Review article
https://doi.org/10.31727/m.27.6.4
Echinococcosis and its public health significance
Ena Dervišević
; Veterinarski fakultet Univerziteta u Sarajevu, Sarajevo, Bosna i Hercegovina
Almedina Zuko
; Veterinarski fakultet Univerziteta u Sarajevu, Sarajevo, Bosna i Hercegovina
*
* Corresponding author.
Abstract
Echinococcosis is a serious, cosmopolitan, globally widespread zoonosis with significant public health and economic consequences. The causative agents of the disease are parasites of the genus Echinococcus, with the species E. granulosus and E. multilocularis being the most important from the aspect of human health, leading to cystic and alveolar echinococcosis. Their complex indirect life cycle includes intermediate and definitive hosts, with humans being an accidental host most often infected through consumption of contaminated food or water, contact with infected animals, through dirty hands in case of inadequate hygiene. The disease in humans commonly affects the liver and lungs, follows a chronic course, and can range from mild and non-specific symptoms to severe illness with serious complications. The quality of life of affected people is impaired, and diagnostics and treatment incur considerable costs. After surgical procedures, disability levels may vary depending on the cyst’s location. In infected animals, there is a reduction in meat, milk, and wool yield, leading to economic losses, and at the same time the animals are weak, emaciated, the wool loses its luster and falls out. This review aims to present the basic characteristics of echinococcosis in humans and animals, with special emphasis on the epidemiological significance, distribution, routes and modes of transmission and prevention measures. It emphasizes the importance of timely diagnostics, public education and systemic control measures, including deworming of dogs, livestock farms monitoring, food and drinking water hygiene, adequate veterinary and sanitary meat inspection, and safe and proper disposal of slaughter animal waste. Given that echinococcosis affects both the health system and livestock production, it represents a multidimensional challenge that requires cooperation between different professions, regular monitoring of the epidemiological situation and public education.
Keywords
echinococcosis, public health, zoonosis, veterinary and sanitary inspection of meat
Hrčak ID:
340733
URI
Publication date:
14.12.2025.
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