Investigations and actions taken during 2011 due to the first finding of Echinococcus multilocularis in Sweden

H Wahlström,M Hjertqvist,E Osterman Lind,E Lindström,C Davelid,G E Olsson,E O Ågren,M Cedersmyg,B Hörnfeldt,A Lindberg,U Carlsson,S Widgren,A Wallensten,D Christensson,M Elvander,J Lindh,A Barragan,R Lindqvist,L Plym-Forshell

doi:10.2807/ese.17.28.20215-en

Abstract

Echinococcus multilocularis is a parasite that can cause alveolar echinococcosis disease. After the first positive finding of E. multilocularis in Sweden in 2011, a consulting group with representatives from relevant authorities was summoned. In this group, all relevant information was shared, strategies for information dissemination and any actions to be taken due to the finding of E. multilocularis were discussed and decided. The present paper describes the actions taken during 2011 and the results thereof, including surveillance in animals, risk assessment for humans to become infected and recommendations given to the public. Further discussion about whether the parasite was introduced, and if so, how, as well as possible future development of the infection in animals and humans in Sweden and future actions are included.

Highlights

Alveolar echinococcosis (AE) is a disease in humans caused by the larval stage of the tapeworm Echinococcus multilocularis (EM)
The aim of the present paper is to describe the actions taken due to this finding and the results thereof, i.e. surveillance in animals, risk assessment for humans to become infected and recommendations given to the public
It was considered most probable that EM had been introduced to Sweden in recent years by infected dogs [4] and the spread of EM could be geographically restricted

Summary

Introduction

Alveolar echinococcosis (AE) is a disease in humans caused by the larval stage of the tapeworm Echinococcus multilocularis (EM). The known range of the parasite in Europe has extended and, data is not comprehensive, it is assumed that the parasite is present over most of Europe with the exception of the British Isles and the Mediterranean region [1]. It is unclear whether this extension corresponds to its true range or whether it reflects previous absence of surveillance [1]. The fox was shot within the routine surveillance programme in 2010 After this finding, a consulting group, lead by the National Board of Health and Welfare (SoS), was summoned. Regular teleconferences were usually held every 1–2 weeks, during which information concerning EM and the situation in the country was shared, and strategies for information dissemination and actions to be taken were discussed and decided

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Conclusion