Strongyloidiasis in high-income countries: Taiwan's data illuminate a global blind spot
Strongyloidiasis remains neglected despite its lethal potential in immunocompromised hosts. Recent Taiwanese data reveal a prevalence of 1.9-4.8 % among at-risk cohorts, challenging assumptions that strongyloidiasis is rare in high-income countries (HICs). This commentary highlights three key implications: (i) systematic screening for elderly and immunosuppressed patients, (ii) integration into One Health surveillance frameworks recognizing zoonotic cycles, and (iii) economic evaluations to define cost-effective screening strategies. Addressing this silent infection is urgent amid expanding migration and immunosuppressive therapy use. Ignoring strongyloidiasis risks preventable morbidity, mortality, and rising healthcare costs in ageing HIC populations.
Authors
- Natthawut Charoenphon (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4260-5038)
- Khristine L. Sandoval (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8273-7265)
- Nathkapach Kaewpitoon Rattanapitoon (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2806-2129)
- Schawanya Kaewpitoon Rattanapitoon (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1615-0524)
Institutions
- National University (PH)
- Maharat Nakhon Ratchasima Hospital (TH)
- Nakhon Ratchasima Rajabhat University (TH)
- City University of Pasay (PH)
- Naresuan University (TH)
Publication Details
- Journal
- Travel Medicine and Infectious Disease
- Published
- 2025-09-01
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tmaid.2025.102909
- Primary Topic
- Parasites and Host Interactions
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.00