The development of new foci of echinococcosis in northern Israel: prevalence in domestic animals

In a survey carried out in 1991-1992 in the town of Yirka in Northern Israel, 49 dogs were examined for Echinococcus granulosus infection and abattoir data, based on organs condemned for the presence of parasites, was collected. The presence of E. granulosus by arecoline test was demonstrated in 7 (14.2%) of the dogs examined, but not parasites were found in the intestines of five stray dogs shot in the area. A survey of sheep slaughtered in the local abattoir during a one-month period revealed Echinococcus cysts in 10% of the 255 animals examined. No Echinococcus parasites were detected in 21 dogs examined 3 months after the initiation of praziquantel treatment. Echinococcosis seems to be a very serious public health problem in Israel and a control programme needs to be given a high priority.