Prevalence and Distribution of Taeniasis and Cysticercosis

Abstract

Taenia saginata and Taenia solium are found through the whole world, especially in developing countries. These tapeworms live in the small intestines of humans. Cattle and pigs are the intermediate animal hosts. Serious signs and symptoms are found if T. solium is infecting the central nervous system. Cases with epileptic seizures and abnormal behavior are often found in endemic areas. In Mexico among 68.754 human serum samples 0,06-2,97% were found positive for cysticercosis. Apparently there was an association between high sero prevalence rates and low socio-economic conditions. In several countries in Latin America, prevalences were between 0,1-8,7%, whereas prevalences between 0,05-10,4% were detected in Asia and Africa. In Indonesia taeniasis/cysticercosis are mostly found in three provinces i.e. North Sumatra, Bali and Irian Jaya. Cases were also discovered in North Sulawesi, Southeast Sulawesi, East Nusa Tenggara and West Kalimantan. The prevalences of taeniasis/cysticercosis in Indonesia were between 1,0-42,7%. The highest prevalence rate was in Irian Jaya (Papua). Not many reports are available for cysticercosis in cattle and in pigs in the world, including Indonesia. The collection of epidemiological data such as on prevalence rates and distribution are needed for a successful control program. In addition community health education should be implemented in control programs.