Abstract :
[en] The geographic range of the zoonotic raccoon roundworm (Baylisascaris procyonis) is
expanding together with the range of its host, the raccoon (Procyon lotor). This creates
a new public health risk in parts of Europe where this parasite was previously absent. In
the Netherlands, a raccoon population is becoming established and incidental findings
of B. procyonis have been reported. To assess the risk to public health, the prevalence
of B. procyonis was determined in the province of Limburg, where currently the largest
Dutch raccoon population is present, as well as in the adjoining region of southern Belgium. Furthermore, genetic methods were employed to assess invasion pathways of
both the raccoon and B. procyonisto aid in the development of control measures.
Macroscopic analysis of intestinal content and testing of faecal samples were performed to detect B. procyonis adults and eggs. The population genetics of both B. procyonis and its raccoon host were analysed using samples from central and northwestern
Europe.
B. procyonis was found in 14/23 (61%, 95% CI: 41%–78%) raccoons from Limburg,
but was not detected in 50 Belgian raccoons. Genetic analyses showed that the majority of the Dutch raccoons and their roundworms were introduced through ex-captive
individuals.
As long as free-living raccoon populations originate from captivity, population control methods may be pursued. However, natural dispersal from the border regions will
complicate prolonged population control. To reduce the public health risk posed by B.
procyonis, public education to increase awareness and adapt behaviour towards raccoons is key
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