Current status of cystic echinococcosis in West Africa: a silent zoonotic risk in humans and animals

Cystic echinococcosis (CE) is a zoonotic disease caused by the larval stages of the cestode Echinococcus granulosus sensu lato (s.l.). The spread of CE results in significant economic and health damage to endemic regions. Despite its importance, there is a paucity of information regarding CE in West Africa. However, case reports from West African immigrants and refugees suggest the potential disease risk for humans in the region. Research on the prevalence of CE in livestock is also limited, with the figures showing considerable variation by year and location. Genetic studies of parasite samples in Nigeria, Mali, Mauritania, and among immigrants in Europe have predominantly identified the G6 and G6/7 genotypes of E. canadensis, which mainly infect camels. The G1 genotype was also identified in camels in Nigeria and immigrants from West Africa. As the intermediate hosts, camels are the major factor contributing to CE in West Africa. Furthermore, the infection rate in dogs, the definitive host, is 0.5-12.3% in the study area. Notably, the life cycle of the parasite is sustained by stray dogs that interact with animal carcasses and improper slaughterhouse waste disposal. Echinococcus is present in humans and animals in West Africa. It is critically important to enhance veterinary training and public health education, as well as maintain surveillance systems, to prevent human CE cases and economic damage in West Africa.