Echinococcus multilocularis: the prevalence of the fox tapeworm with possible serious consequences for humans
Van der Giessen, J.W.B.; Borgsteede, F.H.M.
Tijdschrift Voor Diergeneeskunde 127(10): 318-321
2002
ISSN/ISBN: 0040-7453 PMID: 12056263 Document Number: 547673
The prevalence of the fox tapeworm in foxes (final host) and muskrats (one of the intermediate hosts) in the Netherlands and Europe has been discussed. The tapeworm was found in 9.4% of the investigated foxes from the province of Groningen and in 0.2% of the muskrats from the same region. Also in the province of Limburg positive foxes were found, but no positive muskrats. Possible ways of infection for humans are described together with methods for prevention. It is concluded that at this moment risks for humans to become infected are minimal, but vigilance and monitoring of foxes and muskrats remains needed.