What is Echinococcus multilocularis?

• It’s a small tapeworm that infects wild canids such as, red foxes, coyotes, wolves, raccoon dogs, and domestic dogs and cats.

• The adult tapeworms infect the small intestine of the definitive host.

• The adult worms produce eggs in the feces of infected animals.

• The adult tapeworm is hard to see with the naked eye.

How do animals become infected?

• Animals typically become infected by predation by eating infected rodents.

• Infection can also occur by ingesting the infected eggs from the environment.

How is the infection diagnosed in dogs?

• Diagnosis starts with a thorough physical exam at a local veterinary clinic.

• Then, a fecal flotation looking for eggs, and confirmed through molecular testing.

Does Echinococcus multilocularis infect humans?

• Yes, a disease called alveolar echinococcosis develops.

• After accidental ingestion of the infective egg, the larvae develop in the liver and lung slowly overtime.

• Humans cannot infect other humans, therefore, we are considered dead-end hosts.

• Treatment is often unsuccessful and the disease is potentially fatal.

• For more information on human infections, visit CDC Echinococcosis Information.

How do you protect yourself from infection?

• ALWAYS wear gloves when handling specimens.

• ALWAYS wear gloves or use a plastic bag to pick up animal feces.

• WASH HANDS thoroughly using soap and water after handling specimens and feces.

Where are Echinococcus spp. found in North America?