Seroprevalence of infection due to Echinococcus granulosus in the population of Castilla and León (Spain); [Seroprevalencia de infección por Echinococcus granulosus en la población de Castilla y León]

INTRODUCTION. Human hydatidosis is a prevalent zoonotic disease in the Castilla y León region of Spain. The aim of this study is to investigate the seroprevalence of Echinococcus granulosus infection in this region. METHODS. We studied 4824 serum samples from a random, representative population of healthy individuals from each province of Castilla y León, obtained over one year. An indirect enzyme-immunoassay developed in our laboratory was used to determine the presence of IgG antibodies against Echinococcus granulosus in these samples. RESULTS. IgG antibodies against Echinococcus granulosus were detected in 3.4% (164/4824) of samples studied, with a range of 1.26% to 7.10%, depending on the province. Antibody seroprevalence increased significantly with age, but there was no significant sex-related difference (3.66% men vs. 3.14% women). CONCLUSION. The seroprevalence of Echinococcus granulosus infection in Castilla y León is still high. These data contribute to hydatidosis surveillance within the control program for this disease.