Report of the WHO Expert Consultation on Foodborne Trematode Infections and Taeniasis/Cysticercosis

Overview

The foodborne trematode (FBT) infections and taeniasis/cysticercosis are among the most neglected tropical diseases due to helminths. While major progress has been made in recent years in reaching populations in need of treatment for lymphatic filariasis, onchocerciasis, schistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminthiasis, those affected by FBT infections and taeniasis/cysticercosis frequently have no access to adequate assistance.

This neglect is related to the scarce information on their geographical distribution and the lack of resources for their control. However, another reason has been the fact that there were no clear, practical, WHO-endorsed recommendations for use by disease control programme managers.

The main objective of the Expert Consultation on Foodborne Trematode Infections and Taeniasis/Cysticercosis, which took place in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic on 12–16 October 2009, was to formulate such recommendations, with the aim of supporting programme managers in endemic countries.

It is hoped that the disease-specific guidelines provided in this document will be instrumental in generating and supporting disease control activities, and in ensuring that all those in need of treatment receive timely and appropriate care.