PubMed · 7257161
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J J Robinson. 1981-02-07. Lamb survival.. https://doi.org/10.1136/vr.108.6.130
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Trichinella species are widely distributed throughout the world and are found in a large number of carnivorous animals, humans and incidental hosts. The data presented in this review show that Trichinella infection has been reported in both humans and animals in Mexico, Argentina and Chile since the end of the 19th century, and more recently in Bolivia. This parasitic infection is still a public health problem in countries such as Argentina and Chile. Although efforts have focused on the control and prevention of trichinellosis in these countries, there were still human cases and outbreaks of trichinellosis reported. Diagnosis of infection in animals such as pigs still includes, in many endemic areas, the use of trichinoscopy. In Argentina, however, artificial digestion has been recently introduced in slaughterhouses to detect Trichinella infection in pigs. In some endemic areas in Mexico, the use of serological assays for human trichinellosis and pig infections have resulted in improved detection. Most of the outbreaks of human trichinellosis in Mexico, Argentina and Chile have occurred as a result of the consumption of undercooked pork or pork products from animals raised under poor hygienic conditions and which are clandestinely slaughtered. In several studies, rats, dogs and cats have been found to be infected with Trichinella and may be considered a risk for transmission of the infection to pigs or other animals intended for human consumption. Another potential source of transmission of Trichinella to humans is horsemeat; however, information related to horse trichinellosis in Latin-American countries is scarce. In most cases the etiological agent of human trichinellosis in Central and South America has been reported to be Trichinella spiralis; however, only in a few cases has the parasite species been properly identified. Based on the reports available, it is clear that there is a need to carry out better controlled epidemiological studies to determine the true prevalence of the infection in this region of the world. Also, more sensitive methods of diagnosis and improvements in conditions for pig production as well as better sanitary inspection systems, are needed for controlling and preventing transmission of trichinellosis in these countries.
The prevention of human trichinellosis by proper meat inspection is a classic example of successful veterinary public health measures. The microscopic methods which have been used for more than a century to test pigs for trichinae were intended to prevent human disease. However, the value of these relatively insensitive direct detection methods, including trichinoscopy and pooled sample digestion, was debated as soon as more sensitive indirect (serological) methods became available. Two issues related to testing were discussed. First, should public health authorities endeavour to prevent all infections of humans rather than simply prevent the occurrence of disease, and second, would epidemiological surveillance and monitoring of the pig population on farms not provide a better control system to prevent human infection. This latter issue is of particular importance for those countries in the world where human trichinellosis acquired from farmed animals is absent and examination of pigs at the abattoir only results in negative findings. In countries where domestic pig infections are virtually non-existent, monitoring of Trichinella infection in wildlife could also contribute to understanding the infection pressure from nature to livestock. Trichinella-free pig farming is a feasible option for controlling this zoonosis, even in endemic areas. This approach provides an opportunity to combine good veterinary practice, in order to prevent animal diseases, with the prevention of Trichinella infection. All animals with access to the environment, or animals which are fed with potentially Trichinella-infected feed (swill, carcasses) will always constitute a public health threat, and must be inspected individually at slaughter (swine, horses, wild boars). Finally, it is important to recognize that trichinellosis is a world-wide problem that needs continuous public health attention. If no control system exists, for whatever reason, the public should be educated not to consume improperly cooked meat.
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