What is fox tapeworm? | |||
The fox tapeworm is a tiny3 millimetre long tapeworm that is not harmful to foxes. Tapeworm eggs are excreted with fox faeces, and then consumed by rodents. In the rodents’ livers they develop into tapeworm larvae. In rare cases, humans can also become infected with fox tapeworm causing a serious disease of the liver. | |||
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The small fox tapeworm (Echinococcus multilocularis) thrives in the small intestines of various canine species, particularly the fox. Relatively rare in southern Europe, this parasite is widely distributed throughout other parts of Europe and often infects a large proportion of foxes.
Fox tapeworm: a problem for the mouse but not for the fox The fox tapeworm does not cause the fox any problems. One month after catching it the infected fox continues to excrete tapeworm eggs with its droppings for several weeks. If mice (or other rodents) ingest these eggs while eating or scavenging, fox tapeworm larvae will develop in their livers. If a fox eats an infected mouse this completes the parasite’s cycle. In the fox’s intestines the larvae then grow into new fox tapeworms. Rare cases of infection in humans The eggs of the fox tapeworm can be transmitted to humans via unwashed food or dirty hands (for more). In rare cases, like in the mouse, this can lead to a serious disease of the liver, so-called Alveolar echinococcosis. This disease develops very slowly, so that the first symptoms are usually not recognized until some 5 to 15 years after the infection. Related questions How do I recognise fox droppings? How dangerous is fox tapeworm? What can I do about fox tapeworm? home | © |