Epidemiology of canine echinococcosis in northwest Libya, northwest Kenya (Turkana) and mid-Wales

Echinococcus granulosus is a cestode species responsible for human cystic echinococcosis (CE). The domestic dog is the primary definitive host for the transmission of E.granulosus infection to domestic livestock intermediate hosts and to humans. In order to determine the prevalence and risk factors for canine echinococcosis, epidemiological studies were conducted in known endemic localities in three different countries i.e. Libya, Kenya and Wales. Stray dogs were subject to direct examination of the small intestine at necropsy. Owned dogs (total n=1659) were screened for E.granulosus infection using a genus specific coproantigen ELISA test that was re- standardised against 75 dog necropsy results, and exhibited 100% sensitivity and 98% specificity. Analysis of risk factors for canine echinococcosis associated with Echinococcus coproantigen positive results was evaluated based on dog-owner questionnaires. In Libya, the overall infection of E.granulosus in autopsied dogs was 25.8%, and an overall coproantigen prevalence of 21.6% was obtained for owned dogs (n= 334). Risk factors (p4month intervals) of dogs. The data are discussed in relation to a previous pilot hydatid control program in that area of Wales (1983-89) and the potential for increase in transmission to humans. Identification of risk factors associated with canine echinococcosis appear to be similar in all three communities studied and help to demonstrate practices that may be amenable to change as part of hydatid control programmes