Potential for Emergence of Foodborne Trematodiases Transmitted by an Introduced Snail (Melanoides tuberculata) in California and Elsewhere in the United States

Abstract

We document that three human-infectious trematodes and their introduced first intermediate host snail (Melanoides tuberculata) are widespread throughout southern California. We surveyed 41 fishing localities, 19 of which harbored snails infected with zoonotic trematodes. Two of the parasites, Haplorchis pumilio and Centrocestus formosanus, are fishborne intestinal trematodes recognized as being important human pathogens in other areas of the world; the third, Philophthalmus gralli, can infect the human eye. An additional five species detected infecting M. tuberculata are likely of little direct threat to people; however, they may be recently introduced to the Americas, highlighting the risk that additional pathogenic trematodes transmitted by the snail in its native range could be introduced to the United States. The current, possible human-infection risk in California clarifies the need to consider the introduced snail and its parasites from a public health perspective anywhere in the United States the snail has been introduced.

Update on the Geographic Distribution of the Intermediate Host Snails of Schistosoma mansoni on St. Lucia: A Step Toward Confirming the Interruption of Transmission of Human Schistosomiasis

“… 36 Such snails might begin to transmit trematodes of medical, veterinary, or conservation concern. 40 , 41 Also, it should be noted that the flora and fauna of islands are subject to high immigration and extinction rates, so future changes in freshwater habitats in St. Lucia may be unpredictable, particularly considering changing climates.…”

Alternative Approaches for the Treatment of Chagas Disease

“…As per the World Health Organization (WHO) reports there are more than 20 Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) which contains several contagious illnesses of tropical and subtropical regions including Buruli ulcer, [1] chagas disease, [2] dengue, chikungunya, [3] dracunculiasis (guinea-worm disease), [4] echinococcosis, [5] foodborne trematodes, [6] human African trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness), [7] leishmaniasis, [8] leprosy (Hansen's disease), [9] lymphatic filariasis etc. To combat NTDs, the WHO) has implemented five main management approaches: enhanced water and sanitation, vector control, increased disease management, preventative chemotherapy, and neglected zoonotic illnesses.…”