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Cited by 70Parasitic Diseases Research and TreatmentHelminth infection and controlResearch on Leishmaniasis Studies

What has happened to heartworm disease in Europe in the last 10 years?

Open access
Morchón, Rodrigo, Montoya-Alonso, José Alberto, Rodríguez-Escolar, Iván, Carretón, Elena·2022·Pathogens
DOI 10.3390/pathogens11091042PMC PMC9503846
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Abstract

Heartworm disease caused by Dirofilaria immitis is a vector-borne disease that affects canids and felids, both domestic and wild, throughout the world. It is a chronic disease which causes vascular damage in pulmonary arteries, and in advanced stages, the presence of pulmonary hypertension and right-sided congestive heart failure can be evidenced. Moreover, pulmonary thromboembolism is caused by the death of the worms, which can be lethal for the infected animal. Furthermore, it is the causative agent of human pulmonary dirofilariosis, being a zoonotic disease. The aim of this review was to update the current epidemiological situation of heartworm in Europe in dogs, cats, wild animals, and vectors insects, and to analyse the factors that may have contributed to the continuous spread of the disease in the last decade (2012–2021). In Europe, the disease has extended to eastern countries, being currently endemic in countries where previously only isolated or imported cases were reported. Furthermore, its prevalence has continued to increase in southern countries, traditionally endemic. This distribution trends and changes are influenced by several factors which are discussed in this review, such as the climate changes, presence of vectors in new areas, the appearance of new competent vector species in the continent, increased movement of pets that travelled to or originated from endemic countries, the urbanisation of rural areas leading to the formation of so-called “heat islands”, or the creation of extensive areas of irrigated crops. The continuous expansion of D. immitis must be monitored, and measures adapted to the situation of each country must be carried out for adequate control.

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Written from the paper’s full text.

TL;DR

This review updates the epidemiology of heartworm disease (*Dirofilaria immitis*) in Europe during 2012–2021 across dogs, cats, wild carnivores, and mosquito vectors. It reports continued spread into eastern and north-eastern Europe, increasing prevalence in traditionally endemic southern countries, and links these changes to climate change, new competent vectors, pet movement, urbanisation/heat islands, and irrigated crops.

Key findings

  • Canine heartworm continued to spread to eastern and north-eastern Europe, with new endemic countries, while prevalence increased in southern Europe except where control measures reduced it. Reported examples include Portugal: general 3.6%, south Algarve 5.1%, coastal Algarve 9.4%, central coastal 15.1%, central 8.8–27.3%; Spain: nationwide 6.25–6.47%, Canary Islands 11.58%, Balearic Islands 10.87%, Tenerife 17.32%; Italy: southern prevalence 0.2–44.2%, Linosa/Lampedusa 58.9%; France: central 29.41–35.2%, Corsica 21.3%; Romania: Galati 42.2%; Bulgaria: 4.8–34.7%; Hungary: Szeged 51%.
  • Feline heartworm reports increased, though studies remain fewer than in dogs. In Spain, a nationwide study reported 9.4% seroprevalence and 0.5% antigen prevalence, with Canary Islands 19.2% and Balearic Islands 16%; Portugal reported 15% seroprevalence in central Portugal and 3.5% on Madeira; Italy reported 17.6% in Linosa; Greece reported 3% in the north. First feline reports were also published in Germany, Austria, Bulgaria, and Romania.
  • In wild carnivores, Serbia reported *D. immitis* in golden jackals (7.32% and 3.1%), red foxes (1.55% and 5.3%), wolves (1.43%), and wild cats (7.69%); Hungary reported 3.7% in red foxes and 7.4% in golden jackals; Portugal reported 43.8% in pinnipeds by real-time PCR; Russia reported 23.4% global prevalence in Krasnodar Krai; Italy reported 13.6% and 1.42% in wolves; Bulgaria reported 3–44.4% in red foxes and 4.4–58.7% in golden jackals.
  • The number of competent mosquito vectors and countries detecting them increased. Larval development is temperature-dependent: 8–10 days at 28–30 °C, 11–12 days at 24 °C, 16–20 days at 22 °C, and stops below 14 °C; new vector *Ae. koreicus* was detected in north-eastern Italy and the Swiss–Italian border region.

Methods

  • Narrative review and retrospective analysis of published epidemiological studies from 2012–2021 on *D. immitis* in European dogs, cats, wild animals, and vector insects, plus factors contributing to spread and GIS/risk studies.
  • Data sources were published epidemiological and sero-epidemiological studies, questionnaire surveys, vector surveys, and geospatial/climate models; no new primary sampling or field study is described.
  • Main analysis was a qualitative synthesis by host group, country, and vector, reporting prevalence ranges and distribution trends; no systematic search protocol, meta-analysis, or quantitative pooling is stated.

Limitations

  • The paper states that feline heartworm is less studied due to diagnostic difficulty and lower access to cats compared with dogs, and that studies on wild animals remain scarce.
  • The paper states that vector studies are absent in some countries and few in number, so reported changes in vector species may partly reflect lack of studies; more studies are needed to know whether environmental conditions are influencing these changes.
  • Evident from the text: this is a narrative review without a stated systematic search, quality appraisal, or meta-analysis, and it relies on heterogeneous published prevalence estimates and diagnostic methods across countries and regions.

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Integrity signals

Registry

Crossref · 10.3390/pathogens11091042

Cites

169 of 169 references verified0 citation errors · 0 not checkable

Statistics

Nothing to recompute.

Claims the paper makes

0 of 204 cited sources checked · 0 supported · 0 flagged

  • Interpretationnone given

    In non-endemic European countries, isolated cases or cases imported from endemic areas have continued to appear.

    “In other non-endemic countries, isolated cases or cases imported from endemic areas have continued to appear (Figure 1).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Premisecitation

    A canine heartworm prevalence of 9.4% was found in the coastal regions of the Algarve, Portugal.

    “Furthermore, a prevalence of 9.4% was found in the coastal regions of the Algarve [11].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [11] Maia, 2015, Serological investigation of Leishmania infantum, Dirofilaria immitis and Angiostrongylus vasorum in dogs from southern Portugal, Parasit. Vectors source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Premisecitation

    According to Vieira et al., canine heartworm prevalence in the centre and northeast of Portugal was 2.1%.

    “According to Vieira et al. [13], the prevalence in the centre and northeast of the country was 2.1%.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [13] Vieira, 2014, Prevalence of canine heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis) disease in dogs of central Portugal, Parasite source

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  • Premisecitation

    In Spain, two nationwide studies reported a general canine heartworm prevalence of 6.25-6.47%.

    “Recently, two nationwide studies have recently been carried out, reporting a general prevalence of 6.25–6.47% in the country [16,17].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [16] Matos, 2020, Current Distribution of Selected Vector-Borne Diseases in Dogs in Spain, Front. Vet. Sci. source

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    • cites [17] Montoya-Alonso, J.A., Morchón, R., García-Rodríguez, S.N., Falcón-Cordón, Y., Costa-Rodríguez, N., Matos, J.I., Rodríguez Escolar, I., and Carretón, E. (2022). Expansion of Canine Heartworm in Spain. Animals, 12. source

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  • Interpretationnone given

    In the last 10 years, canine heartworm disease has continued to spread to eastern and north-eastern European countries, some of which are considered new endemic countries.

    “In the last 10 years, canine heartworm disease has continued to spread to eastern and north-eastern European countries, some of which are considered as new endemic countries.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim
  • May combine two claims. 81
  • Classified as probably not a substantial claim. 2
  • The quote only partly states this claim. 2

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Spain and Portugal have traditionally been considered endemic countries for heartworm, although not all regions of those countries have been studied.

    “Spain and Portugal have traditionally been considered endemic countries, although not all regions of those countries have been studied [4].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [4] Genchi, 2020, The prevalence of Dirofilaria immitis and D. repens in the Old World, Vet. Parasitol. source

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  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    In endemic areas such as Europe, feline heartworm prevalence is estimated to be between 5 and 20% of canine prevalence in the same region.

    “For this reason, it is estimated that in endemic areas, such as Europe, the feline prevalence is between 5 and 20% of the canine prevalence in that same region [4].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [4] Genchi, 2020, The prevalence of Dirofilaria immitis and D. repens in the Old World, Vet. Parasitol. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    In Portugal, the prevalence of canine heartworm reported in the past has remained at similar percentages and has even increased in some regions.

    “In Portugal, the prevalence reported in the past has remained at similar percentages and has even increased in some regions.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 3 sources checked
    • cites [10] Cardoso, 2012, Prevalence of Dirofilaria immitis, Ehrlichia canis, Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato, Anaplasma spp. and Leishmania infantum in apparently healthy and CVBD-suspect dogs in Portugal—A national serological study, Parasit. Vectors source

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    • cites [11] Maia, 2015, Serological investigation of Leishmania infantum, Dirofilaria immitis and Angiostrongylus vasorum in dogs from southern Portugal, Parasit. Vectors source

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    • cites [12] Alho, 2014, Prevalence and seasonal variations of canine dirofilariosis in Portugal, Vet. Parasitol. source

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  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationnone given

    In Europe, heartworm disease has extended to eastern countries and is currently endemic in countries where previously only isolated or imported cases were reported.

    “In Europe, the disease has extended to eastern countries, being currently endemic in countries where previously only isolated or imported cases were reported.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    In Spain, no autonomous community analysed had canine heartworm prevalence exceeding 10%, except the Canary Islands (11.58%) and Balearic Islands (10.87%), with 5-10% in almost all regions and 1-5% in the northern communities.

    “In none of the autonomous communities analysed did the prevalence exceed 10%, except the Canary Islands (11.58%) and Balearic Islands (10.87%), being 5–10% in almost all regions and 1–5% in the northern communities.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [16] Matos, 2020, Current Distribution of Selected Vector-Borne Diseases in Dogs in Spain, Front. Vet. Sci. source

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    • cites [17] Montoya-Alonso, J.A., Morchón, R., García-Rodríguez, S.N., Falcón-Cordón, Y., Costa-Rodríguez, N., Matos, J.I., Rodríguez Escolar, I., and Carretón, E. (2022). Expansion of Canine Heartworm in Spain. Animals, 12. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    From 2011, heartworm disease was considered an endemic reality in eastern and central Europe, having spread from southern countries in a short period.

    “From 2011, heartworm disease was considered an endemic reality in eastern and central Europe, where it had spread from southern countries in a short period of time [1,9].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [1] Mellado, 2012, Human and animal dirofilariasis: The emergence of a zoonotic mosaic, Clin. Microbiol. Rev. source

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    • cites [9] Otranto, 2013, Vector-borne helminths of dogs and humans in Europe, Parasit. Vectors source

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  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationnone given

    In traditionally endemic southern European countries, canine heartworm prevalence has continued to increase, except in some territories where control measures achieved a decrease.

    “Furthermore, its prevalence has continued to increase in southern countries, traditionally endemic.”
    • Also stated in: § 2.1. Canine Heartworm · plain
      “Moreover, in the traditionally endemic countries of southern Europe, prevalence in dogs has continued to increase, except for some territories where the control measures adopted have achieved a decrease in prevalence.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Cardoso et al. reported a general canine heartworm prevalence of 3.6% in Portugal, with regional prevalences of 2.9% in the north, 0.9% in the centre, 2.4% in Lisbon, and 5.1% in the south (Algarve).

    “Cardoso et al. [10] carried out an extensive study analysing samples from all over the country and reported a general prevalence of 3.6%, obtaining prevalence of 2.9% in the north, 0.9% in the centre, 2.4% in the capital of Lisbon, and 5.1% in the south (Algarve).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [10] Cardoso, 2012, Prevalence of Dirofilaria immitis, Ehrlichia canis, Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato, Anaplasma spp. and Leishmania infantum in apparently healthy and CVBD-suspect dogs in Portugal—A national serological study, Parasit. Vectors source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims. The quote only partly states this claim.

    Interpretationnone given

    The distribution trends and changes of heartworm in Europe are influenced by factors including climate change, presence of vectors in new areas, appearance of new competent vector species, increased movement of pets, urbanisation of rural areas, and creation of irrigated crops.

    “This distribution trends and changes are influenced by several factors which are discussed in this review, such as the climate changes, presence of vectors in new areas, the appearance of new competent vector species in the continent, increased movement of pets that travelled to or originated from endemic countries, the urbanisation of rural areas leading to the formation of so-called “heat”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim
    • Rests on an assumption: Europe is facing new climatic conditions caused by climate change.
    • Rests on an assumption: The presence of new competent vectors increases the time of exposure to the parasite and widens the risk zones.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    In central coastal regions of Portugal, canine heartworm prevalence has been reported at 15.1%, while in the central region it ranged from 8.8 to 27.3%.

    “Other studies have reported prevalence of 15.1% in the central coastal regions of Portugal, while in the central region, prevalence ranged from 8.8 to 27.3% [12,13,14]”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 3 sources checked
    • cites [12] Alho, 2014, Prevalence and seasonal variations of canine dirofilariosis in Portugal, Vet. Parasitol. source

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    • cites [13] Vieira, 2014, Prevalence of canine heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis) disease in dogs of central Portugal, Parasite source

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    • cites [14] Landum, 2014, Detection of Wolbachia in Dirofilaria infected dogs in Portugal, Vet. Parasitol. source

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  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    In central Italy (Latium, Tuscany, Umbria), canine heartworm prevalence ranged from 0.2 to 6.9%, while in southern Italy it ranged between 0.2 and 44.2%.

    “In Latium, Tuscany, and Umbria (central Italy), prevalence ranged from 0.2 to 6.9% [29,32,33], while in southern Italy, the prevalence ranged between 0.2 and 44.2% [34,35,36,37].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 7 sources checked
    • cites [29] Colombo, M., Morelli, S., Simonato, G., Di Cesare, A., Veronesi, F., Frangipane di Regalbono, A., Grassi, L., Russi, I., Tiscar, P.G., and Morganti, G. (2021). Exposure to Major Vector-Borne Diseases in Dogs Subjected to Different Preventative Regimens in Endemic Areas of Italy. Pathogens, 10. source

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    • cites [32] Sauda, 2018, Leishmania infantum, Dirofilaria spp. and other endoparasite infections in kennel dogs in central Italy, Parasite source

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    • cites [33] Macchioni, 2020, Canine filarial infections in an area of Central Italy (Tuscany-Latium border) historically free from the disease, Vet. Parasitol. Reg. Stud. Rep.

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    • cites [34] Giangaspero, 2013, Evidences of increasing risk of dirofilarioses in southern Italy, Parasitol. Res. source

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    • cites [35] Del Prete, L., Maurelli, M.P., Pennacchio, S., Bosco, A., Musella, V., Ciuca, L., Cringoli, G., and Rinaldi, L. (2015). Dirofilaria immitis and Angiostrongylus vasorum: The contemporaneous detection in kennels. BMC Vet. Res., 11. source

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    • cites [36] Petruccelli, A., Ferrara, G., Iovane, G., Schettini, R., Ciarcia, R., Caputo, V., Pompameo, M., Pagnini, U., and Montagnaro, S. (2020). Seroprevalence of Ehrlichia spp.; Anaplasma spp.; Borreliaburgdorferi sensu lato, and Dirofilaria immitis in Stray Dogs, from 2016 to 2019, in Southern Italy. Animals, 11. source

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    • cites [37] Morelli, S., Gori, F., Colombo, M., Traversa, D., Sarrocco, G., Simonato, G., Nespeca, C., Di Cesare, A., Frangipane di Regalbono, A., and Veronesi, F. (2021). Simultaneous Exposure to Angiostrongylus vasorum and Vector-Borne Pathogens in Dogs from Italy. Pathogens, 10. source

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  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    In northern and centre Spain, canine heartworm prevalence was 0.18% and 7.19%, respectively.

    “Other studies carried out in northern and centre Spain have reported a prevalence of 0.18 and 7.19% for D. immitis, respectively [19,20].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [19] Roura, 2020, Serological evaluation of selected vector-borne pathogens in owned dogs from northern Spain based on a multicenter study using a commercial test, Parasit. Vectors source

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    • cites [20] 2021, Serological Survey of Canine Vector-Borne Infections in North-Center Spain, Front. Vet. Sci. source

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  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    In Giglio and Sardinia, canine heartworm prevalence was 2.4% and 8.9%, respectively, and on Linosa and Lampedusa islands D. immitis was detected at 58.9%.

    “Finally, the prevalence in Giglio and Sardinia were 2.4 and 8.9%, respectively [29,39]. In addition, on the Linosa and Lampedusa islands, D. immitis was detected at 58.9% [40].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 3 sources checked
    • cites [29] Colombo, M., Morelli, S., Simonato, G., Di Cesare, A., Veronesi, F., Frangipane di Regalbono, A., Grassi, L., Russi, I., Tiscar, P.G., and Morganti, G. (2021). Exposure to Major Vector-Borne Diseases in Dogs Subjected to Different Preventative Regimens in Endemic Areas of Italy. Pathogens, 10. source

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    • cites [39] Pipia, 2014, New insights onto cardiopulmonary nematodes of dogs in Sardinia, Italy, Parasitol. Res. source

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    • cites [40] Brianti, 2021, Dirofilaria immitis infection in the Pelagie archipelago: The southernmost hyperendemic focus in Europe, Transbound Emerg. Dis. source

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  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Heartworm is reported for the first time in Asturias, Cantabria, Navarra, and Basque Country, demonstrating continuous spread of infection in Spain.

    “Moreover, heartworm is reported for the first time in Asturias, Cantabria, Navarra, and Basque Country, demonstrating the continuous spread of the infection in the whole country.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [16] Matos, 2020, Current Distribution of Selected Vector-Borne Diseases in Dogs in Spain, Front. Vet. Sci. source

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    • cites [17] Montoya-Alonso, J.A., Morchón, R., García-Rodríguez, S.N., Falcón-Cordón, Y., Costa-Rodríguez, N., Matos, J.I., Rodríguez Escolar, I., and Carretón, E. (2022). Expansion of Canine Heartworm in Spain. Animals, 12. source

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  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    In the province of Barcelona, average canine heartworm prevalence was 2.4%, higher in Baix Llobregat (11.1 to 33.3%).

    “In the province of Barcelona, the average prevalence was 2.4%, being higher in municipalities belonging to the Baix Llobregat area, (11.1 to 33.3%), which has the highest risk of infection in the whole province [21].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [21] 2015, Prevalence of Dirofilaria immitis in dogs from Barcelona: Validation of a geospatial prediction model, Vet. Parasitol. source

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    Premisecitation

    In Madrid, canine heartworm prevalence was 3%, and in the province of Salamanca, overall prevalence was 7.3%, with higher prevalence in zones with irrigated crops.

    “The canine population in Madrid presented a prevalence of 3%, [22] and in the province of Salamanca, the overall percentage was 7.3% [20], although in zones with irrigated crops, the prevalence was higher.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [22] 2017, Prevalence of heartworm in dogs and cats of Madrid, Spain, Parasit. Vectors source

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    • cites [20] 2021, Serological Survey of Canine Vector-Borne Infections in North-Center Spain, Front. Vet. Sci. source

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    Premisecitation

    In Italy, epidemiological reports previously indicated that canine heartworm prevalence in the north was decreasing while in the centre and south it was increasing, with autochthonous cases appearing in previously non-endemic areas.

    “Previously, epidemiological reports indicated that prevalence in the north of the country was decreasing while in the centre and south of the country, it was increasing, and even regions with autochthonous cases were appearing in previously non-endemic areas [2,9,25,26,27,28].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 3 sources checked
    • cites [2] 2012, Heartworm Disease (Dirofilaria immitis) and Their Vectors in Europe—New Distribution Trends, Front. Physiol.

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    • cites [9] Otranto, 2013, Vector-borne helminths of dogs and humans in Europe, Parasit. Vectors source

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    • cites [25] Piccinini, G., and Carreri, L. (2020, January April). An Epidemiologic Assessment of Canine Heartworm in Northern Italy. Proceedings of the 13th Trienial State of the Heartworm Symposium, Memphis, TN, USA.

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    Premisecitation

    In Salamanca, prevalence decreased from 29.08% to 16.7%, which could be attributed to use of microfilaricides for control of other parasitic diseases.

    “However, in the last years, the prevalence in these places has decreased from 29.08% to 16.7%, which could be attributed to the use of microfilaricides for the control of other parasitic diseases [23,24].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [23] Mellado, 2011, Prevalencia de la dirofilariosis cardiopulmonar canina, Argos

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    • cites [24] Diosdado, 2018, Current status of canine dirofilariosis in an endemic area of western Spain, J. Helminthol. source

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    Premisecitation

    In the Canary Islands, previous research has shown higher prevalence in the past, demonstrating that prevalence has gradually decreased over the years, probably due to prevention campaigns by veterinarians.

    “In the Canary Islands, previous research has shown higher prevalence in the past, demonstrating that prevalence has gradually decreased over the years, probably due to prevention campaigns carried out by”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [18] 2016, The impact of the climate on the epidemiology of Dirofilaria immitis in the pet population of the Canary Islands, Vet. Parasitol. source

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    Premisecitation

    Ceuta and Melilla were studied for the first time, with canine heartworm prevalences of 1.72% and 3.77%, respectively.

    “Finally, the cities of Ceuta and Melilla are studied for the first time (1.72 and 3.77%, respectively).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [17] Montoya-Alonso, J.A., Morchón, R., García-Rodríguez, S.N., Falcón-Cordón, Y., Costa-Rodríguez, N., Matos, J.I., Rodríguez Escolar, I., and Carretón, E. (2022). Expansion of Canine Heartworm in Spain. Animals, 12. source

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  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    In Spain, high canine heartworm prevalence was reported in Pontevedra (12.61%), Cádiz (13.68%), Ibiza (17.09%), Tenerife (17.32%), and Gran Canaria (16.03%).

    “This heterogenicity can be observed when the prevalence was analysed by provinces, reporting high prevalence in the northwest (Pontevedra, 12.61%), south (Cádiz, 13.68%), Balearic Islands (Ibiza, 17.09%), or Canary Islands (Tenerife, 17.32%; Gran Canaria, 16.03%).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [16] Matos, 2020, Current Distribution of Selected Vector-Borne Diseases in Dogs in Spain, Front. Vet. Sci. source

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    • cites [17] Montoya-Alonso, J.A., Morchón, R., García-Rodríguez, S.N., Falcón-Cordón, Y., Costa-Rodríguez, N., Matos, J.I., Rodríguez Escolar, I., and Carretón, E. (2022). Expansion of Canine Heartworm in Spain. Animals, 12. source

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    Premisecitation

    A recent Austrian study showed high presence of heartworm in shelters from five different Austrian states (prevalence 9.6%), although all infected dogs originated from Hungary.

    “Another recent study showed a high presence of heartworm in shelters from five different Austrian states (prevalence of 9.6%); although all infected dogs originated from Hungary, the authors warned about the risk of endemisation of D. immitis in Austria [50].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [50] Sonnberger, K., Fuehrer, H.P., Sonnberger, B.W., and Leschnik, M. (2021). The Incidence of Dirofilaria immitis in Shelter Dogs and Mosquitoes in Austria. Pathogens, 10. source

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    Premisecitation

    In Poland, the first native case of canine heartworm is published, while a nationwide study reports a prevalence of 0.16%.

    “In Poland, the first native case of canine heartworm in the country is published [60], while a nationwide study reports a prevalence of 0.16% in the country [61].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [60] Demiaszkiewicz, 2012, First autochthonous case of Dirofilaria immitis invasion in dog in Poland, Žycie Weterynaryjne

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    • cites [61] Schaper, 2014, Serological detection of Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato and Ehrlichia canis antibodies and Dirofilaria immitis antigen in a countrywide survey in dogs in Poland, Parasitol. Res. source

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  • May combine two claims.

    Premiseown data

    In Italy, prevalence in the north is decreasing while in the centre and south it is increasing.

    “Moreover, the results showed that prevalence in the north is decreasing, while in the centre and south of the country, it is increasing, which corroborated studies previously carried out by other authors.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [41] Benelli, 2020, Leishmania infantum and Dirofilaria immitis infections in Italy, 2009–2019: Changing distribution patterns, Parasit. Vectors source

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    Premisecitation

    Based on questionnaire answers, autochthonous cases of D. immitis infections were seen by veterinarians in the Baltic countries, whereas most cases in Nordic countries appeared to be imported.

    “Based on the answers to a questionnaire, autochthonous cases of D. immitis infections were seen by veterinarians in the Baltic countries, whereas most cases seen by veterinarians in the Nordic countries appeared to be imported [64].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [64] Jokelainen, 2017, Vector-borne parasitic infections in dogs in the Baltic and Nordic countries: A questionnaire study to veterinarians on canine babesiosis and infections with Dirofilaria immitis and Dirofilaria repens, Vet. Parasitol. source

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  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    In Corsica, canine heartworm prevalence was 21.3%, showing no changes with respect to previous studies.

    “Finally, in Corsica, the prevalence was 21.3% [45], showing no changes with respect to previous studies [46].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [45] Tahir, 2017, Molecular survey of Dirofilaria immitis and Dirofilaria repens by new real-time TaqMan® PCR assay in dogs and mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae) in Corsica (France), Vet. Parasitol. source

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    • cites [46] Pantchev, 2009, Occurrence of Dirofilaria immitis and tick-borne infections caused by Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato and Ehrlichia canis in domestic dogs in France: Results of a countrywide serologic survey, Parasitol. Res. source

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  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    A study by Mendoza-Roldan et al. between 2009-2019 showed that the number of heartworm-infected dogs significantly varied over years, gradually increasing from 0.77% in 2009 to 5.19-8.47% in 2016-2017.

    “Finally, a study conducted by Mendoza-Roldan et al. [41] between 2009–2019 showed that the number of heartworm-infected dogs significantly varied over years, gradually increasing from 0.77% in 2009 to values ranging between 5.19–8.47% in 2016–2017.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [41] Benelli, 2020, Leishmania infantum and Dirofilaria immitis infections in Italy, 2009–2019: Changing distribution patterns, Parasit. Vectors source

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  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    In Germany, an increase in the number of D. immitis infections has been observed in dogs that travelled or came from endemic countries, but also in dogs that presumably have not travelled outside the country.

    “Germany faces a similar scenario, since it has been observed an increase in the number of infections in dogs that have travelled or came from endemic countries, but also in dogs that presumably have not travelled outside the country.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 3 sources checked
    • cites [51] Vrhovec, 2017, Retrospective Analysis of Canine Vector-borne Diseases (CVBD) in Germany with Emphasis on the Endemicity and Risk Factors of Leishmaniosis, Parasitol. Res. source

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    • cites [52] Liesner, 2016, Vector-borne pathogens in dogs and red foxes from the federal state of Brandenburg, Germany, Vet. Parasitol. source

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    • cites [53] Volkmann, 2019, Retrospective analysis of vector-borne infections in dogs after travelling to endemic areas (2007–2018), Vet. Parasitol.

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  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Turkey showed a similar trend, with studies reporting canine heartworm prevalence of 1.5% in Erzurum, 0.6% in Elazig Province, and a general prevalence of 8.5% in different provinces; these studies confirm higher prevalence than those reported 10 years ago.

    “Turkey showed a similar trend, studies with prevalence of 1.5% being reported in Erzurum, north-eastern Turkey [96], 0.6% in Elazig Province [97], and a general prevalence of 8.5% in different provinces of Turkey distributed throughout the country [98]. These studies confirm higher prevalence than those reported 10 years ago [2].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 3 sources checked
    • cites [96] Angelou, 2019, Prevalence and risk factors for selected canine vector-borne diseases in Greece, Parasit. Vectors source

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    • cites [97] Guven, 2017, Vector-Borne Pathogens in Stray Dogs in Northeastern Turkey, Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis. source

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    • cites [98] Simsek, 2016, Serological and Molecular Detection of Dirofilaria Species in Stray Dogs and Investigation of Wolbachia DNA by PCR in Turkey, J. Arthropod. Borne Dis.

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  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    In Bosnia and Herzegovina, presence of D. immitis is reported for the first time, showing overall prevalence of 1.89% in Bosnia-Podriuje canton (southern country), 0.93% for owned dogs and 2.86% for stray dogs.

    “In Bosnia and Herzegovina, the presence of D. immitis is reported for the first time, showing an overall prevalence of 1.89% in the region of the Bosnia-Podriuje canton (southern country), the prevalence being 0.93% for owned dogs and 2.86% for stray dogs [73].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [73] Sinani, 2020, First serological evidence of infections with selected vector-borne pathogens in dogs in Kosovo, Parasitol. Res. source

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  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Athanasiou et al. reported average canine heartworm prevalence of 5.96% in Greece, with regional values including 6.73% in Evos, 6.68% in Serres, 6.16% in Florina, 7.3% in Ioannina, 14% in Evritania, 5% in Evia, and 3.18% in Attiki; another nationwide study reported 9.0%.

    “Athanasiou et al. [94] carried out a study in which the average prevalence was 5.96%, 6.73% being in the north (Evos), 6.68% (Serres) and 6.16% (Florina), 7.3% in the northwest (Ioannina), 14% in the centre (Evritania), 5% in the centre-east (Evia), and 3.18% (Attiki). In another nationwide study, the prevalence obtained was 9.0% [95].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [94] Diakou, 2019, Canine and feline dirofilariosis in a highly enzootic area: First report of feline dirofilariosis in Greece, Parasitol. Res. source

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    • cites [95] Athanasiou, 2019, Cross-Sectional Serosurvey and Factors Associated with Exposure of Dogs to Vector-Borne Pathogens in Greece, Vector Borne Zoonotic. Dis. source

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  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    In Romania, reported canine heartworm prevalence has been increasing in correlation with increased interest and publications, with average prevalences of 3.3 and 6.15% reported by Mircean et al. and Ionică et al., respectively.

    “In Romania, reported prevalence has been increasing in correlation with increased interest and publications on canine heartworm. Mircean et al. [74] and Ionică et al. [75] reported average prevalence of 3.3 and 6.15%, respectively.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [74] Kapo, 2022, Distribution of ticks in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Ticks Tick Borne Dis. source

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    • cites [75] Mircean, 2012, Seroprevalence and geographic distribution of Dirofilaria immitis and tick-borne infections (Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato, and Ehrlichia canis) in dogs from Romania, Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis. source

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  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    In Bulgaria, recent studies reported canine heartworm prevalence between 4.8-34.7%, higher in central, eastern, and southern regions and lower in western and south-western regions.

    “In Bulgaria, recent studies reported prevalence between 4.8–34.7%, being higher in the central, eastern, and southern regions and lower in the western and south-western regions [80,81,82].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 3 sources checked
    • cites [80] Genchi, 2016, Heat treatment of serum samples from stray dogs naturally exposed to Dirofilaria immitis and Dirofilaria repens in Romania, Vet. Parasitol. source

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    • cites [81] Iliev, 2020, Preliminary Study on the Prevalence of Endoparasite Infections and Vector-borne Diseases in Outdoor Dogs in Bulgaria, Helminthologia source

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    • cites [82] Manev, 2020, Serological survey of vector-borne pathogens in stray dogs from Sofia area, Bulgaria, Vet. Parasitol. Reg. Stud. Rep.

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  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    In the Thrace Region of Turkey, serologic and molecular assays determined D. immitis prevalence of 6.7 and 2.7%, respectively, and in different western Turkish cities an overall prevalence of 2.28% was reported.

    “In the Thrace Region of Turkey, the serologic and molecular assays determined a prevalence of D. immitis of 6.7 and 2.7%, respectively [99]. Finally, in different cities in the western country, such us İzmir, Aydin, Denizli, Mugla, and Manisa, an overall prevalence of 2.28% was reported [100].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [99] 2012, Serological screening of canine heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis) infections in Turkey, Berl. Munch. Tierarztl. Wochenschr.

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    • cites [100] Matur, 2016, Serological and molecular investigation of Ehrlichia spp. and Anaplasma spp. in ticks and blood of dogs, in the Thrace Region of Turkey, Ticks Tick Borne Dis. source

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  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    In the Republic of Kosovo, D. immitis antigens were detected in 14.8% of dogs tested, the first evidence of infected dogs in this country.

    “In the Republic of Kosovo, antigens of D. immitis were detected in 14.8% of the dogs tested [72], being the first evidence of infected dogs in this country.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [72] Otašević, S., Savić, S., and Jurhar-Pavlova, M. (2022). Molecular Survey of Dirofilaria and Leishmania Species in Dogs from Central Balkan. Animals, 12. source

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  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    In Greece, there has been an increase in the number of areas analysed in recent years, with reported canine heartworm prevalences in urban cities of Thessaloniki, Larissa, Achaia, Attica, and Heraklion of 14, 7, 5.3, 0.7, and 0%, respectively, and 0.5% on the islands of Skiathos, Tinos, Ios, and Santorini.

    “In Greece, there has been an increase in the number of areas analysed in the recent years [4]. The reported prevalence in the urban cities of Thessaloniki, Larissa, Achaia, Attica, and Heraklion were 14, 7, 5.3, 0.7, and 0%, respectively. On the islands of Skiathos, Tinos, Ios, and Santorini, the reported prevalence was 0.5%.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 3 sources checked
    • cites [4] Genchi, 2020, The prevalence of Dirofilaria immitis and D. repens in the Old World, Vet. Parasitol. source

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    • cites [92] Hamel, 2016, Parasites and vector-borne pathogens in client-owned dogs in Albania. Blood pathogens and seroprevalences of parasitic and other infectious agents, Parasitol. Res. source

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    • cites [93] Diakou, 2016, Dirofilaria infections in dogs in different areas of Greece, Parasit. Vectors source

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  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Romania and Bulgaria are endemic countries, showing increased prevalence in the last decade.

    “Romania and Bulgaria are endemic countries as well, showing increased prevalence in the last decade.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [74] Kapo, 2022, Distribution of ticks in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Ticks Tick Borne Dis. source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [75] Mircean, 2012, Seroprevalence and geographic distribution of Dirofilaria immitis and tick-borne infections (Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato, and Ehrlichia canis) in dogs from Romania, Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis. source

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  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Epidemiological studies from Serbia have shown increased canine heartworm prevalence, with ranges between 12.7 and 33.3% in the north, together with presence of some microfilaremic dogs.

    “However, epidemiological studies from Serbia have shown increased prevalence, with ranges between 12.7 and 33.3% in the north of the country, together with the presence of some microfilaremic dogs [7,68,69,70,71].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 3 sources checked
    • cites [7] Stosic, 2020, Seroepidemiological Study of Canine and Human Dirofilariasis in the Endemic Region of Northern Serbia, Front. Vet. Sci. source

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    • cites [68] Gabrielli, 2012, Canine Dirofilaria infections in two uninvestigated areas of Serbia: Epidemiological and genetic aspects, Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis. source

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    • cites [69] Gabrielli, 2017, An appraisal of canine and human cases reveals an endemic status of dirofilariosis in parts of Serbia, Mol. Cell Probes source

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  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    In Albania, recent studies demonstrated endemic status of the country and a prevalence of 11.2% in police dogs from all over the country in 2015, while research in Tirana reported prevalence of 2.2%.

    “In Albania, D. immitis was present as isolated or imported in cases in the past [2], but recent studies demonstrated the endemic status of the country and a prevalence of 11.2% in police dogs from all over the country was reported in 2015 [90], while research in Tirana reported a prevalence of 2.2% [91].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [90] Mirchev, 2016, Dirofilaria immitis infection in carnivores from Bulgaria: 2012–2013 update, Bulgarian J. Vet. Med. source

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    • cites [91] Rehbein, 2015, Police dogs from Albania as indicators of exposure risk to Toxoplasma gondii, Neospora caninum and vector-borne pathogens of zoonotic and veterinary concern, Vet. Parasitol. Reg. Stud. Rep.

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  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Serbia and Croatia are considered endemic countries, and in Croatia no increases in canine heartworm prevalence are reported, ranging from 0.46-0.6% in published studies.

    “Serbia and Croatia are considered endemic countries. In the latter, there are not reported increases in the prevalence, ranging from 0.46–0.6% in the published studies [66,67].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [66] Mrljak, 2017, Prevalence and Geographic Distribution of Vector-Borne Pathogens in Apparently Healthy Dogs in Croatia, Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis. source

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    • cites [67] Beck, 2019, Seroprevalence of vector-borne pathogens in dogs from Croatia, Parasitol. Res. source

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  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    In Spain, feline heartworm seroprevalence and prevalence were 24.4% and 3.6% in Zaragoza, 7.3% and 0.2% in Madrid, and 11.47% and 0.26% in Barcelona, respectively.

    “It is the case of Zaragoza, where the seroprevalence reported was 24.4% and the prevalence was 3.6% [118]. In Madrid, seroprevalence and prevalence were 7.3 and 0.2%, respectively [22]. In Barcelona, 11.47% of the cats were seropositive and 0.26% were positive for D. immitis antigens [3].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 3 sources checked
    • cites [118] Matos, 2022, Seroprevalence of Feline Heartworm in Spain: Completing the Epidemiological Puzzle of a Neglected Disease in the Cat, Front. Vet. Sci. source

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    • cites [22] 2017, Prevalence of heartworm in dogs and cats of Madrid, Spain, Parasit. Vectors source

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    • cites [3] Armario, 2014, First epidemiological report of feline heartworm infection in the Barcelona metropolitan area (Spain), Parasit. Vectors source

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  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    In Spain, a recent nationwide study reported overall feline seroprevalence of 9.4% (anti-D. immitis antibodies) and prevalence of 0.5% (antigens), with highest seroprevalences in the Canary Islands (19.2%), Balearic Islands (16%), and Mediterranean coast communities (9.2-11.2%).

    “In Spain, a recent nationwide study reported an overall seroprevalence of 9.4% (anti-D. immitis antibodies) and a prevalence of 0.5% (antigens) [117]. This study showed the highest seroprevalences in the Canary Islands (19.2%) and the Balearic Islands (16%), as well as the autonomous communities located on the Mediterranean coast (9.2–11.2%).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [117] Willi, B., Spiri, A.M., Meli, M.L., Grimm, F., Beatrice, L., Riond, B., Bley, T., Jordi, R., Dennler, M., and Hofmann-Lehmann, R. (2015). Clinical and molecular investigation of a canine distemper outbreak and vector-borne infections in a group of rescue dogs imported from Hungary to Switzerland. BMC Vet. Res., 11. source

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  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Some studies have reported D. immitis in cats in traditionally endemic countries such as Spain, Portugal, Italy, and Greece, while first reports of feline heartworm have been published in some new endemic countries (Germany and Austria).

    “Some studies have reported D. immitis in cats in traditionally endemic countries, such as Spain, Portugal, Italy, and Greece, while the first reports of feline heartworm have been published in some new endemic countries as well (Germany and Austria).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 3 sources checked
    • cites [117] Willi, B., Spiri, A.M., Meli, M.L., Grimm, F., Beatrice, L., Riond, B., Bley, T., Jordi, R., Dennler, M., and Hofmann-Lehmann, R. (2015). Clinical and molecular investigation of a canine distemper outbreak and vector-borne infections in a group of rescue dogs imported from Hungary to Switzerland. BMC Vet. Res., 11. source

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    • cites [129] Kohn, 2021, Retrospective evaluation of vector-borne pathogens in cats living in Germany (2012–2020), Parasit. Vectors source

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    • cites [130] Kulmer, L.M., Unterköfler, M.S., Fuehrer, H.P., Janovska, V., Pagac, M., Svoboda, M., Venco, L., and Leschnik, M. (2021). First Autochthonous Infection of a Cat with Dirofilaria immitis in Austria. Pathogens, 10. source

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  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    A previous study in the Canary Islands demonstrated hyperendemic status, showing feline seroprevalence of 18.1%, with disparity by island from 0% in El Hierro to 24.1% in Tenerife.

    “Moreover, a previous study carried out in the Canary Islands demonstrated the hyperendemic status of the islands, showing a seroprevalence of 18.1%, although a remarkable disparity was found when evaluating the results by island separately, which ranged from 0% in El Hierro to 24.1% in Tenerife [18].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [18] 2016, The impact of the climate on the epidemiology of Dirofilaria immitis in the pet population of the Canary Islands, Vet. Parasitol. source

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  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

    Premisenone given

    The number of publications in feline heartworm is still substantially lower than in dogs.

    “The number of publications in feline heartworm is still substantially lower than in dogs.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationcitation

    The presence of D. immitis is expanding throughout Spanish national territory, with infected cats reported in Ceuta and Melilla and in the north of the country, similar to canine heartworm.

    “Moreover, it is shown that the presence of this parasite is expanding throughout the national territory, also reporting infected cats in Ceuta and Melilla (Spanish autonomous cities on the north coast of Africa) and in the north of the country, similar to what has been reported for canine heartworm [117].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [117] Willi, B., Spiri, A.M., Meli, M.L., Grimm, F., Beatrice, L., Riond, B., Bley, T., Jordi, R., Dennler, M., and Hofmann-Lehmann, R. (2015). Clinical and molecular investigation of a canine distemper outbreak and vector-borne infections in a group of rescue dogs imported from Hungary to Switzerland. BMC Vet. Res., 11. source

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  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    The Czech Republic was considered endemic 10 years ago, but in the last decade there has been no increase in reported cases and only one study has been published in a dog co-infected with D. repens in Příbram, an imported case from Hungary.

    “The Czech Republic was considered endemic 10 years ago, with reports of autochthonous cases and infected dogs coming from neighbouring endemic countries [2,9]. However, in the last decade, there has been no increase in the number of reported cases and only one study has been published in a dog co-infected with D. repens in Příbram, in the Central Bohemian region, being an imported case of Hungary”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 3 sources checked
    • cites [2] 2012, Heartworm Disease (Dirofilaria immitis) and Their Vectors in Europe—New Distribution Trends, Front. Physiol.

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    • cites [9] Otranto, 2013, Vector-borne helminths of dogs and humans in Europe, Parasit. Vectors source

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    • cites [103] Attipa, C., Solano-Gallego, L., Leutenegger, C.M., Papasouliotis, K., Soutter, F., Balzer, J., Carver, S., Buch, J.S., and Tasker, S. (2019). Associations between clinical canine leishmaniosis and multiple vector-borne co-infections: A case-control serological study. BMC Vet. Res., 15. source

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  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    In Cyprus, studies from 2019 reported for the first time occurrence of D. immitis infections in dogs, with prevalence of 0.5 and 4.3%.

    “In Cyprus, studies from 2019 reported for the first time the occurrence of D. immitis infections in dogs in the country, reporting prevalence of 0.5 and 4.3% [101,102], respectively.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [101] Ural, 2014, Spatial distribution of vector borne disease agents in dogs in Aegean region, Turkey, Revista MVZ Córdoba source

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    • cites [102] Kokkinos, 2019, Filarial infections in dogs in Cyprus, an apparently heartworm free island, Vet. Parasitol. Reg. Stud. Rep.

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  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Until 10 years ago, in Slovakia and Hungary, reports of D. immitis were based on isolated or imported cases, but recent studies demonstrated the endemic status of these countries.

    “Until 10 years ago, in Slovakia and Hungary, reports of D. immitis were based on isolated or imported cases [2,4,9]. However, recent studies demonstrated the endemic status of these countries.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 3 sources checked
    • cites [2] 2012, Heartworm Disease (Dirofilaria immitis) and Their Vectors in Europe—New Distribution Trends, Front. Physiol.

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    • cites [4] Genchi, 2020, The prevalence of Dirofilaria immitis and D. repens in the Old World, Vet. Parasitol. source

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    • cites [9] Otranto, 2013, Vector-borne helminths of dogs and humans in Europe, Parasit. Vectors source

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  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    In Hungary, the first autochthonous case was detected in 2009, and studies showed low-moderate prevalence between 0.36 and 8.1%, co-infections with D. repens (3.2%), and high prevalence (51%) in Szeged.

    “In Hungary, where the first autochthonous case was detected in 2009 [109], the number of epidemiological studies has increased considerably. There are studies that showed low-moderate prevalence between 0.36 and 8.1% [110,111,112,113] and co-infections with D. repens (3.2%) [111], while a high prevalence (51%) was reported in Szeged, a city close to Serbia and Romania [114].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 5 sources checked
    • cites [109] Bielik, 2020, The Fatal Case of an Autochthonous Heartworm Disease in a Dog from a Non-endemic Region of South-eastern Slovakia, Helminthologia

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    • cites [110] Majoros, 2009, First autochthonous Dirofilaria immitis (Leidy, 1856) infection in a dog in Hungary, Helminthologia source

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    • cites [111] Farkas, 2014, Seroprevalence of some vector-borne infections of dogs in Hungary, Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis. source

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    • cites [112] Farkas, 2020, The current situation of canine dirofilariosis in Hungary, Parasitol. Res. source

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    • cites [114] Bacsadi, 2016, Retrospective study on the distribution of Dirofilaria immitis in dogs in Hungary, Vet. Parasitol. source

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  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Széll et al. detected canine heartworm prevalence from 0.5 to 8% in Hungary between 2007 and 2018, with most positive dogs in central, western, and southern regions.

    “Széll et al. [115] detected prevalence from 0.5 to 8% between 2007 and 2018, being most of the positive dogs located in the central, western, and southern regions of the country.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [115] Rengei, 2016, Impacts of urbanisation level and distance from potential natural mosquito breeding habitats on the abundance of canine dirofilariosis, Acta Vet. source

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  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    In the last ten years, Serbia was the country where most studies on heartworm in wild carnivores have been carried out, reporting naturally occurring patent infection with D. immitis in otters near the Danube River in eastern regions.

    “In the last ten years, Serbia was the country where most studies have been carried out, reporting naturally occurring patent infection with D. immitis in otters in areas near the Danube River in eastern regions of the country.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 3 sources checked
    • cites [133] Moriano, 2018, First report of a naturally patent infection with Dirofilaria immitis in an otter (Lutra lutra), Parasitol. Res. source

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    • cites [134] Potkonjak, 2020, Molecular survey of Dirofilaria species in stray dogs, red foxes and golden jackals from Vojvodina, Serbia, Comp. Immunol. Microbiol. Infect. Dis. source

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    • cites [135] Becskei, 2014, Case Report of dirofilariasis in grey wolf in Serbia, Acta Parasitol.

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    In Italy, feline heartworm studies are still scarce, and in the last decade studies showed a prevalence of 17.6% in Linosa.

    “In Italy, studies are still scarce. If previously, prevalence in cats was heterogeneous being 6.06–27% in the north and centre of the country, in addition to reports of isolated cases [4,9,123,124], in the last decade, studies in cats showed a prevalence of 17.6% in Linosa (an island halfway between the island of Sicily and the African coast of Tunisia) [40].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 4 sources checked
    • cites [4] Genchi, 2020, The prevalence of Dirofilaria immitis and D. repens in the Old World, Vet. Parasitol. source

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    • cites [9] Otranto, 2013, Vector-borne helminths of dogs and humans in Europe, Parasit. Vectors source

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    • cites [123] Neves, 2020, Survey of Dirofilaria immitis antigen and antibodies to Leishmania infantum and Toxoplasma gondii in cats from Madeira Island, Portugal, Parasit. Vectors source

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    • cites [40] Brianti, 2021, Dirofilaria immitis infection in the Pelagie archipelago: The southernmost hyperendemic focus in Europe, Transbound Emerg. Dis. source

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  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    In Greece, the first feline study was carried out in the north of the country, reporting a prevalence of 3%.

    “In Greece, the first feline study was carried out in the north of the country, reporting a prevalence of 3% [93].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [93] Diakou, 2016, Dirofilaria infections in dogs in different areas of Greece, Parasit. Vectors source

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  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    On Gran Canaria, feline seroprevalence was 18.3% in 2004, 21.3% in 2016, and 22.9% in 2022, demonstrating a slow but constant increase in feline seroprevalences.

    “Moreover, on the island of Gran Canaria, a seroprevalence of 18.3% was recorded in cats in 2004 [119], so the results of the latest studies being 21.3% in 2016 [18] and 22.9% in 2022 [17] demonstrates a slow but constant increase in feline seroprevalences [120].”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 3 sources checked
    • cites [119] Giner, 2021, Prevalence of microfilariae, antigen and antibodies of feline dirofilariosis infection (Dirofilaria immitis) in the Zaragoza metropolitan area, Spain, Vet. Parasitol. Reg. Stud. Rep.

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [18] 2016, The impact of the climate on the epidemiology of Dirofilaria immitis in the pet population of the Canary Islands, Vet. Parasitol. source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [17] Montoya-Alonso, J.A., Morchón, R., García-Rodríguez, S.N., Falcón-Cordón, Y., Costa-Rodríguez, N., Matos, J.I., Rodríguez Escolar, I., and Carretón, E. (2022). Expansion of Canine Heartworm in Spain. Animals, 12. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisenone given

    Studies focused on wild animals have increased substantially but are still scarce.

    “Although the studies focused on wild animals have increased substantially, they are still scarce.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    In Portugal, feline prevalence studies demonstrate important presence of D. immitis in cats, with seroprevalence of 15% in centre Portugal in 2009-2010, highest seroprevalences in Aveiro and Viseu (18.7 and 17.6%), 4.8% in southern Portugal, and 3.5% on Madeira.

    “In Portugal, feline prevalence studies are relatively recent, but demonstrate the important presence of this parasite in the cats living in the country. The seroprevalence of samples collected in the centre of Portugal in 2009 and 2010 was 15% [13], the highest feline seroprevalences being found in Aveiro and Viseu (18.7 and 17.6%, respectively). Later, Maia et al. [121] reported a prevalence of 4”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 3 sources checked
    • cites [13] Vieira, 2014, Prevalence of canine heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis) disease in dogs of central Portugal, Parasite source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [121] Lambea, 2019, Cituación actual de la dirofilariosis feline, Argos

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [122] Maia, 2015, Prevalence of Dirofilaria immitis antigen and antibodies to Leishmania infantum in cats from southern Portugal, Parasitol. Int. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    In Germany, a retrospective study from 2012 to 2020 identified heartworm in three cats in 2012, and in Austria the first case of autochthonous feline D. immitis infection was published in 2012.

    “In Germany, a retrospective study from 2012 to 2020 identified heartworm in three cats in 2012 [129]. In Austria, the first case of autochthonous feline D. immitis infection is published in 2012 [130].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [129] Kohn, 2021, Retrospective evaluation of vector-borne pathogens in cats living in Germany (2012–2020), Parasit. Vectors source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [130] Kulmer, L.M., Unterköfler, M.S., Fuehrer, H.P., Janovska, V., Pagac, M., Svoboda, M., Venco, L., and Leschnik, M. (2021). First Autochthonous Infection of a Cat with Dirofilaria immitis in Austria. Pathogens, 10. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    In Bulgaria and Romania, the first reports on feline heartworm infection are documented: in Bulgaria, a cat co-infected with Ae. abstrusus; in Romania, a cat from southern country.

    “In Bulgaria and Romania, the first reports on feline heartworm infection are documented: in Bulgaria, a cat co-infected with Ae. abstrusus [131]; in Romania, a cat from Southern country [132].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [131] Tonev, 2021, Clinical Case of Life-threatening Co-infection Due to Dirofilaria Immitis and Aelurostrongylus Abstrusus in a Cat: First Report of Feline Heartworm Disease in Bulgaria, Helminthologia source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [132] Mitrea, 2020, First Report on Clinical Feline Heartworm (Dirofilaria Immitis) Infection in Romania, Helminthologia source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Penezić et al. and Potkonjac et al. showed presence of heartworm in golden jackals (prevalence 7.32 and 3.1%, respectively) and in red foxes (1.55 and 5.3%, respectively); Penezić et al. also showed prevalence of 1.43% in wolves and 7.69% in wild cats.

    “Penezić et al. [137] and Potkonjac et al. [134] showed presence of heartworm in golden jackals (prevalence of 7.32 and 3.1%, respectively), and in red foxes (1.55 and 5.3%, respectively). In addition, Penezić et al. [137] showed prevalence of 1.43% in wolves and 7.69% in wild cats.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [137] 2014, First findings and prevalence of adult heartworms (Dirofilaria immitis) in wild carnivores from Serbia, Parasitol. Res. source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [134] Potkonjak, 2020, Molecular survey of Dirofilaria species in stray dogs, red foxes and golden jackals from Vojvodina, Serbia, Comp. Immunol. Microbiol. Infect. Dis. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Several studies have shown prevalence of D. immitis antigens between 3-44.4% in red foxes and 4.4-58.7% in golden jackals, with isolated cases detected by necropsy.

    “In addition, several studies have shown a prevalence of D. immitis antigens between 3–44.4% in red foxes, and 4.4–58.7% in golden jackals; furthermore, isolated cases of infected red foxes and golden jackals were detected by necropsy [83,89,144].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 3 sources checked
    • cites [83] Dakova, 2020, Dirofilaria Immitis in Bulgaria: The First Genetic Baseline Data and an Overview of the Current Status, Helminthologia source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [89] Stoyanova, 2019, Stray Dogs of Sofia (Bulgaria) Could be an Important Reservoir of Heartworm (Dirofilaria Immitis), Helminthologia source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [144] Mirchev, 2013, Dirofilaria immitis in foxes (Vulpes Vulpes, LINNAEUS, 1758) in different areas from Bulgaria, Intern. Sci. Online J. Sci. Tech.

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    In Italy, prevalence observed in wolves was 13.6%, with three to five adult worms in most cases, and another study in northern Italy found heartworms in 1.42% of wolves studied.

    “In Italy, the prevalence observed in wolves was 13.6%, finding from three to five adult worms in most cases. Another study in northern Italy found heartworms in 1.42% of the wolves studied [143].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [143] Moroni, 2020, Dirofilaria immitis in wolves recolonizing northern Italy: Are wolves competent hosts?, Parasit. Vectors source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    In the Danube Delta Biosphere Reserve, Romania, the prevalence of D. immitis infection in three species of mosquitoes was 4.53%, with the highest prevalence in An. maculipennis, followed by Cq. richiardii and An. hyrcanus.

    “In Romania, in the Danube Delta Biosphere Reserve, Tomazatos et al. [158] reported a prevalence of 4.53% of infection by D. immitis in three species of mosquitoes; the highest prevalence was detected in An. maculipennis, followed by Cq. richiardii and An. hyrcanus.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [158] Tomazatos, 2018, Circulation of Dirofilaria immitis and Dirofilaria repens in the Danube Delta Biosphere Reserve, Romania, Parasit. Vectors source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    In Italy, culicid vectors of Dirofilaria have been demonstrated in different regions, including Cx. pipiens in north-eastern Italy, Ae. albopictus, Cq. richiardii, Cs. annulate, Cx. pipiens, and Och. caspius in southern Italy, and Ae. albopictus in Pelagie Archipelago.

    “In Italy, several studies have continued to demonstrate the existence of culicid vectors of Dirofilaria in different regions of the country, such as Cx. pipiens in north-eastern Italy [150], Ae. albopictus, Cq. richiardii, Cs. annulate, Cx. pipiens, and Och. caspius in southern Italy [34,151], and Ae. albopictus in Pelagie Archipelago [40].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 4 sources checked
    • cites [150] Capelli, 2013, Risk of canine and human exposure to Dirofilaria immitis infected mosquitoes in endemic areas of Italy, Parasit. Vectors source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [34] Giangaspero, 2013, Evidences of increasing risk of dirofilarioses in southern Italy, Parasitol. Res. source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [151] Panarese, 2020, Hyperendemic Dirofilaria immitis infection in a sheltered dog population: An expanding threat in the Mediterranean region, Intern. J. Parasitol. source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [40] Brianti, 2021, Dirofilaria immitis infection in the Pelagie archipelago: The southernmost hyperendemic focus in Europe, Transbound Emerg. Dis. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    In Romania, prevalence between 7.58-9.26% was reported in golden jackals, 0.33% in red foxes, and 10% in feral cats.

    “In Romania, prevalence between 7.58–9.26% was reported in golden jackals, 0.33% in red foxes, and 10% in feral cats [140,141].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [140] Matei, 2016, Role of golden jackals (Canis aureus) as natural reservoirs of Dirofilaria spp. in Romania, Parasit. Vectors source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [141] Matei, 2017, Dirofilaria immitis and D. repens show circadian co-periodicity in naturally co-infected dogs, Parasit. Vectors source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Until 2011, vectors shown to be potential transmitters of dirofilariosis were Cx. theileri in Portugal, Cx. pipiens in peninsular Spain, Cx. theileri in the Canary Islands, Cx. pipiens, Ae. albopictus, Ae. caspius, An. maculipennis, and Cq. richiardii in Italy, and Cx. pipiens and Ae. vexans in Turkey.

    “Until 2011, vectors that showed to be potential transmitters of dirofilariosis were Cx. theileri in Portugal, Cx. pipiens in peninsular Spain, and Cx. theileri in the Canary Islands (Spain), Cx. pipiens, Ae. albopictus, Ae. caspius, An. maculipennis, and Cq. richiardii in Italy, and Cx. pipiens and Ae. vexans in Turkey [2].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [2] 2012, Heartworm Disease (Dirofilaria immitis) and Their Vectors in Europe—New Distribution Trends, Front. Physiol.

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    In Russia, D. immitis was found in foxes, jackals, and raccoon dogs with global prevalence of 23.4% in Krasnodar Krai, the highest prevalence on the European continent in the last 20 years.

    “In Russia, D. immitis was found in foxes, jackals, and raccoon dogs with a global prevalence of 23.4% in Krasnodar Krai, being the highest prevalence on the European continent in the last 20 years [142].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [142] Kravchenko, 2016, Dirofilaria immitis and D. repens in sylvatic reservoirs of Krasnodar Krai (Russian Federation), Vet. Parasitol. Reg. Stud. Rep.

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    In the Southern Great Plain in Hungary, Cx. modestus, Cx. pipiens, and Och. caspius have been identified as heartworm vectors, and Cq. richiardii has also been identified in the country.

    “In the Southern Great Plain in Hungary, Cx. modestus, Cx. pipiens, and Och. caspius were identified as heartworm vectors; furthermore, Cq. richiardii was also identified in the country [156,157].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [156] Zittra, 2015, Screening blood-fed mosquitoes for the diagnosis of filarioid helminths and avian malaria, Parasit. Vectors source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [157] Kurucz, 2018, Filarial nematode (order, Spirurida) surveillance in urban habitats, in the city of Pécs (Hungary), Parasitol. Res. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationnone given

    In recent years, the number of competent vectors has increased significantly and new species of mosquitoes able to transmit D. immitis have been identified.

    “However, the number of competent vectors has increased significantly in the last years and new species of mosquitos able to transmit D. immitis have been identified.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationreasoning

    Reports of D. immitis have increased in countries where the presence of this parasite was already known, while heartworm cases have been confirmed in regions and countries that to date remained free of its presence.

    “Thus, reports of D. immitis have increased in countries where the presence of this parasite was already known, while heartworm cases have been confirmed in regions and countries that to date remained free of its presence.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim
    • Rests on an assumption: The observed increase in reports of D. immitis reflects a true increase in infection or expansion, not solely increased surveillance or awareness.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    The time needed for D. immitis larvae to develop to L3 is temperature-dependent: 8-10 days at 28-30 °C, 11-12 days at 24 °C, and 16-20 days at 22 °C, while below 14 °C larval development stops.

    “This is evident in the time needed for the larvae to develop to L3, which is temperature-dependent (8–10 days at 28–30 °C, 11–12 days at 24 °C, and 16–20 days at 22 °C), while below 14 °C, larvae development stops [165].”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [165] Cancrini, 2007, Aedes albopictus and Culex pipiens implicated as natural vectors of Dirofilaria repens in central Italy, J. Med. Entomol.

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationreasoning

    An increase in temperatures favours transmission of D. immitis to animals and humans by lengthening annual periods of mosquito activity and shortening larval development stages.

    “The increase in temperatures favours the transmission of the disease to animals and humans by allowing the annual periods of activity of the mosquitoes to be lengthened and the stages of development of the larvae to be shortened.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    In Russia, estimated infection rates of D. immitis in mosquitoes varied from 3.1 to 3.7% in the central part and from 1.1 to 3.0% in the southern region.

    “In Russia, Shaikevich et al. [163] estimated that the infection rates in mosquitoes from the central part of Russia varied from 3.1 to 3.7% and, in the southern region, from 1.1 to 3.0%.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [163] Shaikevich, 2019, Dirofilaria and Wolbachia in mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae) in central European Russia and on the Black Sea coast, Parasite source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Buildings and asphalt retain heat, leading to heat islands, which favour microclimates that support development of D. immitis larvae in mosquitoes even during colder months.

    “Buildings and asphalt retain the heat of the day, leading to the formation of so-called “heat islands”, which favour the creation of microclimates that support the development of D. immitis larvae in mosquitoes even during the colder months [22].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [22] 2017, Prevalence of heartworm in dogs and cats of Madrid, Spain, Parasit. Vectors source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    In Slovakia, D. immitis larvae have been demonstrated in Ae. vexans in eastern Slovakia and in Cq. richiardii, Cx. pipiens pipiens, and Och. sticus in western Slovakia.

    “In Slovakia, two studies have demonstrated the presence of D. immitis larvae in Ae. vexans mosquitoes in eastern Slovakia [160] and Cq. richiardii, Cx. pipiens pipiens, and Och. sticus in western Slovakia [161].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [160] 2015, Potential mosquito (Diptera:Culicidae) vector of Dirofilaria repens and Dirofilaria immitis in urban areas of Eastern Slovakia, Parasitol. Res. source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [161] Rudolf, 2018, Urbanization impact on mosquito community and the transmission potential of filarial infection in central Europe, Parasit. Vectors source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims. The quote only partly states this claim.

    Premisecitation

    In Spain, a GIS model based on temperature, rainfall, and location of irrigated crops predicted the highest risk of D. immitis transmission in several areas from the centre, east, and south of the Iberian Peninsula, where moderate/high temperatures concurred with extensive irrigated crops, and high risk in some places of the Canary Islands and Balearic Islands; the lowest risk was predicted in the

    “In Spain, a GIS model was developed to predict the risk of D. immitis transmission in the country, based on data of temperature, rainfall, and the location of irrigated crops, concluding that the highest risk of transmission was located in several areas from the centre, east, and south of the Iberian Peninsula, where moderate/high temperatures concurred with the presence of extensive irrigated”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [177] Afonin, 2014, Geo-environmental model for the prediction of potential transmission risk of Dirofilaria in an area with dry climate and extensive irrigated crops. The case of Spain, Vet. Parasitol. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationnone given

    In traditionally endemic countries of southern Europe, prevalence and seroprevalence in animals have continued to increase, except for some territories where control measures adopted have achieved a decrease in prevalence.

    “Moreover, in the traditionally endemic countries of southern Europe, prevalence and seroprevalence in animals have continued to increase, except for some territories where the control measures adopted have achieved a decrease in prevalence.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    In Hungary, a study between 1995 and 2018 reported a rapid spread of D. immitis based on geo-referencing of infected dogs and golden jackals and detection of anomalous annual temperature data compared to the four previous years.

    “In Hungary, a study carried out between 1995 and 2018 reported a rapid spread of the disease, based on the geo-referencing of infected animals (dogs and golden jackals) and the detection of anomalous annual temperature data compared to the four previous years.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [115] Rengei, 2016, Impacts of urbanisation level and distance from potential natural mosquito breeding habitats on the abundance of canine dirofilariosis, Acta Vet. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationnone given

    In other European countries, isolated cases or cases imported from endemic areas have continued to appear and have even increased.

    “In other countries, isolated cases or cases imported from endemic areas have continued to appear and have even increased.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Mortarino et al. estimated the annual number of D. immitis generations in mosquitoes and determined that transmission was limited to the summer months, mainly July and August.

    “In addition, Mortarino et al. [27] estimated the annual number of D. immitis generations in mosquitoes and determined that transmission was limited to the summer months, mainly July and August.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [27] Mortarino, 2008, GIS modeling for canine dirofilariosis risk assessment in central Italy, Geospat. Health source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    In Romania, a GIS study demonstrated high risk of D. immitis infection in the southeast and moderate risk in the centre of the country due to favourable temperature and humidity for culicid mosquitoes; these regions were characterised by floodplains and had the highest canine prevalence, corroborating the validity of the prediction model.

    “A study of similar characteristics was carried out in Romania [78], where a high risk of infection in the southeast and moderate in the centre of the country were demonstrated, due to favourable temperature and humidity for the presence of culicid mosquitoes. These regions were characterised by floodplains; moreover, in these regions, the highest canine prevalence was found, corroborating the”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [78] Cazan, 2020, Detection of Leishmania infantum DNA and antibodies against Anaplasma spp.; Borrelia burgdorferi s.l. and Ehrlichia canis in a dog kennel in South-Central Romania, Acta Vet. Scand. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    The authors of the Hungarian study concluded that two main factors favoured the spread of D. immitis: increase in temperatures and increase and expansion in the population of golden jackals, the most important reservoir of heartworm in the fauna of the Mediterranean Balkans.

    “The authors concluded that two main factors were favouring this spread: the increase in temperatures as well as the increase and expansion in the population of golden jackals, the most important reservoir of heartworm in the fauna of the Mediterranean Balkans.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [115] Rengei, 2016, Impacts of urbanisation level and distance from potential natural mosquito breeding habitats on the abundance of canine dirofilariosis, Acta Vet. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Considering that larval development does not occur below the threshold temperature of around 14 °C, a high risk of D. immitis infection was estimated in southern Spain and Portugal, some areas of southern France, Corsica, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Turkey, Cyprus, the coast of Albania, several regions of northern and southern Italy, Naples, Sardinia and Sicily, Greece, some areas of Bulgaria, south-e

    “Moreover, considering that larval development does not occur below the threshold temperature of around 14 °C, the number of heartworm generations was determined and a high risk of infection was estimated in southern Spain and Portugal, some areas of southern France, Corsica, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Turkey, Cyprus, the coast of Albania, several regions of northern and southern Italy, Naples, Sard”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [167] Genchi, 2011, Changing climate and changing vector-borne disease distribution: The example of Dirofilaria in Europe, Vet. Parasitol. source

      Not checked in the free run.

83 of 83

  • The paper relies on this without support.

    Europe is facing new climatic conditions caused by climate change.

    “Europe is facing new climatic conditions caused by climate change, or the presence of new competent vectors that increase the time of exposure to the parasite (daytime and crepuscular/nocturnal mosquitoes) and that widen the risk zones (mosquitoes more resistant to low temperatures, overwintering eggs, etc.).”

  • The paper relies on this without support.

    The presence of new competent vectors increases the time of exposure to the parasite and widens the risk zones.

    “Europe is facing new climatic conditions caused by climate change, or the presence of new competent vectors that increase the time of exposure to the parasite (daytime and crepuscular/nocturnal mosquitoes) and that widen the risk zones (mosquitoes more resistant to low temperatures, overwintering eggs, etc.).”

  • The paper relies on this without support.

    Detection of D. immitis larvae in a mosquito species indicates that the species is a competent vector or that transmission occurs.

    “In Belarus, a country with no data on the occurrence of D. immitis in animals, Cx. pipiens/torrentium was identified as a vector of heartworm disease [159].”

  • The paper relies on this without support.

    The observed increase in reports of D. immitis reflects a true increase in infection or expansion, not solely increased surveillance or awareness.

    “Thus, reports of D. immitis have increased in countries where the presence of this parasite was already known, while heartworm cases have been confirmed in regions and countries that to date remained free of its presence.”
4 of 4

Claims other papers make about this one

Each is checked against this paper’s own text: does it say what the citing paper says it does?

Self-check

Percentages, sums and reported differences re-computed from the paper’s own numbers.

Each contradiction between two passages listed here was confirmed by an independent check.

  • Spanish feline survey cites a study of imported dogs

    Minor

    The nationwide feline seroprevalence is attributed to [117], which is a report about rescue dogs imported from Hungary to Switzerland.

  • Romanian prevalence is attributed to an unrelated reference

    Minor

    The text attributes a Romanian heartworm prevalence to Mircean et al. [74], but reference [74] is a study of ticks in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

  • Gran Canaria 2004 result cites a Zaragoza 2021 study

    Minor

    Reference [119] is a 2021 study of the Zaragoza metropolitan area, not the stated 2004 Gran Canaria study.

  • Austrian feline case is dated 2012, but its cited report is from 2021

    Minor

    The text says the first autochthonous feline case was published in 2012, whereas reference [130] is dated 2021.

4 of 4

Cites

Flagged first, then by citations

Research works printed but not linked: 7

  1. Piccinini, G., and Carreri, L. (2020, January April). An Epidemiologic Assessment of Canine Heartworm in Northern Italy. Proceedings of the 13th Trienial State of the Heartworm Symposium, Memphis, TN, USA.
  2. 2020, Case study: Canine heartworm disease diagnosed in Ireland, Vet. Ireland J., 10, 251
  3. Demiaszkiewicz, 2012, First autochthonous case of Dirofilaria immitis invasion in dog in Poland, Žycie Weterynaryjne, 87, 685
  4. Iliev, 2017, Retrospective analysis on helminthic and protozoan infections in dogs and cats in Bulgaria, Bulg. J. Vet. Med., 20, 389
  5. Lambea, 2019, Cituación actual de la dirofilariosis feline, Argos, 21, 4
  6. Becskei, 2014, Case Report of dirofilariasis in grey wolf in Serbia, Acta Parasitol., 60, 175
  7. Mirchev, 2013, Dirofilaria immitis in foxes (Vulpes Vulpes, LINNAEUS, 1758) in different areas from Bulgaria, Intern. Sci. Online J. Sci. Tech., 3, 38

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Authors
Morchón, R., Montoya-Alonso, J. A., Rodríguez-Escolar, I., & Carretón, E.
Affiliations
  • Universidad de Salamanca (ES)
  • Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (ES)
Corresponding author
  • Morchón, Rodrigo
  • Carretón, Elena
ORCID
Venue
Pathogens
Publisher
MDPI AG
Published
2022-09-13
Volume
11
Issue
9
Pages
1042
ISSN
2076-0817 (ISSN-L)
DOI
10.3390/pathogens11091042
PMC
PMC9503846
OpenAlex
W4296006267
Semantic Scholar
fb5bd7fe6dc053b39194f2f024837c488aebf04a
Cited by
69
References
169
Citations by year
2026: 13 · 2025: 19 · 2024: 22 · 2023: 14 · 2022: 1
FWCI
2.19
Type
journal article
Language
en
Open access
Licence
Locations
  • Pathogens (publishedVersion, cc-by)
  • PubMed Central (publishedVersion, cc-by)
  • PubMed (publishedVersion)
  • Acceda (Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria) (submittedVersion)
  • DOAJ (DOAJ: Directory of Open Access Journals) (submittedVersion, cc-by-sa)
Topics
  • Health Sciences › Medicine › Infectious Diseases › Parasitic Diseases Research and Treatment
  • Health Sciences › Veterinary › Small Animals › Helminth infection and control
  • Health Sciences › Medicine › Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health › Research on Leishmaniasis Studies
Keywords
heartworm disease, Dirofilaria immitis, Europe, disease epidemiology, canine heartworm disease, feline heartworm infection, climate change, zoonotic transmission, disease spread, urban heat island, irrigated crops, pet travel, disease control

About these checks

Registry, retraction, Cites and statistics results are computed, not judged, with one exception: a printed reference that no index lists is read once by a model before it counts as a citation error. Claims are extracted by a model and kept only when their quote appears verbatim in the text; each cited source is then checked, with a model’s help, for whether it says what the claim relies on. Those verdicts can be wrong — read the claim’s quote and the cited source before relying on one.

Claims read by deepseek-v4.1-flash under definition version 3 (extract-v3) on 2026-10-09.

Classified by jev-1.13-20260917 (gold-guideline-v0.2) on 2026-10-09.

Statistics and arithmetic are recomputed, not judged.

Confidence bands are shown only for fields calibrated on our annotated test set. None is calibrated yet, so no band is shown.

What counts as a claim ›How we measure confidence ›How we check this ›

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