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Fish- and shellfish--borne trematode infections in Canada
Summary
Food-borne trematode infections, common in Southeast Asia, pose risks globally due to food trade and consumption. Increased awareness is crucial for prevention and control of these parasitic infections.
Area of Science:
- Parasitology
- Public Health
- Food Safety
Background:
- Food-borne trematode infections are prevalent globally, especially in Southeast Asia.
- These infections are often underestimated by public health bodies and consumers.
- Poor sanitation and food preparation practices facilitate transmission in endemic areas.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the growing risk of food-borne trematode infections in non-endemic countries.
- To examine the role of international trade in disease spread.
- To emphasize the need for increased public and regulatory awareness.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on food-borne trematode epidemiology.
- Analysis of import data for fish and shellfish into Canada.
- Examination of current inspection protocols for imported food products.
Main Results:
- Imported fish and shellfish from endemic regions pose a risk due to potential presence of infective parasites.
- Current inspection methods may not detect all parasitic contamination.
- Infections in Canada are linked to immigrants and consumption of ethnic dishes.
Conclusions:
- International travel and ethnic food consumption increase infection risk for all populations.
- Native trematode species in North America also cause human illness.
- Enhanced awareness and control strategies are necessary to mitigate food-borne trematode risks.