Trichinella sp. infection in Martens (Martes martes, Martes foina) in Latvia and Lithuania (Kaunas region)

Abstract

Trichinella is widespread zoonotic parasite, common in almost whole world and wild animals are the natural reservoirs for these agents. Martens are common host for Trichinella species. Aim of this study, was to monitor distribution and epidemiological status of Trichinella spp. in pine and stone martens in Latvia and Lithuania. Marten samples were collected in hunting seasons of winter in 2012/2013 from different regions of Latvia and Lithuania (Kaunas region). Determined animal gender, age group and collected muscle samples (n = 98). Each sample analyzed for Trichinella spp. larvae and for detection used reference method - Magnetic stirrer method for pooled sample digestion (Commission Regulation (EC) No 2075/2005). Trichinella spp. prevalence in martens in Latvia and Lithuania (Kaunas region) was respectively 45.8% and 20.0%. Prevalence in stone martin was 54.6% and in pine martin accordingly 40.2%. Infection intensity varies from 0.04 to 61.20 (l.p.g.). Marten in Latvia show higher Trichinella spp. prevalence than in Lithuania (Kaunas region). Animal parameters (age group and gender) have low impact on Trichinella infestation. Main results of study show that in Latvia and Lithuania (Kaunas region) Martes species are frequent natural reservoirs for zoonotic agents Trichinella.