Zoonotic Helminths in the Southern Peruvian Altiplano: A Four-Year Sero-Epidemiological Study and One Health Policy Implications

TL;DR

A four-year study in southern Peru found that echinococcosis is the most common helminthic zoonosis, highlighting the need for integrated health strategies in high-Andean communities.

Contribution

This study provides the first long-term sero-epidemiological data on helminthic zoonoses in the Peruvian Altiplano and emphasizes One Health policy implications.

Findings

Echinococcosis had the highest prevalence (4.4–9.2%) compared to fasciolosis and taeniosis/cysticercosis.

Echinococcosis prevalence significantly increased in 2021.

Integrated One Health measures are needed to address zoonotic disease burdens in the region.

Abstract

We assessed the prevalence of three helminthic zoonoses—echinococcosis, fasciolosis and the taeniosis/cysticercosis complex—among residents of the Chucuito Health Network (Puno Health Region, Peru) over four years (2018–2021). Sera (n = 910) were analysed by ELISA to detect pathogen-specific antibodies, following national protocols. Echinococcosis predominated, whereas fasciolosis and taeniosis/cysticercosis occurred at comparatively low levels. Prevalence ranged from 4.4–9.2% for echinococcosis, 1.1–4.9% for fasciolosis, and 1.1–2.7% for taeniosis/cysticercosis across the four years. Prevalence varied significantly between years, with a notable upsurge in echinococcosis in 2021. These findings underscore the need for integrated control and prevention measures grounded in a One Health framework that recognises the interconnections between human, animal and environmental health. Priority actions include strengthened health education programmes, improved hygiene and sanitation practices, and enhanced rural health infrastructure, alongside coordinated epidemiological surveillance and environmental management. Such measures are essential to mitigate the burden of zoonotic disease in vulnerable high-Andean communities.

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