroy the biological nests of rodents, avoid half-finished constructions, repair and improve streams and sidewalks, organize and collect garbage, and carry out biological and chemical control to handle the population of rodents. Increasing the awareness of local people about the harmful effects of rodents and the ways of transmission and prevention of rodent -borne intestinal worms transmitted to humans should be prioritized in health decisions.