Low Prevalence of Echinococcus multilocularis in Michigan, USA: A Survey of Coyotes (Canis latrans), Red Foxes (Vulpes vulpes), and Gray Foxes (Urocyon cinereoargenteus), 2009-2012

摘要

Echinococcus multilocularis can cause serious disease and even death in humans. Despite its human health implications, nearly 20 years have elapsed since the last surveys for E. multilocularis have been conducted in the United States. Between April 2009 and December 2012, 302 coyotes (Canis latrans), gray foxes (Urocyon cinereoar-genteus), and red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) from Michigan were examined for E. multilocularis. The cestode was identified in 1 coyote (0.4%, n = 223 coyotes) from the southwest portion of the state, representing the first report of E. multilocularis in this species in Michigan. Prevalence was lower than expected based on previous results in red foxes and coyotes in Michigan and nearby states.