Related Experiment Videos
Trichinellosis in Greece: a review
S T Sotiraki1, L V Athanasiou, C A Himonas
1Laboratory of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University, 54006 Thessaloniki, Greece. sotiraki@vet.auth.gr
Parasite (Paris, France)
|August 4, 2001
Summary
Trichinellosis, a parasitic infection, appears rare in Greece. Despite mandatory inspections, infected pigs are seldom found, with human cases infrequently reported, suggesting low public health concern.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Parasitology
- Public Health
Background:
- Trichinellosis is a significant global public health concern.
- Greece has mandatory meat inspection laws for Trichinella spiralis.
- Historical data suggests low prevalence in Greek swine and humans.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the current prevalence and public health significance of Trichinella spiralis in Greece.
- To review historical data on human and porcine trichinellosis in Greece.
Main Methods:
- Review of historical records on human and pig infections.
- Analysis of meat inspection data for pigs.
- Serological testing of pig serum samples.
Main Results:
- No Trichinella larvae found in slaughtered pigs in major cities since the late 1960s.
- Sporadic human cases reported, including an outbreak in Northern Greece (1982-1984).
- 1.07% of pig serum samples from Northern Greece showed specific antibodies.
Conclusions:
- Trichinellosis is considered rare in Greece, posing minimal risk to the pig industry and public health.
- Sporadic human infections and localized outbreaks indicate continued, albeit low, transmission potential.
- Ongoing surveillance is recommended to monitor for potential resurgence.