T. solium cysticercosis is a disease of pigs and humans populations considered endemic in many developing countries of Latin America, Africa and South East Asia having serious impact on public health and agriculture. An in-depth comparative analysis of literature on disease situation and predisposing factors in selected countries known to be at the interface of poverty-emerging livestock systems-zoonoses and with a growing small holder pig industry was conducted. Transmission dynamics, methods of diagnosis and employed control strategies of T. solium infection in pig and human populations in these countries are also discussed. Limited knowledge on porcine cysticercosis by various stakeholders expected to be key players in its control has undermined efforts for eliminating this potentially eradicable condition. Poor pig production practices, poor hygiene and sanitation habits have also been important in maintenance of the T. solium life-cycle. The major gaps identified in this review include scanty current information on porcine cysticercosis prevalence in pigs with hardly any reports on the condition in humans in most developing countries. Factors affecting pattern of the infection and how they interact at the different levels of the pig value chain have not been exhaustively studied. Information on socioeconomic impact is inadequate and not current.
Key words: Cysticercosis, Taenia solium, Eradication, Risk factors, Developing countries, zoonotic
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