Meat Industry as Our Best Chance for Controlling Transmission of a Tiny but Deadly Tapeworm

Abstract

Echinoccocosis is a zoonotic disease which can have severe, even lethal consequences for the host, yet multiple effective means of controlling transmission and thus preventing infection, are available. Echinococcus granulosus and E. multilocularis are the two tapeworm species which are clinically most relevant in Europe and both are endemic in the Balkans. The life cycle of the tapeworm includes intermediate and dead-end hosts, ungulates and humans, as well as definitive hosts, the Canidae and Felidae. Disease caused by E. multilocularis, alveolar echinococcosis (AE) is more severe and also difficult to diagnose, especially in animals. Echinococcosis in livestock leads to morbidity and mortality, thereby facilitating economic losses at various levels. Reporting is mandatory, yet under-reporting is a common occurrence as is the failure to identify relevant geographical transmission foci in a timely manner, thus contributing to continuous tapeworm transmission and spread. As echinococcosis is a foodborne disease in animals and humans, the food industry, and particularly the meat industry, are key stakeholders in raising awareness, lobbying government authorities for control measures and improved diagnostics.