Prevalence of hydatid cyst in the slaughtered livestock in Sarpol Zahab and sero-epidemiology of human hydatidosis in this city in 2018

Background and Objective: Hydatid cyst is one of the most common parasitic diseases of humans and livestock, which is caused by the larval stages of the Echinococcus granulosus parasite. The disease is present in all parts of the world, including Iran, and it is important for health and economics. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of hydatid cyst in the slaughtered livestock in Sarpol Zahab and sero-epidemiology of human hydatidosis in this city in 2018. Materials & Methods:  In this descriptive- cross sectional study, a total of 1000 cattle: 1000 sheep and 1000 goat were slaughtered in Sarpol-e Zahab city in Kermanshah Province. Hydatid cyst organs were evaluated macroscopically, physical examination and cutting, as well as completing the questionnaire. Also, 736 blood samples were collected from people referring to the health centers of Sarpol Zahab city. Demographic data including age, sex, and occupation, history of contact with the dog and area of living were collected by questionnaires. Samples were examined by ELISA method after transfer to laboratory. Data were analyzed using SPSS software and chi-square test. Results: Anti-Ecchinococcus granulosus IgG was detected in 8(1/1%) out of 736 sera including 5(62.5%) males and 3(37.5%) females. There was no significant relationship between serum positive and area of living, educational level, gender and contact with the dog. The prevalence of hydatid cysts in livestock was 261(8.7%). The infection rate of hydatid cysts in sheep, cattle were 188 (18.8%), 45(4.5%), and 28 (2.8%) respectively. There was a significant difference between the infection rate in sheep with goat and cattle (P <0.05). The prevalence of hydatid cyst in female livestock was 53.6% and in males was 4.7%, which was statistically significant (P <0.05). The prevalence of hydatid cyst in the liver of sheep, cattle and goats was 84.04%, 86.7% and 89.3%, respectively. Conclusion: The Present study shows lower prevalence of hydatid cyst in Sarpol Zahab compared with those reported in other parts of the country. Therefore, it seems that health measures and raising awareness of people play a major role in reducing of human hydatid cyst. On the other hand, the prevalence of hydatid cyst in the livestock is relatively high. Therefore, disrupting the life cycle of the parasite between the final and intermediate host by controlling stray dogs and proper eliminating the offal seems to be necessary in controlling hydatid cyst.