New strategy for controlling human cysticercosis

Abstract

Several epidemiological and intervention studies have been performed in Mexico in order to evaluate control strategies against Taenia solium cysticercosis. Epidemiological questionnaires and immunodiagnostic assays indicate that the main risk factor for acquiring cysticercosis is the tapeworm carrier. Two control strategies were carried out in three rural communities. Atotonilco received mass taeniacidal treatment with praziquantel (5mg/kg, single dose), Chalcatzingo received health education and Tetelilla, both interventions. Data were obtained from 98% of inhabitants. Treatment reduced taeniosis in 56-67% instead of the 95% expected and a case of neurocysticercosis was exacerbated, without education; swine cysticercosis had no significant changes, while where health education was provided 50-100% reduction of swine cysticercosis and significant changes in knowledge and some practices were seen. A new strategy is proposed.