Evidence of new endemic foci of the foodborne helminths Angiostrongylus spp. in rats in selected communities in the Philippines

Our study revealed a high prevalence of Angiostrongylus spp. among rats from selected communities in the Philippines and identified new endemic sites, showing that the distribution of the parasite is wider than previously appreciated. Furthermore, two species were identified, which provides evidence of diverse Angiostrongylus species in the country. However, further studies are needed to investigate the pathogenicity of A. malaysiensis. Evidence of Angiostrongylus spp. in rats and the habit of eating raw or improperly prepared food in the surveyed communities may imply unseen transmission of Angiostrongylus spp. to humans. This highlights the need to establish the public health importance of angiostrongyliasis in the country starting with a surveillance scheme for this parasite.