Series of masterclasses: canine dirofilariosis – current challenges in diagnosis, prevention, and control

On 31 March 2026, we took part in the masterclass Canine dirofilariosis: the mosquito bites once, the consequences last for years, held in Bucharest. The event brought together veterinarians and specialists in parasitology for a focused discussion on one of the most important vector-borne parasitic diseases affecting dogs.

The masterclass addressed the current situation of canine dirofilariosis in Romania and Europe, with particular emphasis on the growing relevance of Dirofilaria immitis infection in veterinary practice. Because this parasite is transmitted by mosquitoes and may lead to severe and sometimes irreversible cardiopulmonary lesions, early recognition, prevention, and proper case management remain essential.

During the event, we discussed the main challenges of early diagnosis, the role of mosquito vectors in disease transmission, current options for prevention and treatment, and the importance of long-term prophylactic strategies in daily veterinary work. The meeting was designed as a practical and scientifically grounded exchange, aimed at supporting clinicians in dealing with a disease that is often insidious in onset but potentially severe in outcome.

We were glad to contribute to this educational event and to be part of a wider professional dialogue on heartworm disease, a topic that continues to gain importance in both clinical parasitology and small animal medicine.