New insights in the epidemiology and control of Taenia solium taeniasis/cysticercosis

Project

The tapeworm Taenia solium affects humans in most developing countries. It commonly infects the nervous system resulting in neurocysticercosis, which is believed to be the main cause of acquired epilepsy in the world. Despite being seen as potentially eradicable, intervention/control efforts to date in developing countries have not been successful.

The classical view of this parasite has been that the intestinal stage is long lived (more than ten years) and that the cystic infection is chronic, lasting many years. Recent research suggests, however, that there may be a significant turnover in the parasite population and that the incidence of exposure/infection is much higher than was previously suspected. This programme therefore aims to achieve a better understanding of the epidemiology and natural history of exposure, infection and disease.

Applicants

Professor R H Gilman
Department of International Health, School of Hygiene and Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, USA

Professor A E Gonzalez
Department of Animal Health and Public Health, School of Veterinary Medicine, Universidad de San Marcos, Lima, Peru

Dr H H Garcí
Department of Microbiology, School of Sciences, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru

Professor P S Craig
Department of Biological Sciences, University of Salford, Greater Manchester, UK