Endoparasites of European hedgehogs (Erinaceus europaeus) in Germany and their zoonotic potential: proposed Capillaria ovoreticulata genetically identified as Capillaria putorii

The hedgehogs showed high infection rates with pulmonary and gastrointestinal helminths. Molecular analysis clarified the species distribution of the gastrointestinal Capillaria, consisting of C. erinacei and C. putorii, disproving the existence of the previously described Capillaria ovoreticulata. Furthermore, molecular typing of Cryptosporidium and Giardia spp. revealed zoonotic subtypes and (sub)assemblages. In addition, C. aerophila and H. nana may infect humans. Therefore, precautionary measures should be taken when handling hedgehogs to mitigate the zoonotic risk.