Endemic in central and eastern Europe.

Final hosts are foxes, dogs, raccoon dogs and cats, after ingestion of larval stages in intermediate hosts (mainly rodents).  Dogs should be prevented from having access to raw offal and carcases.  Pre-patent period is 28 days and patent period can be for several months.

Asymptomatic.

Morphology and size of proglottids on faecal samples.  Egg detection with flotation, sedimentation or combined techniques (not very sensitive and Taenia-type eggs cannot be differentiated morphologically).  Coproantigen detection enables detection of pre-patent infections 10 days p.i. with a sensitivity of more than 90% if more than 50 worms are present, lower if less than 50 worms are present.  PCR/sequencing allows species identification (from isolated eggs or proglottids).

Red foxes, raccoon dogs and rarely dogs and cats may excrete eggs of Echinococcus multilocularis in faeces.  The accidental oral consumption of E. multilocularis eggs causes alveolar echinococcosis in humans, which if untreated has potentially fatal consequences and this is therefore of major public health concern.  Infection with eggs results in the formation of cysts also in animals such as pigs, horses and dogs.

Endemic in central and eastern Europe.

Final hosts are foxes, dogs, raccoon dogs and cats, after ingestion of larval stages in intermediate hosts (mainly rodents).  Dogs should be prevented from having access to raw offal and carcases.  Pre-patent period is 28 days and patent period can be for several months.

Asymptomatic.

Morphology and size of proglottids on faecal samples.  Egg detection with flotation, sedimentation or combined techniques (not very sensitive and Taenia-type eggs cannot be differentiated morphologically).  Coproantigen detection enables detection of pre-patent infections 10 days p.i. with a sensitivity of more than 90% if more than 50 worms are present, lower if less than 50 worms are present.  PCR/sequencing allows species identification (from isolated eggs or proglottids).

Red foxes, raccoon dogs and rarely dogs and cats may excrete eggs of Echinococcus multilocularis in faeces.  The accidental oral consumption of E. multilocularis eggs causes alveolar echinococcosis in humans, which if untreated has potentially fatal consequences and this is therefore of major public health concern.  Infection with eggs results in the formation of cysts also in animals such as pigs, horses and dogs.

Portugal, Spain, South of France, Italy, Greece, Croatia, Bosnia, Czech Republic, Turkey, Hungary, Bulgaria and Romania.

Final hosts are dogs, cats and other carnivores.  Rarely occurs in cats.  L3 stage larvae are transmitted by mosquito vectors (intermediate host).  Cutaneous infection.  In dogs, pre-patent period is 4–6 months, patent period is several years.  In cats, pre-patent period is approximately 8 months.

Low worm burden often asymptomatic.  Infections with D.immitis may cause a severe and potentially fatal disease in dogs and cats.  First clinical manifestation 5–7 months after infection: loss of condition, dyspnoea, cough.  Chronic disease: cough, tachycardia, "Caval syndrome", tachypnoea.  See GL5: Control of Vector-borne Diseases in Dogs and Cats.

Detection of microfilaria earliest 6 months after infection in dogs.  For cats, detection of microfilaria from 8 months p.i. may be negative as levels can be very low.  Detection improved by concentration of microfilaria with Difil Test or Knott’s Test.  Microfilariae can be speciated using morphological, biochemical or molecular species identification in specialised laboratories only.   Circulating antigens are detected from 5 months after infection with a sensitivity around 90% and approximately 100% if one female worm or more are present, respectively.

D. immitis is a zoonotic parasite, however human infection is rare.

Spain, South of France, Italy, Greece, Croatia, Bosnia, Czech Republic, Turkey and Hungary.

Final hosts are dogs, cats and other carnivores.  L3 larvae are transmitted by mosquito vector (intermediate host).  Cutaneous infection. Pre-patent period is 27–34 weeks, patent period – several years.

Mostly asymptomatic, very rarely modules or other cutaneous lesions.

Requires 2–4 ml EDTA blood.  Detection of microfilariae from 6.2 months post infection.  Detection improved by concentration of microfilariae with Difil Test or Knott’s Test.  Microfilariae can be speciated using morphological, biochemical or molecular species identification by the use of specialised laboratories.

Yes, usually manifests itself in humans as a single subcutaneous nodule or a single worm in the conjuctiva.

Italy, France (Dordogne) and southern Switzerland.

Dogs and cats probably via a dipteran arthropod vector.  Pre-patent period about 3 weeks and patent period of months to years.

Blepharospasm and epiphora.

By detection of adult or larval stages from samples of the tear film from the surface of the conjunctiva.

Portugal, Spain, South of France, Italy, Greece, Croatia, Bosnia, Czech Republic, Turkey, Hungary, Bulgaria and Romania.

Final hosts are dogs, cats and other carnivores.  Rarely occurs in cats.  L3 stage larvae are transmitted by mosquito vectors (intermediate host).  Cutaneous infection.  In dogs, pre-patent period is 4–6 months, patent period is several years.  In cats, pre-patent period is approximately 8 months.

Low worm burden often asymptomatic.  Infections with D.immitis may cause a severe and potentially fatal disease in dogs and cats.  First clinical manifestation 5–7 months after infection: loss of condition, dyspnoea, cough.  Chronic disease: cough, tachycardia, "Caval syndrome", tachypnoea.  See GL5: Control of Vector-borne Diseases in Dogs and Cats.

Detection of microfilaria earliest 6 months after infection in dogs.  For cats, detection of microfilaria from 8 months p.i. may be negative as levels can be very low.  Detection improved by concentration of microfilaria with Difil Test or Knott’s Test.  Microfilariae can be speciated using morphological, biochemical or molecular species identification in specialised laboratories only.   Circulating antigens are detected from 5 months after infection with a sensitivity around 90% and approximately 100% if one female worm or more are present, respectively.

D. immitis is a zoonotic parasite, however human infection is rare.

Spain, South of France, Italy, Greece, Croatia, Bosnia, Czech Republic, Turkey and Hungary.

Final hosts are dogs, cats and other carnivores.  L3 larvae are transmitted by mosquito vector (intermediate host).  Cutaneous infection. Pre-patent period is 27–34 weeks, patent period – several years.

Mostly asymptomatic, very rarely modules or other cutaneous lesions.

Requires 2–4 ml EDTA blood.  Detection of microfilariae from 6.2 months post infection.  Detection improved by concentration of microfilariae with Difil Test or Knott’s Test.  Microfilariae can be speciated using morphological, biochemical or molecular species identification by the use of specialised laboratories.

Yes, usually manifests itself in humans as a single subcutaneous nodule or a single worm in the conjuctiva.

Italy, France (Dordogne) and southern Switzerland.

Dogs and cats probably via a dipteran arthropod vector.  Pre-patent period about 3 weeks and patent period of months to years.

Blepharospasm and epiphora.

By detection of adult or larval stages from samples of the tear film from the surface of the conjunctiva.

Everywhere in endemic foci.

Final hosts are foxes and dogs.  Infective larvae are ingested within molluscs or paratenic host.  Pre-patent period 40–49 days, patent period up to 5 years.

After an asymptomatic period, respiratory signs such as cough, tachypnoea and dyspnoea are most obvious.  Occasionally signs of coagulopathy (e.g. subcutaneous haematomas anaemia) and neurological signs are observed.  Sudden death can occur even in the absence of respiratory signs.

Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g fresh faeces using the Baermann method, or microscopic detection of larvae in bronchial lavage material.  A commercial serological test to detect circulating A. vasorum is now available.

Everywhere in Europe.

Final hosts are dogs and foxes and infection is orally from larvae within mollusc or paratenic host.  Pre-patent period is 3 weeks, patent period is up to 10 months.

Respiratory symptoms, coughing and possibly exercise intolerance.

Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g fresh faeces or bronchial lavage fluid by Baermann method or microscopic detection in bronchial lavage material.

Widespread in Europe.

Final hosts are dogs and rarely red foxes.  Intermediate hosts are domestic ruminants, primates and humans.

Asymptomatic in dogs.  Infections in cattle, sheep and pigs do not show clinical signs.

Difficult as the adult tapeworm segments are sparsely shed and small. Identification is based on size (2.0–3.0 mm), ovoid in shape with a single genital pore.

Yes, one or both lungs can be affected in the human intermediate host. If in the liver, several hydatids may give rise to gross abdominal distention. If a cyst ruptures, there is risk of death from anaphylaxis.

Everywhere in Europe.

Dogs, cats and foxes after ingestion of larval stages in the intermediate host (cysticercus or coenurus).  After a pre-patent period of 4–10 weeks and for a patent period from months to several years.

Asymptomatic except sometimes segments or proglottids are seen.

Egg detection by flotation of eggs from 3–5 g fresh or fixed faeces.  Proglottids in faeces grossly visible.  Taenia-type eggs in faeces (see Echinococcus for method of distinguishing Taenia-type eggs).

Everywhere in endemic foci.

Final hosts are foxes and dogs.  Infective larvae are ingested within molluscs or paratenic host.  Pre-patent period 40–49 days, patent period up to 5 years.

After an asymptomatic period, respiratory signs such as cough, tachypnoea and dyspnoea are most obvious.  Occasionally signs of coagulopathy (e.g. subcutaneous haematomas anaemia) and neurological signs are observed.  Sudden death can occur even in the absence of respiratory signs.

Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g fresh faeces using the Baermann method, or microscopic detection of larvae in bronchial lavage material.  A commercial serological test to detect circulating A. vasorum is now available.

Everywhere in Europe.

Final hosts are dogs and foxes and infection is orally from larvae within mollusc or paratenic host.  Pre-patent period is 3 weeks, patent period is up to 10 months.

Respiratory symptoms, coughing and possibly exercise intolerance.

Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g fresh faeces or bronchial lavage fluid by Baermann method or microscopic detection in bronchial lavage material.

Italy, France (Dordogne) and southern Switzerland.

Dogs and cats probably via a dipteran arthropod vector.  Pre-patent period about 3 weeks and patent period of months to years.

Blepharospasm and epiphora.

By detection of adult or larval stages from samples of the tear film from the surface of the conjunctiva.

Endemic in central and eastern Europe.

Final hosts are foxes, dogs, raccoon dogs and cats, after ingestion of larval stages in intermediate hosts (mainly rodents).  Dogs should be prevented from having access to raw offal and carcases.  Pre-patent period is 28 days and patent period can be for several months.

Asymptomatic.

Morphology and size of proglottids on faecal samples.  Egg detection with flotation, sedimentation or combined techniques (not very sensitive and Taenia-type eggs cannot be differentiated morphologically).  Coproantigen detection enables detection of pre-patent infections 10 days p.i. with a sensitivity of more than 90% if more than 50 worms are present, lower if less than 50 worms are present.  PCR/sequencing allows species identification (from isolated eggs or proglottids).

Red foxes, raccoon dogs and rarely dogs and cats may excrete eggs of Echinococcus multilocularis in faeces.  The accidental oral consumption of E. multilocularis eggs causes alveolar echinococcosis in humans, which if untreated has potentially fatal consequences and this is therefore of major public health concern.  Infection with eggs results in the formation of cysts also in animals such as pigs, horses and dogs.

Everywhere in Europe.

Final hosts are dogs and foxes and the route of infection via ingestion of embryonated eggs from soil or on fur.  Larvae in milk or paratenic hosts.  In utero from dam.  Pre-patent period is variable, typically 21 days after prenatal infection; 27–35 days after lactogenic infection; 32–39 days after ingestion of eggs.  Patent period 4–6 months except where immunity intervenes for example in pups.

Low burden asymptomatic, higher burden may appear as cachexia and pot-bellied appearance in pups.  Heavy infection can cause intestinal blockage or intussusception.  A low burden in older animals is unlikely to cause clinical signs.

Egg detection by flotation from 3–5 g fresh or fixed faeces.  Coproantigen assays detect infections from immature and adult worms, and are not linked to egg production.  This enables identification of infections during pre-patent periods and alleviates challenges of intermittent egg shedding associated with microscopic examinations.

Yes, children at greatest risk through ingesting soil bearing contaminated eggs.

Everywhere in endemic foci.

Final hosts are foxes and dogs.  Infective larvae are ingested within molluscs or paratenic host.  Pre-patent period 40–49 days, patent period up to 5 years.

After an asymptomatic period, respiratory signs such as cough, tachypnoea and dyspnoea are most obvious.  Occasionally signs of coagulopathy (e.g. subcutaneous haematomas anaemia) and neurological signs are observed.  Sudden death can occur even in the absence of respiratory signs.

Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g fresh faeces using the Baermann method, or microscopic detection of larvae in bronchial lavage material.  A commercial serological test to detect circulating A. vasorum is now available.

Everywhere in Europe.

Final hosts are dogs and foxes and infection is orally from larvae within mollusc or paratenic host.  Pre-patent period is 3 weeks, patent period is up to 10 months.

Respiratory symptoms, coughing and possibly exercise intolerance.

Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g fresh faeces or bronchial lavage fluid by Baermann method or microscopic detection in bronchial lavage material.

Widespread in Europe.

Final hosts are dogs and rarely red foxes.  Intermediate hosts are domestic ruminants, primates and humans.

Asymptomatic in dogs.  Infections in cattle, sheep and pigs do not show clinical signs.

Difficult as the adult tapeworm segments are sparsely shed and small. Identification is based on size (2.0–3.0 mm), ovoid in shape with a single genital pore.

Yes, one or both lungs can be affected in the human intermediate host. If in the liver, several hydatids may give rise to gross abdominal distention. If a cyst ruptures, there is risk of death from anaphylaxis.

Widespread in Europe.

Final hosts are dogs and rarely red foxes.  Intermediate hosts are domestic ruminants, primates and humans.

Asymptomatic in dogs.  Infections in cattle, sheep and pigs do not show clinical signs.

Difficult as the adult tapeworm segments are sparsely shed and small. Identification is based on size (2.0–3.0 mm), ovoid in shape with a single genital pore.

Yes, one or both lungs can be affected in the human intermediate host. If in the liver, several hydatids may give rise to gross abdominal distention. If a cyst ruptures, there is risk of death from anaphylaxis.

Everywhere in endemic foci.

Final hosts are foxes and dogs.  Infective larvae are ingested within molluscs or paratenic host.  Pre-patent period 40–49 days, patent period up to 5 years.

After an asymptomatic period, respiratory signs such as cough, tachypnoea and dyspnoea are most obvious.  Occasionally signs of coagulopathy (e.g. subcutaneous haematomas anaemia) and neurological signs are observed.  Sudden death can occur even in the absence of respiratory signs.

Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g fresh faeces using the Baermann method, or microscopic detection of larvae in bronchial lavage material.  A commercial serological test to detect circulating A. vasorum is now available.

Everywhere in Europe.

Final hosts are dogs and foxes and infection is orally from larvae within mollusc or paratenic host.  Pre-patent period is 3 weeks, patent period is up to 10 months.

Respiratory symptoms, coughing and possibly exercise intolerance.

Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g fresh faeces or bronchial lavage fluid by Baermann method or microscopic detection in bronchial lavage material.

Widespread in Europe.

Final hosts are dogs and rarely red foxes.  Intermediate hosts are domestic ruminants, primates and humans.

Asymptomatic in dogs.  Infections in cattle, sheep and pigs do not show clinical signs.

Difficult as the adult tapeworm segments are sparsely shed and small. Identification is based on size (2.0–3.0 mm), ovoid in shape with a single genital pore.

Yes, one or both lungs can be affected in the human intermediate host. If in the liver, several hydatids may give rise to gross abdominal distention. If a cyst ruptures, there is risk of death from anaphylaxis.

Widespread in Europe.

Final hosts are dogs and rarely red foxes.  Intermediate hosts are domestic ruminants, primates and humans.

Asymptomatic in dogs.  Infections in cattle, sheep and pigs do not show clinical signs.

Difficult as the adult tapeworm segments are sparsely shed and small. Identification is based on size (2.0–3.0 mm), ovoid in shape with a single genital pore.

Yes, one or both lungs can be affected in the human intermediate host. If in the liver, several hydatids may give rise to gross abdominal distention. If a cyst ruptures, there is risk of death from anaphylaxis.

Widespread in Europe.

Final hosts are dogs and rarely red foxes.  Intermediate hosts are domestic ruminants, primates and humans.

Asymptomatic in dogs.  Infections in cattle, sheep and pigs do not show clinical signs.

Difficult as the adult tapeworm segments are sparsely shed and small. Identification is based on size (2.0–3.0 mm), ovoid in shape with a single genital pore.

Yes, one or both lungs can be affected in the human intermediate host. If in the liver, several hydatids may give rise to gross abdominal distention. If a cyst ruptures, there is risk of death from anaphylaxis.

Widespread in Europe.

Final hosts are dogs and rarely red foxes.  Intermediate hosts are domestic ruminants, primates and humans.

Asymptomatic in dogs.  Infections in cattle, sheep and pigs do not show clinical signs.

Difficult as the adult tapeworm segments are sparsely shed and small. Identification is based on size (2.0–3.0 mm), ovoid in shape with a single genital pore.

Yes, one or both lungs can be affected in the human intermediate host. If in the liver, several hydatids may give rise to gross abdominal distention. If a cyst ruptures, there is risk of death from anaphylaxis.

Portugal, Spain, South of France, Italy, Greece, Croatia, Bosnia, Czech Republic, Turkey, Hungary, Bulgaria and Romania.

Final hosts are dogs, cats and other carnivores.  Rarely occurs in cats.  L3 stage larvae are transmitted by mosquito vectors (intermediate host).  Cutaneous infection.  In dogs, pre-patent period is 4–6 months, patent period is several years.  In cats, pre-patent period is approximately 8 months.

Low worm burden often asymptomatic.  Infections with D.immitis may cause a severe and potentially fatal disease in dogs and cats.  First clinical manifestation 5–7 months after infection: loss of condition, dyspnoea, cough.  Chronic disease: cough, tachycardia, "Caval syndrome", tachypnoea.  See GL5: Control of Vector-borne Diseases in Dogs and Cats.

Detection of microfilaria earliest 6 months after infection in dogs.  For cats, detection of microfilaria from 8 months p.i. may be negative as levels can be very low.  Detection improved by concentration of microfilaria with Difil Test or Knott’s Test.  Microfilariae can be speciated using morphological, biochemical or molecular species identification in specialised laboratories only.   Circulating antigens are detected from 5 months after infection with a sensitivity around 90% and approximately 100% if one female worm or more are present, respectively.

D. immitis is a zoonotic parasite, however human infection is rare.

Spain, South of France, Italy, Greece, Croatia, Bosnia, Czech Republic, Turkey and Hungary.

Final hosts are dogs, cats and other carnivores.  L3 larvae are transmitted by mosquito vector (intermediate host).  Cutaneous infection. Pre-patent period is 27–34 weeks, patent period – several years.

Mostly asymptomatic, very rarely modules or other cutaneous lesions.

Requires 2–4 ml EDTA blood.  Detection of microfilariae from 6.2 months post infection.  Detection improved by concentration of microfilariae with Difil Test or Knott’s Test.  Microfilariae can be speciated using morphological, biochemical or molecular species identification by the use of specialised laboratories.

Yes, usually manifests itself in humans as a single subcutaneous nodule or a single worm in the conjuctiva.

Endemic in central and eastern Europe.

Final hosts are foxes, dogs, raccoon dogs and cats, after ingestion of larval stages in intermediate hosts (mainly rodents).  Dogs should be prevented from having access to raw offal and carcases.  Pre-patent period is 28 days and patent period can be for several months.

Asymptomatic.

Morphology and size of proglottids on faecal samples.  Egg detection with flotation, sedimentation or combined techniques (not very sensitive and Taenia-type eggs cannot be differentiated morphologically).  Coproantigen detection enables detection of pre-patent infections 10 days p.i. with a sensitivity of more than 90% if more than 50 worms are present, lower if less than 50 worms are present.  PCR/sequencing allows species identification (from isolated eggs or proglottids).

Red foxes, raccoon dogs and rarely dogs and cats may excrete eggs of Echinococcus multilocularis in faeces.  The accidental oral consumption of E. multilocularis eggs causes alveolar echinococcosis in humans, which if untreated has potentially fatal consequences and this is therefore of major public health concern.  Infection with eggs results in the formation of cysts also in animals such as pigs, horses and dogs.

Portugal, Spain, South of France, Italy, Greece, Croatia, Bosnia, Czech Republic, Turkey, Hungary, Bulgaria and Romania.

Final hosts are dogs, cats and other carnivores.  Rarely occurs in cats.  L3 stage larvae are transmitted by mosquito vectors (intermediate host).  Cutaneous infection.  In dogs, pre-patent period is 4–6 months, patent period is several years.  In cats, pre-patent period is approximately 8 months.

Low worm burden often asymptomatic.  Infections with D.immitis may cause a severe and potentially fatal disease in dogs and cats.  First clinical manifestation 5–7 months after infection: loss of condition, dyspnoea, cough.  Chronic disease: cough, tachycardia, "Caval syndrome", tachypnoea.  See GL5: Control of Vector-borne Diseases in Dogs and Cats.

Detection of microfilaria earliest 6 months after infection in dogs.  For cats, detection of microfilaria from 8 months p.i. may be negative as levels can be very low.  Detection improved by concentration of microfilaria with Difil Test or Knott’s Test.  Microfilariae can be speciated using morphological, biochemical or molecular species identification in specialised laboratories only.   Circulating antigens are detected from 5 months after infection with a sensitivity around 90% and approximately 100% if one female worm or more are present, respectively.

D. immitis is a zoonotic parasite, however human infection is rare.

Spain, South of France, Italy, Greece, Croatia, Bosnia, Czech Republic, Turkey and Hungary.

Final hosts are dogs, cats and other carnivores.  L3 larvae are transmitted by mosquito vector (intermediate host).  Cutaneous infection. Pre-patent period is 27–34 weeks, patent period – several years.

Mostly asymptomatic, very rarely modules or other cutaneous lesions.

Requires 2–4 ml EDTA blood.  Detection of microfilariae from 6.2 months post infection.  Detection improved by concentration of microfilariae with Difil Test or Knott’s Test.  Microfilariae can be speciated using morphological, biochemical or molecular species identification by the use of specialised laboratories.

Yes, usually manifests itself in humans as a single subcutaneous nodule or a single worm in the conjuctiva.

Widespread in Europe.

Final hosts are dogs and rarely red foxes.  Intermediate hosts are domestic ruminants, primates and humans.

Asymptomatic in dogs.  Infections in cattle, sheep and pigs do not show clinical signs.

Difficult as the adult tapeworm segments are sparsely shed and small. Identification is based on size (2.0–3.0 mm), ovoid in shape with a single genital pore.

Yes, one or both lungs can be affected in the human intermediate host. If in the liver, several hydatids may give rise to gross abdominal distention. If a cyst ruptures, there is risk of death from anaphylaxis.

Portugal, Spain, South of France, Italy, Greece, Croatia, Bosnia, Czech Republic, Turkey, Hungary, Bulgaria and Romania.

Final hosts are dogs, cats and other carnivores.  Rarely occurs in cats.  L3 stage larvae are transmitted by mosquito vectors (intermediate host).  Cutaneous infection.  In dogs, pre-patent period is 4–6 months, patent period is several years.  In cats, pre-patent period is approximately 8 months.

Low worm burden often asymptomatic.  Infections with D.immitis may cause a severe and potentially fatal disease in dogs and cats.  First clinical manifestation 5–7 months after infection: loss of condition, dyspnoea, cough.  Chronic disease: cough, tachycardia, "Caval syndrome", tachypnoea.  See GL5: Control of Vector-borne Diseases in Dogs and Cats.

Detection of microfilaria earliest 6 months after infection in dogs.  For cats, detection of microfilaria from 8 months p.i. may be negative as levels can be very low.  Detection improved by concentration of microfilaria with Difil Test or Knott’s Test.  Microfilariae can be speciated using morphological, biochemical or molecular species identification in specialised laboratories only.   Circulating antigens are detected from 5 months after infection with a sensitivity around 90% and approximately 100% if one female worm or more are present, respectively.

D. immitis is a zoonotic parasite, however human infection is rare.

Spain, South of France, Italy, Greece, Croatia, Bosnia, Czech Republic, Turkey and Hungary.

Final hosts are dogs, cats and other carnivores.  L3 larvae are transmitted by mosquito vector (intermediate host).  Cutaneous infection. Pre-patent period is 27–34 weeks, patent period – several years.

Mostly asymptomatic, very rarely modules or other cutaneous lesions.

Requires 2–4 ml EDTA blood.  Detection of microfilariae from 6.2 months post infection.  Detection improved by concentration of microfilariae with Difil Test or Knott’s Test.  Microfilariae can be speciated using morphological, biochemical or molecular species identification by the use of specialised laboratories.

Yes, usually manifests itself in humans as a single subcutaneous nodule or a single worm in the conjuctiva.

Endemic in central and eastern Europe.

Final hosts are foxes, dogs, raccoon dogs and cats, after ingestion of larval stages in intermediate hosts (mainly rodents).  Dogs should be prevented from having access to raw offal and carcases.  Pre-patent period is 28 days and patent period can be for several months.

Asymptomatic.

Morphology and size of proglottids on faecal samples.  Egg detection with flotation, sedimentation or combined techniques (not very sensitive and Taenia-type eggs cannot be differentiated morphologically).  Coproantigen detection enables detection of pre-patent infections 10 days p.i. with a sensitivity of more than 90% if more than 50 worms are present, lower if less than 50 worms are present.  PCR/sequencing allows species identification (from isolated eggs or proglottids).

Red foxes, raccoon dogs and rarely dogs and cats may excrete eggs of Echinococcus multilocularis in faeces.  The accidental oral consumption of E. multilocularis eggs causes alveolar echinococcosis in humans, which if untreated has potentially fatal consequences and this is therefore of major public health concern.  Infection with eggs results in the formation of cysts also in animals such as pigs, horses and dogs.

Everywhere in endemic foci.

Final hosts are foxes and dogs.  Infective larvae are ingested within molluscs or paratenic host.  Pre-patent period 40–49 days, patent period up to 5 years.

After an asymptomatic period, respiratory signs such as cough, tachypnoea and dyspnoea are most obvious.  Occasionally signs of coagulopathy (e.g. subcutaneous haematomas anaemia) and neurological signs are observed.  Sudden death can occur even in the absence of respiratory signs.

Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g fresh faeces using the Baermann method, or microscopic detection of larvae in bronchial lavage material.  A commercial serological test to detect circulating A. vasorum is now available.

Everywhere in Europe.

Final hosts are dogs and foxes and infection is orally from larvae within mollusc or paratenic host.  Pre-patent period is 3 weeks, patent period is up to 10 months.

Respiratory symptoms, coughing and possibly exercise intolerance.

Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g fresh faeces or bronchial lavage fluid by Baermann method or microscopic detection in bronchial lavage material.

Endemic in central and eastern Europe.

Final hosts are foxes, dogs, raccoon dogs and cats, after ingestion of larval stages in intermediate hosts (mainly rodents).  Dogs should be prevented from having access to raw offal and carcases.  Pre-patent period is 28 days and patent period can be for several months.

Asymptomatic.

Morphology and size of proglottids on faecal samples.  Egg detection with flotation, sedimentation or combined techniques (not very sensitive and Taenia-type eggs cannot be differentiated morphologically).  Coproantigen detection enables detection of pre-patent infections 10 days p.i. with a sensitivity of more than 90% if more than 50 worms are present, lower if less than 50 worms are present.  PCR/sequencing allows species identification (from isolated eggs or proglottids).

Red foxes, raccoon dogs and rarely dogs and cats may excrete eggs of Echinococcus multilocularis in faeces.  The accidental oral consumption of E. multilocularis eggs causes alveolar echinococcosis in humans, which if untreated has potentially fatal consequences and this is therefore of major public health concern.  Infection with eggs results in the formation of cysts also in animals such as pigs, horses and dogs.

Endemic in central and eastern Europe.

Final hosts are foxes, dogs, raccoon dogs and cats, after ingestion of larval stages in intermediate hosts (mainly rodents).  Dogs should be prevented from having access to raw offal and carcases.  Pre-patent period is 28 days and patent period can be for several months.

Asymptomatic.

Morphology and size of proglottids on faecal samples.  Egg detection with flotation, sedimentation or combined techniques (not very sensitive and Taenia-type eggs cannot be differentiated morphologically).  Coproantigen detection enables detection of pre-patent infections 10 days p.i. with a sensitivity of more than 90% if more than 50 worms are present, lower if less than 50 worms are present.  PCR/sequencing allows species identification (from isolated eggs or proglottids).

Red foxes, raccoon dogs and rarely dogs and cats may excrete eggs of Echinococcus multilocularis in faeces.  The accidental oral consumption of E. multilocularis eggs causes alveolar echinococcosis in humans, which if untreated has potentially fatal consequences and this is therefore of major public health concern.  Infection with eggs results in the formation of cysts also in animals such as pigs, horses and dogs.

Widespread in Europe.

Final hosts are dogs and rarely red foxes.  Intermediate hosts are domestic ruminants, primates and humans.

Asymptomatic in dogs.  Infections in cattle, sheep and pigs do not show clinical signs.

Difficult as the adult tapeworm segments are sparsely shed and small. Identification is based on size (2.0–3.0 mm), ovoid in shape with a single genital pore.

Yes, one or both lungs can be affected in the human intermediate host. If in the liver, several hydatids may give rise to gross abdominal distention. If a cyst ruptures, there is risk of death from anaphylaxis.

Endemic in central and eastern Europe.

Final hosts are foxes, dogs, raccoon dogs and cats, after ingestion of larval stages in intermediate hosts (mainly rodents).  Dogs should be prevented from having access to raw offal and carcases.  Pre-patent period is 28 days and patent period can be for several months.

Asymptomatic.

Morphology and size of proglottids on faecal samples.  Egg detection with flotation, sedimentation or combined techniques (not very sensitive and Taenia-type eggs cannot be differentiated morphologically).  Coproantigen detection enables detection of pre-patent infections 10 days p.i. with a sensitivity of more than 90% if more than 50 worms are present, lower if less than 50 worms are present.  PCR/sequencing allows species identification (from isolated eggs or proglottids).

Red foxes, raccoon dogs and rarely dogs and cats may excrete eggs of Echinococcus multilocularis in faeces.  The accidental oral consumption of E. multilocularis eggs causes alveolar echinococcosis in humans, which if untreated has potentially fatal consequences and this is therefore of major public health concern.  Infection with eggs results in the formation of cysts also in animals such as pigs, horses and dogs.

Portugal, Spain, South of France, Italy, Greece, Croatia, Bosnia, Czech Republic, Turkey, Hungary, Bulgaria and Romania.

Final hosts are dogs, cats and other carnivores.  Rarely occurs in cats.  L3 stage larvae are transmitted by mosquito vectors (intermediate host).  Cutaneous infection.  In dogs, pre-patent period is 4–6 months, patent period is several years.  In cats, pre-patent period is approximately 8 months.

Low worm burden often asymptomatic.  Infections with D.immitis may cause a severe and potentially fatal disease in dogs and cats.  First clinical manifestation 5–7 months after infection: loss of condition, dyspnoea, cough.  Chronic disease: cough, tachycardia, "Caval syndrome", tachypnoea.  See GL5: Control of Vector-borne Diseases in Dogs and Cats.

Detection of microfilaria earliest 6 months after infection in dogs.  For cats, detection of microfilaria from 8 months p.i. may be negative as levels can be very low.  Detection improved by concentration of microfilaria with Difil Test or Knott’s Test.  Microfilariae can be speciated using morphological, biochemical or molecular species identification in specialised laboratories only.   Circulating antigens are detected from 5 months after infection with a sensitivity around 90% and approximately 100% if one female worm or more are present, respectively.

D. immitis is a zoonotic parasite, however human infection is rare.

Spain, South of France, Italy, Greece, Croatia, Bosnia, Czech Republic, Turkey and Hungary.

Final hosts are dogs, cats and other carnivores.  L3 larvae are transmitted by mosquito vector (intermediate host).  Cutaneous infection. Pre-patent period is 27–34 weeks, patent period – several years.

Mostly asymptomatic, very rarely modules or other cutaneous lesions.

Requires 2–4 ml EDTA blood.  Detection of microfilariae from 6.2 months post infection.  Detection improved by concentration of microfilariae with Difil Test or Knott’s Test.  Microfilariae can be speciated using morphological, biochemical or molecular species identification by the use of specialised laboratories.

Yes, usually manifests itself in humans as a single subcutaneous nodule or a single worm in the conjuctiva.

Endemic in central and eastern Europe.

Final hosts are foxes, dogs, raccoon dogs and cats, after ingestion of larval stages in intermediate hosts (mainly rodents).  Dogs should be prevented from having access to raw offal and carcases.  Pre-patent period is 28 days and patent period can be for several months.

Asymptomatic.

Morphology and size of proglottids on faecal samples.  Egg detection with flotation, sedimentation or combined techniques (not very sensitive and Taenia-type eggs cannot be differentiated morphologically).  Coproantigen detection enables detection of pre-patent infections 10 days p.i. with a sensitivity of more than 90% if more than 50 worms are present, lower if less than 50 worms are present.  PCR/sequencing allows species identification (from isolated eggs or proglottids).

Red foxes, raccoon dogs and rarely dogs and cats may excrete eggs of Echinococcus multilocularis in faeces.  The accidental oral consumption of E. multilocularis eggs causes alveolar echinococcosis in humans, which if untreated has potentially fatal consequences and this is therefore of major public health concern.  Infection with eggs results in the formation of cysts also in animals such as pigs, horses and dogs.

Endemic in central and eastern Europe.

Final hosts are foxes, dogs, raccoon dogs and cats, after ingestion of larval stages in intermediate hosts (mainly rodents).  Dogs should be prevented from having access to raw offal and carcases.  Pre-patent period is 28 days and patent period can be for several months.

Asymptomatic.

Morphology and size of proglottids on faecal samples.  Egg detection with flotation, sedimentation or combined techniques (not very sensitive and Taenia-type eggs cannot be differentiated morphologically).  Coproantigen detection enables detection of pre-patent infections 10 days p.i. with a sensitivity of more than 90% if more than 50 worms are present, lower if less than 50 worms are present.  PCR/sequencing allows species identification (from isolated eggs or proglottids).

Red foxes, raccoon dogs and rarely dogs and cats may excrete eggs of Echinococcus multilocularis in faeces.  The accidental oral consumption of E. multilocularis eggs causes alveolar echinococcosis in humans, which if untreated has potentially fatal consequences and this is therefore of major public health concern.  Infection with eggs results in the formation of cysts also in animals such as pigs, horses and dogs.

Endemic in central and eastern Europe.

Final hosts are foxes, dogs, raccoon dogs and cats, after ingestion of larval stages in intermediate hosts (mainly rodents).  Dogs should be prevented from having access to raw offal and carcases.  Pre-patent period is 28 days and patent period can be for several months.

Asymptomatic.

Morphology and size of proglottids on faecal samples.  Egg detection with flotation, sedimentation or combined techniques (not very sensitive and Taenia-type eggs cannot be differentiated morphologically).  Coproantigen detection enables detection of pre-patent infections 10 days p.i. with a sensitivity of more than 90% if more than 50 worms are present, lower if less than 50 worms are present.  PCR/sequencing allows species identification (from isolated eggs or proglottids).

Red foxes, raccoon dogs and rarely dogs and cats may excrete eggs of Echinococcus multilocularis in faeces.  The accidental oral consumption of E. multilocularis eggs causes alveolar echinococcosis in humans, which if untreated has potentially fatal consequences and this is therefore of major public health concern.  Infection with eggs results in the formation of cysts also in animals such as pigs, horses and dogs.

Endemic in central and eastern Europe.

Final hosts are foxes, dogs, raccoon dogs and cats, after ingestion of larval stages in intermediate hosts (mainly rodents).  Dogs should be prevented from having access to raw offal and carcases.  Pre-patent period is 28 days and patent period can be for several months.

Asymptomatic.

Morphology and size of proglottids on faecal samples.  Egg detection with flotation, sedimentation or combined techniques (not very sensitive and Taenia-type eggs cannot be differentiated morphologically).  Coproantigen detection enables detection of pre-patent infections 10 days p.i. with a sensitivity of more than 90% if more than 50 worms are present, lower if less than 50 worms are present.  PCR/sequencing allows species identification (from isolated eggs or proglottids).

Red foxes, raccoon dogs and rarely dogs and cats may excrete eggs of Echinococcus multilocularis in faeces.  The accidental oral consumption of E. multilocularis eggs causes alveolar echinococcosis in humans, which if untreated has potentially fatal consequences and this is therefore of major public health concern.  Infection with eggs results in the formation of cysts also in animals such as pigs, horses and dogs.

Everywhere in endemic foci.

Final hosts are foxes and dogs.  Infective larvae are ingested within molluscs or paratenic host.  Pre-patent period 40–49 days, patent period up to 5 years.

After an asymptomatic period, respiratory signs such as cough, tachypnoea and dyspnoea are most obvious.  Occasionally signs of coagulopathy (e.g. subcutaneous haematomas anaemia) and neurological signs are observed.  Sudden death can occur even in the absence of respiratory signs.

Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g fresh faeces using the Baermann method, or microscopic detection of larvae in bronchial lavage material.  A commercial serological test to detect circulating A. vasorum is now available.

Everywhere in Europe.

Final hosts are dogs and foxes and infection is orally from larvae within mollusc or paratenic host.  Pre-patent period is 3 weeks, patent period is up to 10 months.

Respiratory symptoms, coughing and possibly exercise intolerance.

Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g fresh faeces or bronchial lavage fluid by Baermann method or microscopic detection in bronchial lavage material.

Endemic in central and eastern Europe.

Final hosts are foxes, dogs, raccoon dogs and cats, after ingestion of larval stages in intermediate hosts (mainly rodents).  Dogs should be prevented from having access to raw offal and carcases.  Pre-patent period is 28 days and patent period can be for several months.

Asymptomatic.

Morphology and size of proglottids on faecal samples.  Egg detection with flotation, sedimentation or combined techniques (not very sensitive and Taenia-type eggs cannot be differentiated morphologically).  Coproantigen detection enables detection of pre-patent infections 10 days p.i. with a sensitivity of more than 90% if more than 50 worms are present, lower if less than 50 worms are present.  PCR/sequencing allows species identification (from isolated eggs or proglottids).

Red foxes, raccoon dogs and rarely dogs and cats may excrete eggs of Echinococcus multilocularis in faeces.  The accidental oral consumption of E. multilocularis eggs causes alveolar echinococcosis in humans, which if untreated has potentially fatal consequences and this is therefore of major public health concern.  Infection with eggs results in the formation of cysts also in animals such as pigs, horses and dogs.

Everywhere in endemic foci.

Final hosts are foxes and dogs.  Infective larvae are ingested within molluscs or paratenic host.  Pre-patent period 40–49 days, patent period up to 5 years.

After an asymptomatic period, respiratory signs such as cough, tachypnoea and dyspnoea are most obvious.  Occasionally signs of coagulopathy (e.g. subcutaneous haematomas anaemia) and neurological signs are observed.  Sudden death can occur even in the absence of respiratory signs.

Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g fresh faeces using the Baermann method, or microscopic detection of larvae in bronchial lavage material.  A commercial serological test to detect circulating A. vasorum is now available.

Everywhere in Europe.

Final hosts are dogs and foxes and infection is orally from larvae within mollusc or paratenic host.  Pre-patent period is 3 weeks, patent period is up to 10 months.

Respiratory symptoms, coughing and possibly exercise intolerance.

Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g fresh faeces or bronchial lavage fluid by Baermann method or microscopic detection in bronchial lavage material.

Endemic in central and eastern Europe.

Final hosts are foxes, dogs, raccoon dogs and cats, after ingestion of larval stages in intermediate hosts (mainly rodents).  Dogs should be prevented from having access to raw offal and carcases.  Pre-patent period is 28 days and patent period can be for several months.

Asymptomatic.

Morphology and size of proglottids on faecal samples.  Egg detection with flotation, sedimentation or combined techniques (not very sensitive and Taenia-type eggs cannot be differentiated morphologically).  Coproantigen detection enables detection of pre-patent infections 10 days p.i. with a sensitivity of more than 90% if more than 50 worms are present, lower if less than 50 worms are present.  PCR/sequencing allows species identification (from isolated eggs or proglottids).

Red foxes, raccoon dogs and rarely dogs and cats may excrete eggs of Echinococcus multilocularis in faeces.  The accidental oral consumption of E. multilocularis eggs causes alveolar echinococcosis in humans, which if untreated has potentially fatal consequences and this is therefore of major public health concern.  Infection with eggs results in the formation of cysts also in animals such as pigs, horses and dogs.

Everywhere in endemic foci.

Final hosts are foxes and dogs.  Infective larvae are ingested within molluscs or paratenic host.  Pre-patent period 40–49 days, patent period up to 5 years.

After an asymptomatic period, respiratory signs such as cough, tachypnoea and dyspnoea are most obvious.  Occasionally signs of coagulopathy (e.g. subcutaneous haematomas anaemia) and neurological signs are observed.  Sudden death can occur even in the absence of respiratory signs.

Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g fresh faeces using the Baermann method, or microscopic detection of larvae in bronchial lavage material.  A commercial serological test to detect circulating A. vasorum is now available.

Everywhere in Europe.

Final hosts are dogs and foxes and infection is orally from larvae within mollusc or paratenic host.  Pre-patent period is 3 weeks, patent period is up to 10 months.

Respiratory symptoms, coughing and possibly exercise intolerance.

Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g fresh faeces or bronchial lavage fluid by Baermann method or microscopic detection in bronchial lavage material.

Everywhere in endemic foci.

Final hosts are foxes and dogs.  Infective larvae are ingested within molluscs or paratenic host.  Pre-patent period 40–49 days, patent period up to 5 years.

After an asymptomatic period, respiratory signs such as cough, tachypnoea and dyspnoea are most obvious.  Occasionally signs of coagulopathy (e.g. subcutaneous haematomas anaemia) and neurological signs are observed.  Sudden death can occur even in the absence of respiratory signs.

Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g fresh faeces using the Baermann method, or microscopic detection of larvae in bronchial lavage material.  A commercial serological test to detect circulating A. vasorum is now available.

Everywhere in endemic foci.

Final hosts are foxes and dogs.  Infective larvae are ingested within molluscs or paratenic host.  Pre-patent period 40–49 days, patent period up to 5 years.

After an asymptomatic period, respiratory signs such as cough, tachypnoea and dyspnoea are most obvious.  Occasionally signs of coagulopathy (e.g. subcutaneous haematomas anaemia) and neurological signs are observed.  Sudden death can occur even in the absence of respiratory signs.

Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g fresh faeces using the Baermann method, or microscopic detection of larvae in bronchial lavage material.  A commercial serological test to detect circulating A. vasorum is now available.

Endemic in central and eastern Europe.

Final hosts are foxes, dogs, raccoon dogs and cats, after ingestion of larval stages in intermediate hosts (mainly rodents).  Dogs should be prevented from having access to raw offal and carcases.  Pre-patent period is 28 days and patent period can be for several months.

Asymptomatic.

Morphology and size of proglottids on faecal samples.  Egg detection with flotation, sedimentation or combined techniques (not very sensitive and Taenia-type eggs cannot be differentiated morphologically).  Coproantigen detection enables detection of pre-patent infections 10 days p.i. with a sensitivity of more than 90% if more than 50 worms are present, lower if less than 50 worms are present.  PCR/sequencing allows species identification (from isolated eggs or proglottids).

Red foxes, raccoon dogs and rarely dogs and cats may excrete eggs of Echinococcus multilocularis in faeces.  The accidental oral consumption of E. multilocularis eggs causes alveolar echinococcosis in humans, which if untreated has potentially fatal consequences and this is therefore of major public health concern.  Infection with eggs results in the formation of cysts also in animals such as pigs, horses and dogs.

Spain, South of France, Italy, Greece, Croatia, Bosnia, Czech Republic, Turkey and Hungary.

Final hosts are dogs, cats and other carnivores.  L3 larvae are transmitted by mosquito vector (intermediate host).  Cutaneous infection. Pre-patent period is 27–34 weeks, patent period – several years.

Mostly asymptomatic, very rarely modules or other cutaneous lesions.

Requires 2–4 ml EDTA blood.  Detection of microfilariae from 6.2 months post infection.  Detection improved by concentration of microfilariae with Difil Test or Knott’s Test.  Microfilariae can be speciated using morphological, biochemical or molecular species identification by the use of specialised laboratories.

Yes, usually manifests itself in humans as a single subcutaneous nodule or a single worm in the conjuctiva.

Widespread in Europe.

Final hosts are dogs and rarely red foxes.  Intermediate hosts are domestic ruminants, primates and humans.

Asymptomatic in dogs.  Infections in cattle, sheep and pigs do not show clinical signs.

Difficult as the adult tapeworm segments are sparsely shed and small. Identification is based on size (2.0–3.0 mm), ovoid in shape with a single genital pore.

Yes, one or both lungs can be affected in the human intermediate host. If in the liver, several hydatids may give rise to gross abdominal distention. If a cyst ruptures, there is risk of death from anaphylaxis.

Widespread in Europe.

Final hosts are dogs and rarely red foxes.  Intermediate hosts are domestic ruminants, primates and humans.

Asymptomatic in dogs.  Infections in cattle, sheep and pigs do not show clinical signs.

Difficult as the adult tapeworm segments are sparsely shed and small. Identification is based on size (2.0–3.0 mm), ovoid in shape with a single genital pore.

Yes, one or both lungs can be affected in the human intermediate host. If in the liver, several hydatids may give rise to gross abdominal distention. If a cyst ruptures, there is risk of death from anaphylaxis.

Endemic in central and eastern Europe.

Final hosts are foxes, dogs, raccoon dogs and cats, after ingestion of larval stages in intermediate hosts (mainly rodents).  Dogs should be prevented from having access to raw offal and carcases.  Pre-patent period is 28 days and patent period can be for several months.

Asymptomatic.

Morphology and size of proglottids on faecal samples.  Egg detection with flotation, sedimentation or combined techniques (not very sensitive and Taenia-type eggs cannot be differentiated morphologically).  Coproantigen detection enables detection of pre-patent infections 10 days p.i. with a sensitivity of more than 90% if more than 50 worms are present, lower if less than 50 worms are present.  PCR/sequencing allows species identification (from isolated eggs or proglottids).

Red foxes, raccoon dogs and rarely dogs and cats may excrete eggs of Echinococcus multilocularis in faeces.  The accidental oral consumption of E. multilocularis eggs causes alveolar echinococcosis in humans, which if untreated has potentially fatal consequences and this is therefore of major public health concern.  Infection with eggs results in the formation of cysts also in animals such as pigs, horses and dogs.

Everywhere in endemic foci.

Final hosts are foxes and dogs.  Infective larvae are ingested within molluscs or paratenic host.  Pre-patent period 40–49 days, patent period up to 5 years.

After an asymptomatic period, respiratory signs such as cough, tachypnoea and dyspnoea are most obvious.  Occasionally signs of coagulopathy (e.g. subcutaneous haematomas anaemia) and neurological signs are observed.  Sudden death can occur even in the absence of respiratory signs.

Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g fresh faeces using the Baermann method, or microscopic detection of larvae in bronchial lavage material.  A commercial serological test to detect circulating A. vasorum is now available.

Endemic in central and eastern Europe.

Final hosts are foxes, dogs, raccoon dogs and cats, after ingestion of larval stages in intermediate hosts (mainly rodents).  Dogs should be prevented from having access to raw offal and carcases.  Pre-patent period is 28 days and patent period can be for several months.

Asymptomatic.

Morphology and size of proglottids on faecal samples.  Egg detection with flotation, sedimentation or combined techniques (not very sensitive and Taenia-type eggs cannot be differentiated morphologically).  Coproantigen detection enables detection of pre-patent infections 10 days p.i. with a sensitivity of more than 90% if more than 50 worms are present, lower if less than 50 worms are present.  PCR/sequencing allows species identification (from isolated eggs or proglottids).

Red foxes, raccoon dogs and rarely dogs and cats may excrete eggs of Echinococcus multilocularis in faeces.  The accidental oral consumption of E. multilocularis eggs causes alveolar echinococcosis in humans, which if untreated has potentially fatal consequences and this is therefore of major public health concern.  Infection with eggs results in the formation of cysts also in animals such as pigs, horses and dogs.

Everywhere in endemic foci.

Final hosts are foxes and dogs.  Infective larvae are ingested within molluscs or paratenic host.  Pre-patent period 40–49 days, patent period up to 5 years.

After an asymptomatic period, respiratory signs such as cough, tachypnoea and dyspnoea are most obvious.  Occasionally signs of coagulopathy (e.g. subcutaneous haematomas anaemia) and neurological signs are observed.  Sudden death can occur even in the absence of respiratory signs.

Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g fresh faeces using the Baermann method, or microscopic detection of larvae in bronchial lavage material.  A commercial serological test to detect circulating A. vasorum is now available.

Endemic in central and eastern Europe.

Final hosts are foxes, dogs, raccoon dogs and cats, after ingestion of larval stages in intermediate hosts (mainly rodents).  Dogs should be prevented from having access to raw offal and carcases.  Pre-patent period is 28 days and patent period can be for several months.

Asymptomatic.

Morphology and size of proglottids on faecal samples.  Egg detection with flotation, sedimentation or combined techniques (not very sensitive and Taenia-type eggs cannot be differentiated morphologically).  Coproantigen detection enables detection of pre-patent infections 10 days p.i. with a sensitivity of more than 90% if more than 50 worms are present, lower if less than 50 worms are present.  PCR/sequencing allows species identification (from isolated eggs or proglottids).

Red foxes, raccoon dogs and rarely dogs and cats may excrete eggs of Echinococcus multilocularis in faeces.  The accidental oral consumption of E. multilocularis eggs causes alveolar echinococcosis in humans, which if untreated has potentially fatal consequences and this is therefore of major public health concern.  Infection with eggs results in the formation of cysts also in animals such as pigs, horses and dogs.

Portugal, Spain, South of France, Italy, Greece, Croatia, Bosnia, Czech Republic, Turkey, Hungary, Bulgaria and Romania.

Final hosts are dogs, cats and other carnivores.  Rarely occurs in cats.  L3 stage larvae are transmitted by mosquito vectors (intermediate host).  Cutaneous infection.  In dogs, pre-patent period is 4–6 months, patent period is several years.  In cats, pre-patent period is approximately 8 months.

Low worm burden often asymptomatic.  Infections with D.immitis may cause a severe and potentially fatal disease in dogs and cats.  First clinical manifestation 5–7 months after infection: loss of condition, dyspnoea, cough.  Chronic disease: cough, tachycardia, "Caval syndrome", tachypnoea.  See GL5: Control of Vector-borne Diseases in Dogs and Cats.

Detection of microfilaria earliest 6 months after infection in dogs.  For cats, detection of microfilaria from 8 months p.i. may be negative as levels can be very low.  Detection improved by concentration of microfilaria with Difil Test or Knott’s Test.  Microfilariae can be speciated using morphological, biochemical or molecular species identification in specialised laboratories only.   Circulating antigens are detected from 5 months after infection with a sensitivity around 90% and approximately 100% if one female worm or more are present, respectively.

D. immitis is a zoonotic parasite, however human infection is rare.

Everywhere in endemic foci.

Final hosts are foxes and dogs.  Infective larvae are ingested within molluscs or paratenic host.  Pre-patent period 40–49 days, patent period up to 5 years.

After an asymptomatic period, respiratory signs such as cough, tachypnoea and dyspnoea are most obvious.  Occasionally signs of coagulopathy (e.g. subcutaneous haematomas anaemia) and neurological signs are observed.  Sudden death can occur even in the absence of respiratory signs.

Detection of live larvae from at least 4 g fresh faeces using the Baermann method, or microscopic detection of larvae in bronchial lavage material.  A commercial serological test to detect circulating A. vasorum is now available.