Outbreak of hydatid disease in Western Australia

Thompson, R.C.A. (1987) Outbreak of hydatid disease in Western Australia. Parasitology Today, 3 (9). pp. 261-262.

Abstract

In Australia, hydatid disease die to Echinococcus granulosus is most common in the south-east, and has been considered relatively rare in Western Australia — although few surveys have been conducted there. A small survey undertaken recently with the Department of Primary Industry suggested prevalence rates in Western Australia of less than 1% in cattle and 0.2% in sheep. However, since July 1986, high levels of infection have been found in grey kangaroos and feral pigs, with infection also found in hunters' dogs and dingoes. Here, Andrew Thompson discusses these findings and the possible spread of infection into urban areas around Perth.