Echinococcosis is an interdisciplinary medical and veterinary problem, highlighting the interconnected nature of human and animal health, particularly in the context of zoonotic disease transmission and control, currently considered within the framework of the “One Health” approach. Among the nine species of helminths belonging to the genus Echinococcus, two are most relevant for Ukraine and Poland: Echinococcus granulosus sensu lato (s.l.) and E. multilocularis. The former causes cystic (hydatid) echinococcosis in humans, while the latter causes alveolar echinococcosis. These dangerous biohelminthoses form parasitic systems involving definitive hosts (carnivorous mammals of the order Carnivora, families Canidae and Felidae) and intermediate hosts (cattle, sheep, pigs, horses, rodents, humans, etc.).
The aim of this study was to determine the main characteristics of the development of epizootic and epidemic processes of echinococcosis at the present stage, considering the impact of the active phase of the Russo-Ukrainian war on the dynamics of the spread of this biohelminthosis. Descriptive techniques of the comprehensive epidemiological method were used to achieve the goal.
Alveolar and cystic echinococcosis are defined as endemic hazardous parasitic diseases under epizootic and epidemiological surveillance in Ukraine. Cystic echinococcosis is widespread nationwide, while alveolar echinococcosis has a more pronounced zonal distribution. Cases of echinococcosis in humans and animals are recorded annually in Ukraine. The epizootic situation has worsened due to the inability to implement anti-epizootic measures for dogs and livestock in active combat zones and frontline areas. In humans, the chronic parasitic disease manifests with multi-organ damage, most commonly affecting the liver and lungs, though other organs such as the spleen, kidneys, and brain may be involved, too. After a long incubation period, it is usually detected in advanced stages through instrumental diagnostic methods. Surgical removal of larvocysts is performed using the PAIR technique (Puncture-Aspiration-Instillation-Reaspiration). In cases of multiple organ involvement, the prognosis may be unfavorable.
The lack of effective preventive measures and the limited efficacy of anthelmintic treatments complicates efforts to combat human echinococcosis. The optimal approach involves adherence to core strategies of the “One Health” program: deworming dogs as definitive hosts of Echinococcus granulosus s.l., improving environmental health, and raising public awareness.