Assessment of zoonotic parasites in sand sports courts in Brazil.

The popularity of sand sports has increased significantly, driven by their recreational appeal combined with health benefits. However, because these sports are typically played barefoot in areas where dogs and cats may roam freely, the risk of human exposure to zoonotic parasites-such as the causative agents of cutaneous and visceral larva migrans (Ancylostoma caninum, A. braziliense, and Strongyloides stercoralis)-increases. This study aimed to investigate the presence of potentially zoonotic helminth larvae in the sand of public sports courts in the municipality of Ilhéus, Bahia, Brazil, a coastal region with high tourist influx. Thirty-eight courts were analyzed during the winter (August 2022) and summer (February 2023), with sand samples collected at three depths (surface, 10 cm, and 20 cm). Samples were processed using the modified Rugai method and examined via light microscopy for morphological identification of the larvae. Statistical analyses to identify environmental and seasonal factors associated with the parasites included chi-square, Fisher's exact, and generalized linear model (GLM) tests. Of the courts evaluated, 18 (47.3%) tested positive for zoonotic helminths in the winter and 19 (50.0%) in the summer. Strongyloides spp. were more frequent in the winter (13 courts; 34.2%), while Ancylostoma spp. were more frequent in the summer (15 courts; 39.5%). Across both seasons, 27 courts harbored at least one parasite, with nine testing positive during both periods. Ancylostoma spp. occurred predominantly in the surface layer during the summer, whereas Strongyloides spp. were more abundant in the shallow and deep layers during the winter. The presence of grass surrounding the courts acted as a protective factor against Ancylostoma spp. (OR = 0.25; p = 0.048), while complete shading favored Strongyloides spp. (OR = 13.71; p = 0.033). These findings highlight elevated contamination of the courts throughout the year and reinforce the need for year-round environmental sanitation measures, properly management of stray or owned dogs and cats populations, and health education to reduce the risk of infection in recreational areas.