Integrated-baiting concept against Echinococcus multilocularis in foxes is successful in southern Bavaria, Germany

Published source details König A., Romig T., Janko C., Hildenbrand R., Holzhofer E., Kotulski Y., Ludt C., Merli M., Eggenhofer S., Thoma D., Vilsmeier J. & Zannantonio D. (2008) Integrated-baiting concept against Echinococcus multilocularis in foxes is successful in southern Bavaria, Germany. European Journal of Wildlife Research, 54, 439-447.
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This study is summarised as evidence for the following.

	Action	Category
	Treat mammals to reduce conflict caused by disease transmission to humans Action Link

Treat mammals to reduce conflict caused by disease transmission to humans

A controlled, before-and-after study from 2005–2007 in rural and urban areas in Starnberg, Germany (König et al. 2008) found that following a worming programme, proportions of red foxes Vulpes vulpes infested with small fox tapeworm Echinococcus multicularis decreased. From four to 15 months after worming, a lower proportion of foxes (0.8%) was infested with tapeworms than was infested in untreated areas (33%). Before worming, the proportion infested was similar in areas to be treated (35%) and not treated (43%). From December 2005–March 2007, fox baits (Droncit®) laced with 50 mg of praziquantel were distributed by air in agricultural and recreational areas and by hand in towns and villages. Baits were distributed once every four weeks, over a 213-km² area, at a density of 50 baits/km². Additional bait was left around 100 den sites in January–February and June–August. No bait was distributed in a 238-km² control area. Tapeworm infestation levels were diagnosed in dissected foxes killed by hunters (133 before baiting and 123 after baiting). Small fox tapeworm causes alveolar echinococcosis in humans.

(Summarised by: Ricardo Rocha)