(A926) Group a Streptococcus in Household Dogs: Zoonotic Risk Assessment and Case-Based Insights

Introduction: While 2012 IDSA guidelines do not recommend canine testing for GAS pharyngitis, some evidence suggests a potential zoonotic link between dogs and humans. We review a case study of an 8-year-old boy with recurrent GAS pharyngitis. His asymptomatic household members tested negative for GAS, while the family dog tested positive. Current literature lacks research on canines as asymptomatic carriers for recurrent GAS pharyngitis, prompting this study to evaluate whether household dogs may serve as reservoirs for GAS and to potentially update IDSA guidelines.

Methods: Through an observational cross-sectional study, 201 domestic canines were swabbed for GAS. Samples were classified as positive, negative, or invalid. A survey collected data on dog breeds, symptoms, socialization habits, and household members’ strep throat history. Prevalence of GAS in the canine population was analyzed using descriptive data.

Results: All 201 canine samples were negative for GAS, suggesting dogs in the studied population are unlikely reservoirs for GAS. However, the case study’s positive canine result underscores a possible zoonotic link. Previous IDSA recommendations against canine screening were based on limited studies, mainly involving symptomatic dogs and other streptococcal species. This case highlights the need for further research to assess whether specific canine populations may act as carriers for recurrent GAS in humans.

Conclusions: Although our case study supports the potential role of canines in recurrent GAS transmission, the cross-sectional study found no GAS in the canine population. Future research should focus on households with recurrent GAS cases, screening all members and pets using refined sampling techniques. This could guide updated guidelines and improve management of recurrent GAS pharyngitis.