[The incidence of Dicrocoelium dendriticum in Emmental].

The study explores the prevalence of the Dicrocoelium dendriticum infection in various animals in the Emmental region. The research implies that the type of stable used significantly influences the likelihood of infection, and suggests regular deworming as a potential preventive measure.

Research Scope and Methodology

• The investigated population in this study consists of 211 bovines, 170 equines, 20 ovines, 46 caprines, and 23 rabbits across 119 farms in Emmental.
• The researchers also analyzed laboratory diagnostic data from 2,840 animals from the same area.
• The extent of the investigation encompassed assessing differing rates of infection among various animal species.

Findings on Infection Rates and Risk Factors

• The study recorded varying degrees of infection among the different species: 46% in bovines, 12% in equines, 30% in ovines, 48% in caprines, and 9% in rabbits.
• Among the baseline epidemiological data examined, the type of stable used emerged as a significant risk factor — bovines kept in modern free-ranging stables had a lower risk of contracting the D. dendriticum infection than those kept in traditional tie stalls.

Proposed Preventive Measures and Considerations

• The researchers suggest regular deworming of pasturing animals of all ages as a potential solution to reduce the incidence of dicrocoeliosis caused by D. dendriticum.
• The paper recommends therapeutic deworming particularly after pasturing in autumn or before housing the animals in the winter season. In spring, only previously pastured animals are to be treated before they are let out to pasture again.
• An economic analysis comparing the costs of treatment and the potential costs of damage should precede the implementation of a strategic campaign against the parasite. Furthermore, animal welfare aspects must be taken into account in the process.

Data from Laboratory Diagnostics

• Findings from the lab diagnostic data presented infection rates similar to those found in the field study, though the rates were slightly higher: 60% among bovines, 24% in equines, 26% in ovines, 31% in caprines, and 32% in rabbits.
• Atypical hosts such as dogs and cats exhibited low infection rates (3% and 1% respectively), indicating that the infection in these species likely results from consuming infected livers or ruminant feces.