Screening of mosquitoes for filarioid helminths in urban areas in south western Poland-common patterns in European Setaria tundra xenomonitoring studies.

In recent years, numerous studies screening mosquitoes for filarioid helminths (xenomonitoring) have been performed in Europe. The entomological monitoring of filarial nematode infections in mosquitoes by molecular xenomonitoring might serve as the measure of the rate at which humans and animals expose mosquitoes to microfilariae and the rate at which animals and humans are exposed to the bites of the infected mosquitoes. We hypothesized that combining the data obtained from molecular xenomonitoring and phenological studies of mosquitoes in the urban environment would provide insights into the transmission risk of filarial diseases. In our search for Dirofilaria spp.-infected mosquitoes, we have found Setaria tundra-infected ones instead, as in many other European studies. We have observed that cross-reactivity in PCR assays for Dirofilaria repens, Dirofilaria immitis, and S. tundra COI gene detection was the rule rather than the exception. S. tundra infections were mainly found in Aedes mosquitoes. The differences in the diurnal rhythm of Aedes and Culex mosquitoes did not seem a likely explanation for the lack of S. tundra infections in Culex mosquitoes. The similarity of S. tundra COI gene sequences found in Aedes vexans and Aedes caspius mosquitoes and in roe deer in many European studies, supported by data on Ae. vexans biology, suggested host preference as the most likely cause of the mosquito genus-biased infections. High diversity of the COI gene sequences isolated in the city of Wroclaw in south western Poland and the presence of identical or almost identical sequences in mosquitoes and roe deer across Europe suggests that S. tundra has been established in most of Europe for a very long time.

A cross-sectional study among Polish hunters: seroprevalence of hepatitis E and the analysis of factors contributing to HEV infections.

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is known as zoonotic agent. The main reservoirs of HEV in Europe are pigs, wild boars, and deer. Hunting activity is considered to be a risk factor for HEV infection. We conducted a cross-sectional study among 1021 Polish hunters. To understand socio-demographic characteristics of this population and to gather information on potential exposures, all participants completed a questionnaire. Commercial immunoassays were employed to estimate seroprevalence anti-HEV. Samples with confirmed positive result of anti-HEV IgM were examined for HEV RNA. Anti-HEV IgG were identified in 227 people, 22.2% of the studied group. Seroprevalence among the studied hunters was associated with age ≥65 [adjusted prevalence ratio (aPR) 1.6, p = 0.037), living in a house (aPR 1.54, p = 0.013), professional contact with farm animals (aPR 1.09, p = 0.01), and consumption of stewed offal (aPR 1.61, p = 0.00). Washing hands after disembowelment was linked to lower seroprevalence (aPR 0.53; p = 0.00). Lower prevalence of anti-HEV IgG among hunters living in cities was associated with age: 35-49 (aPR 0.52, p = 0.011) and 50-64 (aPR 0.93, p = 0.58), living in a house (aPR 1.58, p = 0.002) and owning a cat (aPR 0.58, p = 0.042). Among hunters living in rural areas, seropositivity was associated with contact with farm animals (aPR 1.66, p = 0.013) and consumption of stewed offal (aPR 1.81; p = 0.001). Contrary to initial assumptions, it was concluded that hunting was of significantly lesser importance than other factors. Due to the high level of HEV seroprevalence identified, we recommend conducting a large-scale study in the general population of Poland.

High-resolution melting PCR assay, applicable for diagnostics and screening studies, allowing detection and differentiation of several Babesia spp. infecting humans and animals.

The goal of the study was to design a single tube PCR test for detection and differentiation of Babesia species in DNA samples obtained from diverse biological materials. A multiplex, single tube PCR test was designed for amplification of approximately 400 bp region of the Babesia 18S rRNA gene. Universal primers were designed to match DNA of multiple Babesia spp. and to have low levels of similarity to DNA sequences of other intracellular protozoa and Babesia hosts. The PCR products amplified from Babesia DNA isolated from human, dog, rodent, deer, and tick samples were subjected to high-resolution melting analysis for Babesia species identification. The designed test allowed detection and differentiation of four Babesia species, three zoonotic (B. microti, B. divergens, B. venatorum) and one that is generally not considered zoonotic-Babesia canis. Both detection and identification of all four species were possible based on the HRM curves of the PCR products in samples obtained from the following: humans, dogs, rodents, and ticks. No cross-reactivity with DNA of Babesia hosts or Plasmodium falciparum and Toxoplasma gondii was observed. The lack of cross-reactivity with P. falciparum DNA might allow using the assay in endemic malaria areas. The designed assay is the first PCR-based test for detection and differentiation of several Babesia spp. of medical and veterinary importance, in a single tube reaction. The results of the study show that the designed assay for Babesia detection and identification could be a practical and inexpensive tool for diagnostics and screening studies of diverse biological materials.

Cystic echinococcosis in Poland: genetic variability and the first record of Echinococcus granulosus sensu stricto (G1 genotype) in the country.

Cystic echinococcosis is one of the most important zoonotic diseases affecting humans and livestock worldwide, and is endemic in Poland. A set of six isolates on larval stages of Echinococcus granulosus sensu lato tapeworms collected from three humans, two pigs and one sheep from Polish foci of CE was examined by DNA sequencing of two mitochondrial genes (cox1, rrnS). The results demonstrated the presence of E. canadensis and E. granulosus sensu stricto in the investigated hydatid cysts. The former species was found in all five isolates from pigs and humans derived from central Poland. In a sheep hydatid cyst originating from Lesser Poland Voivodeship in southern Poland, E. granulosus s. s. (G1 genotype) was identified. This is the first report of an unambiguously autochthonous infection with E. granulosus s. s. in Poland. The global distribution and host affiliations of the commonly occurring G1 microvariant with nucleotide change 56C/T in cox1, detected here in Polish sheep, are discussed. The finding that sheep harboured E. granulosus s. s. may have important consequences for developing effective hydatid control programmes in Poland due to its longer maturation rate in dogs compared with E. canadensis G7. This may lead to greater expenditures for purchasing anthelmintics to provide an appropriate dosing regime in sheep-raising areas of the country.

Genetic diversity of Blastocystis hominis sensu lato isolated from humans in Poland

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Blastocystis hominis s. l. is one of the most commonly detected protozoa in the human large intestine. The aim of the study was to determine the genetic subtypes of Blastocystis hominis s. l. occurring in humans in Poland. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Stool samples from patients diagnosed in the Laboratory of the Department of Parasitology, National Institute of Public Health ­ National Institute of Hygiene (NIZP-PZH) and in the Parasitology Laboratory of the Hospital for Infectious Diseases in Warsaw were examined. Blastocystis subtypes were assayed based on the fragment of small-subunit ribosomal RNA gene sequences (SSU rDNA). RESULTS: The examined isolates were classified into five Blastocystis subtypes (STs), fifteen of which belonged to ST3, three to ST1, two to ST2, two to ST6, and one isolate belonged to ST7. In three cases the subtype of isolate was not identified. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS: In Poland, the subtypes ST1, ST2, ST3, ST4, ST6 and ST7 have been reported in humans so far. The ST6 and ST7 subtypes are rarely detected in humans in Europe. In Poland, the ST6 subtype was previously described in chickens. On the basis of the studies, it was found that Blastocystis isolated from humans in Warsaw show high genetic diversity. In order to determine the possible pathogenic potential of individual Blastocystis subtypes, special epidemiological studies are required.

Is molecular xenomonitoring of mosquitoes for Dirofilaria repens suitable for dirofilariosis surveillance in endemic regions?

Dirofilaria repens is a parasite of animals and humans, transferred by mosquitoes. The assessment of the presence of D. repens-infected vertebrate hosts in the investigated area can be performed by xenomonitoring­detection of the parasite in blood-feeding arthropods. Our study aimed to evaluate PCR xenomonitoring of mosquitoes as a tool for dirofilariosis surveillance in Poland. We were also interested whether inter-study comparisons at the international level would be possible. Mosquitoes were collected in a single locality in Mazowsze province in Poland, in which between 12 and 20% of dogs were infected with D. repens and autochthonous human dirofilariosis was confirmed. All captured female mosquitoes were divided into pools; alternatively, single mosquitoes were analyzed; DNA was isolated and subjected to PCR and real-time PCR for detection of D. repens. The estimations of infection rates of mosquitoes with D. repens, based on PCR results, varied from 0 to 1.57% even between assays for detection of distinct fragments of the same marker­cytochrome oxidase subunit one gene. Polymorphisms of the DNA sequence within binding sites of the primers used in D. repens xenomonitoring assays, applied in European studies, were identified. Non-specific amplification of Setaria tundra (Nematoda: Onchocercidae) DNA occurred. Surveillance of dirofilariosis by PCR mosquito xenomonitoring is possible; however, the efficiency of the approach on territories where the prevalence of the disease among definitive hosts is lower than 12% remains unknown. Furthermore, mosquito infection rate estimations can be PCR assay dependent, which makes inter-study comparisons difficult. The results obtained in independent European xenomonitoring studies were contradictory. International collaboration would be required to establish a standardized set of assays for sensitive and specific xenomonitoring-based dirofilariosis surveillance.

First detection of Echinococcus multilocularis in dogs in a highly endemic area of Poland.

The aim of the investigation was to estimate the epizootic situation concerning infection by the cestode Echinococcus multilocularis Leuckart, 1863 in dogs (Canis lupus familiaris Linnaeus) from a Polish region where this parasite is highly prevalent in red foxes. Faecal samples (n = 148) were collected from rural dogs in Podkarpackie Province. Samples were examined through nested PCR (for E. multilocularis), multiplex PCR (E. multilocularis, species of Taenia Linnaeus, 1758) and PCR [E. granulosus (Batsch, 1786)]. Specific products were sequenced. Faeces were also examined coproscopically. In samples from two dogs (1.4%), there were positive PCR results for E. multilocularis. Taenia-specific PCR products were found in nine dogs (6.1%). Sequencing identified Taenia serialis (Gervais, 1847), T. hydatigena Pallas, 1766, T. pisiformis (Bloch, 1780) and Hydatigera taeniaeformis (Batsch, 1786). One sample (0.7%) was identified as Mesocestoides litteratus (Batsch, 1786). All samples were negative for E. granulosus with PCR. Taking into account coproscopic and PCR results, 28% of dogs were infected with helminths (8% with tapeworms). It should be stressed that one of the infected with E. multilocularis dogs shed eggs of the Taenia type and had a habit of preying on rodents. This investigation revealed the presence of E. multilocularis in dogs for the first time in Poland.

Human babesiosis.

Babesiosis is an emerging parasitic, anthropo-zoonotic tick-borne disease, seldom diagnosed in humans. Caused by Protozoa, Babesia (also called Piroplasma) intraerytrocytic piriform microorganism. Infection of vertebrates is transmitted by ticks. Out of more than 100 Babesia species/genotypes described so far, only some were diagnosed in infected humans, mostly B. microti, B. divergens and B. venatorum (Babesia sp. EU1). Infection in humans is often asymptomatic or mild but is of a particular risk for asplenic individuals, those with congenital or acquired immunodeficiencies, and elderly. Infections transmitted with blood and blood products raise concerns in hemotherapy. Epidemiological situation of babesiosis varies around the world. In Europe, no increase in the number of cases was reported, but in the USA its prevalence is increasing and extension of endemic areas is observed. The aim of this publication is to describe the problems connected with the current epidemiological situation, diagnosis and treatment of human babesiosis with regard to clinical status of patients.

Occurrence and prevalence of selected zoonotic agents: Echinococcus multilocularis, Trichinella spiralis and hepatitis E virus (HEV) in the population of Polish hunters--results of the study conducted in 2010-2012.

UNLABELLED: In Poland the development of the knowledge concerning zoonotic pathogens, of which free-living animals are the reservoir of is gaining in importance both in epidemiological aspect as well as in the context of prevention for improving public health. Dietary habits such as the consumption of forest undergrowth products and wild game meat, and the way of those products being prepared (in the process of barbequing) pose a risk factors of infection with the foodborne pathogens such as Echinococcus multilocularis, Trichinella spp., and HEV. AIM: The aim of this study is to estimate the prevalence of infections caused by Trichinella spp., Echinococcus multilocularis, and HEV in the population of Polish hunters, describing their geographical distribution in Poland, and to try to define basic factors, which may contribute to their occurrence. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In 2010-2012 a cross-sectional study was carried out among Polish hunters. A blood samples were collected as well as a survey of 1027 participants recruited in the 16 provinces was also carried out. Serological tests were performed for the presence of specific antibodies against Echinococcus multilocularis, Trichinella spp. and HEV using commercial or "in home" ELISA tests. In case of positive result for Echinococcus, an Em2plus ELISA or/and western blot test were carried out, and for positive results for IgM for HEV a recomLine HEV IgM test was carried out. RESULTS: In the studied population a total number of 2 cases of Echinococcus multilocularis infection were found. Moreover in 47 (4,6%) participants presence of antibodies against Trichinella spp. were found, including 17 positive and 30 borderline results. In 206 persons (25%) IgG anti-HEV antibodies were found (by ELISA test). Geographical diversity in prevalence of both, the Trichinella spp. and HEV cases was observed. SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS: The study confirmed presence of zoonotic infections such as Echinococcus multilocularis, Trichinella spp., and hepatitis E (HEV) among Polish hunters. In the case of Echinococcus multilocularis, and Trichinella spp., it appears that these infections are more common in the studied sample than in the general population. Additionally results on the prevalence of HEV infections indicate a need for further research on the occurrence of the virus in the country.

Recommended management of Toxoplasma gondii infection in pregnant women and their children.

Aforesaid recommendations for the management of T.gondii infection, elaborated by the group of experts, are intended for physicians of various specialties in order to standardize and facilitate diagnostic and therapeutic management. Early diagnosis of congenital toxoplasmosis, both symptomatic and asymptomatic, in neonatal period, initiation of adequate treatment and long-term, multispecialist monitoring, including multi-organ rehabilitation of children may prevent or reduce the complications of congenital toxoplasmosis. Health education, whose role is often underestimated, should be targeted mainly on girls and women at reproductive age as to prevent from infection during pregnancy.

Echinococcosis and cysticercosis in Poland in 2012.

AIM: The aim of the study was to assess the epidemiological situation of echinococcosis and cysticercosis in 2012 as compared to previous years. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The assessment of the epidemiological situation was based on data contained in the individual reports on cases sent to the Department of Epidemiology NIPH-NIH by the Regional Sanitary- Epidemiological Stations and on the pooled data published in the annual bulletin "Infectious diseases and poisonings in Poland". RESULTS: In 2012, the total number of reported cases of echinococcosis in Poland was 28. This included: 11 undefined cases (39% of all cases), 7 alveolar echinococcosis cases (41% out of l7 cases in which the species of Echinococcus was recognized) and 10 cystic echinococcosis (59% of all defined cases). The total incidence of echinococcosis was 0.073/100 000. Cases were registered in 8 provinces. Most cases (9) and the highest incidence (0.620) was recorded in Warminsko-Mazurskie. Echinococcus infections were reported in people aged 15 to 82 years, mostly adults (mean age 49.2 years, median 54.0). Echinococcosis was more frequent among women (incidence 0.096) than among men (incidence 0.048). The incidence of echinococcosis in rural areas was higher than in the city (0.125 vs. 0.039). Cysticercosis, which occurs sporadically in Poland, was not reported in 2012. CONCLUSIONS: For the purposes of epidemiological surveillance it would be advisable to introduce the obligatory differentiation of alveococcosis and hydatidosis, as well as a case definition for cysticercosis. In order to reduce the risk of contracting tapeworm infections, it is advisable to intensify educational efforts.

Trichinellosis in Poland in 2011.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: The purpose of the study was assessment of the epidemiological situation of trichinellosis in Poland in 2011. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The evaluation was carried out on the basis of the analysis of data from the bulletin "Infectious diseases and poisonings in Poland. 2010". information from the questionnaires of individual cases and epidemiological investigations of the outbreaks of trichinellosis sent by the Sanitary-Epidemiological Stations and on data from Demographic Research Department of the Central Statistical Office. Cases were classified according to the current case definition. RESULTS: In 2011. Poland recorded 23 cases of trichinellosis cases. The incidence was 0.06/100,000. There were reported 10 confirmed cases and 13 probable. There were no deaths from trichinellosis, but over 91% of infected persons were hospitalized. In 2011 three outbreaks of trichinellosis were recorded. One of them occurred in Dolnoslaskie district, where cases of the infection are recorded sporadically. The epidemiological investigations established that the cause of the outbreak was consumption of wild boar meat products, mainly raw sausage. Trichinella containing meat products are prepared primarily for personal use. but are also distributed among family and friends. CONCLUSION: The annually repeating outbreaks of trichinellosis mainly among family members indicates insufficient awareness of the risk of parasitic diseases caused by consumption of products containing raw or half raw meat of animals. Of the particular importance is to inform those who will give the carcases of animals to test about the limitations of the test method used.

Invasive tapeworm infections in Poland in 2011.

UNLABELLED: The aim of this work was to assess the epidemiological situation of echinococcosis and cysticercosis in 2011 as compared to previous years. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Assessment of the epidemiological situation was carried out on the basis of individual data submitted to NIZP-NIH by the District Sanitary- Epidemiological Stations as well as from data gathered from annual bulletins "Infectious diseases and poisoning in Poland". RESULTS: In 2011 there were in total 19 registered cases of echinococcosis; unspecified, E. granulosus, and E. multilocularis. Incidence was 0.049/100,000. The highest incidence was recorded in Podlaskie district (0.333/100,000). The reported cases occurred in adults between the age of 34 and 74 (average 56.4; median 58), more often in women (incidence 0.055) than in men (incidence 0.043). Incidence of echinococcosis was higher in the country (0.079) than in the city (0.030). The percentage of reported cases in which the species of a tapeworm was identified was 63%, and within that 42% were infections with E. granulosus, and 21% with E. multilocularis. In 2011 there were two registered cases of cysticercosis and the incidence was 0.005 per 100,000 population. CONCLUSION: It seems necessary to consider the introduction of obligatory differentiation tests for E. granulosus and E. multilocularis infections. It is also important to introduce a definition of cysticercosis for the purpose of epidemiological surveillance. It is recommended to intensify health promotion, including education targeted at reducing the risk of contracting invasive tapeworm infections.

Prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii parasite infection among people who died due to sudden death in the capital city of Warsaw and its vicinity.

BACKGROUND: It has recently been shown that the behavioural effects resulting from latent T. gondii infection in immunocompetent people could pose as a threat to their welfare. AIM. The aim of the study was to evaluate the prevalence of T. gondii infection in a group of people who died suddenly in Warsaw and its vicinity. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The studied group (n = 169 people) included 42 road traffic accident victims who were driving a vehicle (bicycle (n = 6), a motorbike (n = 3), a motorcycle (n = 13), a car (n = 20)) prior to sudden death and 41 people whose death resulted from suicide. Blood samples were collected post-mortem and examined for the presence of T. gondii, IgG antibodies and ethyl alcohol. RESULTS: Of the 169 people tested, T. gondii IgG antibodies were found in the serum of 93 (55%) of which 25 (59.5%) were drivers and 26 (63.4%) people who died as a result of suicide. With respect to the prevalence of T. gondii infection no statistically significant differences were found between the study (61.4%) and control group (49.4%); (p = 0.09). A statistically significant result was recorded in the 38-58 age group between suicide and control groups (71.4% vs. 44.4%; p < 0.05). Positive test results for the presence of ethyl alcohol in the blood were reported among 49.7% of the studied population: 25.7% among drivers, 67.6% among suicides and 51.8% in the control group. To a statisctically siginificant degree, IgG T. gondii antibodies were found to occur more frequently in people with positive blood alcohol test results among suicides (72% vs. 50%; p < 0.05) and among the control group (60% vs. 40%; p < 0.05) than in their equivalents with negative test results. CONCLUSIONS: Our work confirmed the usefulness of serologically testing samples collected post-mortem for epidemiological purposes. The small size of the study group made it impossible to evaluate the potential associations between exposure to T. gondii infection and the probability of sudden death. The significance of Toxoplasma gondii infection as a risk factor for self-destructive behaviour merits further study.

[Trichinellosis in Poland in 2010]. / Wlosnica w Polsce w 2010 roku.

INTRODUCTION: Trichinellosis is still an epidemiological problem in Poland as well as in other countries in the European Union (EU). Across the EU, reporting cases oftrichinellosis is mandatory. In Poland, tirchinellosis is an endemic disease, occurring mainly in territories where it is customary to eat raw meat products prepared from pigs and wild boars. AIM: The aim of this work is to evaluate the epidemiological situation of trichinellosis in Poland in the year 2010 in comparison to previous years. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Cases of trichinellosis infections were classified according to criteria contained in the definition approved by the European Committee on 28th April 2008 amending the decision 2002/253/EC, and was introduced in Poland in 2009. Case definitions used in are available at http://www.pzh. gov.pl/oldpage/epimeld/inne/Def_PL2_Rob1 h.pdf. An infection was classified and reported as Trichinella spp. if the genus of Trichinella that caused the infection was not specified using molecular examination. RESULTS: In 2010 the number of registered human trichinellosis cases was similar to the average number of cases from the last several years, and it did not exceed 55 (the exceptions were in 2004 and 2007, when larger outbreaks occurred). In 2010, 51 Trichinella infections were registered, yielding an infection rate of 0.13 per 100 000 inhabitants. The infections occurred in 5 voivodeships (table 1). Using the criteria from the definitions, 41 cases were classified as probable and 10 were confirmed cases. Trichinella infections diagnoses were based on the presence of clinical symptoms and an epidemiological link. Serological diagnostic tests confirming the presence of Trichinella antibodies was performed in approximately 20% of the cases. Four individual cases were reported, along with 4 outbreaks in which a total of 47 people were infected? The infections were generally mild. Twenty-two infected persons were hospitalised (43%). Just like in previous years, no trichinellosis-related deaths were reported. The outbreaks of trichinellosis in 2010 occurred in voivodships where they are reported almost every year. Groups of 10 people and above were affected, consisting of family and friends. The incidence rate in three outbreaks ranged from 24% to 37%. In the Pomorskie voivodship this number was much higher--above 82%. This could mean that the infected products contained a large number of Trichinella larvae or that not all of the infected people were reached by the sanitary services. Small children are very rarely infected. In 2010 in the Wielkopolskie voivodeship, two such cases were reported in children who were 4 and 6 years old. Epidemiological investigation revealed that in the reported outbreaks the infections were most likely caused by the consumption of wild boar meat products, especially raw sausages. This finding was confirmed by analysing meat samples using the artificial digestion method. The particular genus of Trichinella was not specified in any of the cases and therefore they were classified as caused by Trichinella spp. The reason why infected wild boar meat was permitted to be consumed in two of the outbreaks was due to faulty carcass examination results. These examinations were conducted using the trichinoscopy method, which is still allowed in Poland despite being less sensitive than the artificial digestion method. In the Podlaskie voivodship outbreak the carcasses were not examined, and in the Pomorskie voivodship outbreak it could not be determined whether any examinations had been conducted. CONCLUSIONS. The annual occurrence of trichinellosis outbreaks and infections points to insufficient control of consumable meat products and lack of public awareness about the dangers of consuming raw/rare wild boar meat and pork that has not undergone prior veterinary inspection.

Improved Blastocystis spp. detection method using swabs with Amies transport medium and charcoal.

Blastocystis is one of the most frequently detected protozoa in the human large intestine. One of the most effective and cheap methods for detecting Blastocystis in faeces is culture on a special medium in anaerobic conditions. Sampling faeces using traditional containers and their transport to the laboratory has certain limitations: a sample taken in this way should reach the laboratory relatively quickly, moreover, some patients are uncomfortable during sampling and protection of material in this way. We propose utilizing a swab for sampling and transportation of the faeces samples to be examined for Blastocystis instead of using traditional containers. We believe this is an excellent method allowing the material to be transported over longer distances without additional, and sometimes expensive, safety measures, and at the same time permitting the possibility of obtaining living cells after a relatively long period of storage.

A serological survey of Toxoplasma gondii in polish pigs from organic farms, other housing systems and in pigs of different age groups.

BACKGROUND: The consumption of raw or undercooked meat, especially pork, and offal containing infective tissue cysts is suspected to be a significant route of infection with Toxoplasma gondii. Although the use of "animal-friendly pig production systems" ensuring direct contact with the natural environment offers ethical benefits, it limits the ability to ensure animal health; it may also increase the probability of infections by pathogens such as T. gondii, and thus their entry into the food chain. This study determines the seroprevalence of T. gondii in pigs from different housing systems and farms with different hygiene standards in Poland, as well as among pigs of different age groups from farms with high hygiene standards. In total 760 pig serum samples were examined for the presence of specific antibodies using the PrioCHECK® Toxoplasma Ab porcine commercial ELISA test (Prionics, Switzerland). RESULTS: Test results with PP ≥ 20% were regarded as positive, as indicated by the manufacturer. Antibodies to T. gondii were found in 193 of 760 (25.4%) tested sera. Regarding different housing systems, antibodies were found in 117 pigs: of these, 52.6% (61/116) were from organic farms, 40.9% (47/115) from farms with low hygiene standards, 5.4% (9/167) from farms with high hygiene standards and 0% (0/40) from a farm with a high level of biosecurity. Regarding age groups, antibodies were found in 76 animals on farms with high hygiene standards: 11.1% (7/63) were pigs younger than 3 months, 0% (0/60) aged 3-4 months, 12.3% (7/57) aged 5-6 months (final fattening stage) and 43.7% (62/142) were sows aged 9 months and older. CONCLUSIONS: Antibodies to T. gondii were most often found in pigs from organic and low-hygiene farms, as well as in pigs aged 9 months and older. Meat derived from seropositive animals can pose a potential source of infection for humans. As maternal antibodies to T. gondii can be present in the blood of piglets aged up to 3-4 months, serological examination is unjustified in piglets up to this age.

[Trichinellosis in Poland in 2009]. / Wlosnica w Polsce w 2009 roku.

In the year 2009, thirty-six cases of human trichinellosis were registered in Poland, amounting to an incidence rate of 0,09 per 100 000 population. Of the registered cases 18 were confirmed and 18 were classed as probable according to EU definitions. There were no death cases resulting from the infections, however about 65,5% of the infected persons were hospitalized. Within the three registered outbreaks of trichinellosis two were caused by wild boar meat consumption and one by the consumption of meat products prepared from wild boar meat and pork. In all of the outbreaks, the contaminated meat products were prepared for household consumption. To avoid similar Trichinella outbreaks the polish public should be kept informed about the risks of unexamined pork and wild boar meat consumption. The importance of routine testing for trichinellosis in pig and wild boar carcasses should be adequately emphasized.

[Diagnostic problems with congenital toxoplasmosis]. / Problemy diagnostyki toksoplazmozy wrodzonej.

Congenital toxoplasmosis results from the primary infection with Toxoplasma gondii during the pregnancy. The more advanced pregnancy the higher risk of foetus infection, however the symptoms might be mild or the infection can be asymptomatic. However, undiagnosed infection in a new born baby results in further development of the disease in early childhood reflecting in sight and hearing impairment, neurological symptoms or mental retardation. Systematic and frequent serologic tests performed during the pregnancy can lead to the early diagnosis of primary infection and help to implement the treatment which slows down the disease progression in children with intrauterine infection. It also reduces the costs of long-term medical care required for the significantly disabled patients.

[Human echinococcosis in Poland in 2003-2010 according to the serological tests results of NIPH-NIH]. / Wystepowanie bablowicy u ludzi w Polsce w latach 2003-2010 w swietle wyników badan serologicznych wykonanych w NIZP-PZH.

In 2003-2010 5483 persons suspected of echinococcosis were examined for Echinococcus granulosus and Echinococcus multilocularis infections using serological tests in the Department of Medical Parasitology National Institute of Public Health - National Institute of Hygiene. The screening test ELISA (Bordier Affinity Products S. A.), confirmation tests Western-blot (LDBIO Diagnostics, Lyon-France) and ELISA Em2 plus (Bordier Affinity Products S.A) were applied. Within 235 persons posistive for in screening test, 162 were confirmed with Echinococcus granulosus and 33 - E. multilocularis. In 40 cases the tests failed to determine the Echinococcus species. In the period of 2006-2010 the linear decrease of percentage of positive results was observed. However, the information about the continuously growing population of red fox in Poland, together with the growing percentage of the animals infected with E. multilocularis, suggests the need for continuous monitoring of human alveococcosis.