The Zoonotic Parasite <i>Dirofilaria repens</i> Emerged in the Baltic Countries Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania in 2008–2012 and Became Established and Endemic in a Decade

The zoonotic parasite Dirofilaria repens has spread toward north in Europe, and cases of autochthonous dirofilariosis caused by D. have emerged the Baltic countries Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania. We conducted a review on emergence humans domestic dogs these three northeastern Europe. Based available literature reports, first finding was made Latvia 2008, followed Lithuania 2010, Estonia 2012. In all countries, further findings were reported soon after reports. By end 2019, human infections had been described from Lithuania, canine countries. While no epidemiological studies estimating prevalence or incidence published substantial proportion investigated tested positive for microfilariae performed Dirofilariosis is an emerging zoonosis northern summarized data confirm that become established endemic do not provide good overview situation, are needed. Awareness about recently should be increased among medical doctors, veterinarians, general public. Managing this infection public health challenge needs to addressed using One Health approach. Investigating could useful better preparedness anticipated Nordic