Developing countries continue to battle the scourge of neglected diseases, with dire repercussions on public health, livestock production and food security. Tapeworm infection accounts for very high rates of organ/meat condemnations and economic losses resulting from the cost of treatment and control, causing devastating consequences (reduced productivity and economic hardships) among local farmers.
Globally, the infection rates of tapeworms differ by country and are generally higher in developing countries than in developed countries. The managing cost for tapeworm infection and the consequent production losses run into several billion dollars. Furthermore, genetic variability observed in numerous tapeworm species is associated with preferences for intermediate hosts, playing a crucial role in tapeworm epidemiology due to geographic variations in the abundance and distribution of these intermediate hosts. Virulence and morphological distinctions serve as associated factors within these genetically diverse forms, carrying implications for the diagnosis and control of the parasites. Additional considerations involve the rise of drug resistance.
Although specific zoonotic tapeworms are commonly emphasized in research, there is a distinct lack of focus on other tapeworms with considerable veterinary implications. By employing innovative tools and methodologies, we can provide novel and valuable perspectives to advance our understanding and consequently, the management and control of tapeworm infections, especially among economically important animals.
The objective of this Research Topic is to compile research that offers novel insights into zoonotic and veterinary-significant tapeworms in developing countries. We invite original manuscripts and reviews that concentrate on, but are not restricted to, the following areas:
- Genomic characterization and prevalence of tapeworms in companion and economically significant animals, including aquatic species.
- Research offering fresh insights into the geographic distribution, phylogeography, evolution, and population structure of tapeworms.
- Development of new molecular markers and sensitive diagnostic techniques for tapeworm diagnosis.
- Recent advancements in understanding the pathogenesis, treatment, and host-pathogen interactions related to tapeworm infections.
- Assessment of the financial and economic impact of tapeworm infections on animal and livestock production.
- Examination of challenges and advancements in tapeworm control strategies.
- Anthelmintic efficacy and resistance in tapeworms.
Keywords:
Genetic diversity, Diagnosis, Cestodes, Epidemiology, Phylogeography, Drug efficacy
Important Note:
All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.
Developing countries continue to battle the scourge of neglected diseases, with dire repercussions on public health, livestock production and food security. Tapeworm infection accounts for very high rates of organ/meat condemnations and economic losses resulting from the cost of treatment and control, causing devastating consequences (reduced productivity and economic hardships) among local farmers.
Globally, the infection rates of tapeworms differ by country and are generally higher in developing countries than in developed countries. The managing cost for tapeworm infection and the consequent production losses run into several billion dollars. Furthermore, genetic variability observed in numerous tapeworm species is associated with preferences for intermediate hosts, playing a crucial role in tapeworm epidemiology due to geographic variations in the abundance and distribution of these intermediate hosts. Virulence and morphological distinctions serve as associated factors within these genetically diverse forms, carrying implications for the diagnosis and control of the parasites. Additional considerations involve the rise of drug resistance.
Although specific zoonotic tapeworms are commonly emphasized in research, there is a distinct lack of focus on other tapeworms with considerable veterinary implications. By employing innovative tools and methodologies, we can provide novel and valuable perspectives to advance our understanding and consequently, the management and control of tapeworm infections, especially among economically important animals.
The objective of this Research Topic is to compile research that offers novel insights into zoonotic and veterinary-significant tapeworms in developing countries. We invite original manuscripts and reviews that concentrate on, but are not restricted to, the following areas:
- Genomic characterization and prevalence of tapeworms in companion and economically significant animals, including aquatic species.
- Research offering fresh insights into the geographic distribution, phylogeography, evolution, and population structure of tapeworms.
- Development of new molecular markers and sensitive diagnostic techniques for tapeworm diagnosis.
- Recent advancements in understanding the pathogenesis, treatment, and host-pathogen interactions related to tapeworm infections.
- Assessment of the financial and economic impact of tapeworm infections on animal and livestock production.
- Examination of challenges and advancements in tapeworm control strategies.
- Anthelmintic efficacy and resistance in tapeworms.
Keywords:
Genetic diversity, Diagnosis, Cestodes, Epidemiology, Phylogeography, Drug efficacy
Important Note:
All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.