Current status of food-borne parasitic zoonoses in Korea

In Korea meat from various mammals, reptiles, amphibians, fish, and crustaceans serves as host for approximately 25 species of parasites. These food-borne parasitic zoonoses are important public health problems; they are of concern for the live stock and food industry and for farmers and fisherman. Traditionally, Koreans have been vegetable and fish eating people, but eating habits are changing to include the eating of meat. Dogs, cats and other pets are finding places in the home and these animals become involved in zoonotic diseases. Consequently, the prevalence of zoonotic parasitoses is increasing in Korea. There are increasing reports of cryptosporidiosis and trichinosis in the country associated with changing cultural habits in the Korean people.