A scoping review on control strategies forEchinococcus granulosus sensu lato
Authors: De la Cruz-Saldana Tania , Bustos Javier A. , Requena-Herrera Maria P. , Martinez-Merizalde Nelson , Ortiz-Cam Lizzie , Cáceres Ana Lucía , Guzman Carolina , Gavidia Cesar M. , Ugarte-Gil Cesar , Castillo-Neyra Ricardo 
Published: August 2024

Background

Cystic echinococcosis (CE) is a widespread neglected zoonotic disease caused byEchinococcus granulosus sensu lato(EG) with a global burden of control in the billions of dollars.E. granulosus’life cycle involves definitive, intermediate, and humans as dead-end hosts. Echinococcosis control programs use strategies that focus on any of these hosts. We aimed to provide a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of the EG control interventions worldwide.

Methods

We conducted a scoping review by mapping all studies on interventions for EG control following the Arksey and O’Malley Framework. We screened identified articles, and charted and coded selected papers. We classified the data based on target host, type of study, and control mechanism. We described the efficacy or safety outcomes, and the associated barriers/facilitators for the intervention. Critical appraisal was conducted.

Results

From 7,853 screened studies, we analyzed 45: seven centered on human interventions, 21 on animals, and 17 on both. Studies on humans focused on educational strategies and human CE monitoring. The studies on animals were field trials and most were based on Praziquantel (PZQ) for dogs. Studies focused on both animals and humans had, in general, more participants, lasted longer, and covered larger geographical areas. Overall, the quality of studies was moderate to low.

Conclusions

Available evidence suggests that long-term interventions aimed at both animals and humans can achieve significant reduction in EG transmission, particularly when PZQ treatment for dogs is included. Higher quality evidence, standardization of methodologies, and better reporting on post-intervention outcomes are necessary for drawing stronger conclusions. Further evidence is needed to assess the sustainability and scalability of control measures. Nonetheless, an integrative One Health approach is essential for overcoming the multiple challenges associated with sustaining long-term control efforts for Echinococcosis.

Funding

RCN was supported by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (grant nos. K01AI139284 and R01AI168291). LOC, JAB, and RCN were supported by the Fogarty International Center (grant no. D43TW012741). TAD, CG and JAB were supported by the Fogarty International Center (grant no. D43TW001140).

Author Summary

Cystic echinococcosis is a disease caused by the parasiteEchinococcus granulosus sensu lato. This parasite can be found in specific areas on all continents, especially in poverty-stricken regions, increasing costs and losses. Some countries have achieved control, but most are still in the process. Our review provides a clear picture of what we currently know about these control strategies and points out where more research is needed. It highlights how the findings can improve control practices by showing what works best and address practical challenges. The review also identifies gaps in current knowledge and suggests that comparing different control methods could help find the most effective and cost-efficient solutions.

Key areas needing attention include increasing support and funding for echinococcosis, as the disease is often overlooked. More research from different fields is needed to better understand and manage the disease’s complexities. Better and ongoing surveillance is crucial for maintaining effective control strategies. Finally, comprehensive reviews that bring together findings from different studies are needed to identify what works best and improve and combine future control efforts.