Alternative control measures for cysticercosis

Abstract

Seroepidemiological studies have demonstrated that the presence of the tapeworm carrier in the household or in the close environment is the main risk factor associated to human and swine cysticercosis. Intervention measures evaluated are: 1) Mass treatment against the adult parasite offered to 4695 people in 2 rural communities of Mexico descreased taeniosis. 2) A health education program developed on the basis of the knowledge of the community regarding cysticercosis and taeniosis showed that 4 years later no pigs with cysticercosis were identified in the community. 3) A study done in a community showed that there was no swine cysticercosis since all pigs were restrained and the community had basic hygiene and sanitary conditions. 4)Vaccination of pigs with recombinant T. solium oncosphere proteins prevented the establishment of cysticerci with 93% efficacy.