Molecular detection of Taenia solium porcine cysticercosis in meat juice samples from pork entering the food chain
Background
Taenia solium is a zoonotic tapeworm parasite that infects both pigs and humans in low and middle-income countries like Tanzania. The adult tapeworm causes taeniasis in humans, while the larval form causes cysticercosis in humans and pigs. Current diagnostic methods, such as macroscopic meat inspection, have limitations in detecting the parasite. The lack of effective diagnostic tools hinders control and elimination efforts. Assessing the prevalence of infection in pigs and pork entering the food chain, and the community’s knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) is crucial. Meat inspection has low sensitivity, leading to infected pork entering the food chain unnoticed. Health education has shown some success in improving KAP. Effective diagnostic techniques and community KAP are necessary for disease surveillance and monitoring. Cysticercosis, caused by T. solium larvae, affects the pork trade and can lead to neurocysticercosis, a major cause of acquired epilepsy. Investing in reliable diagnostic methods and addressing KAP are essential for preventing and controlling the parasite’s transmission and ensuring the safety of pork.
Research project
Developing specific immunodiagnostic mechanisms for porcine cysticercosis is a priority, as it would enable more reliable and cost-effective detection of the parasites in endemic countries. Furthermore, exploring alternative diagnostic specimens, such as pig carcasses, may offer a more efficient and continuous monitoring approach for porcine cysticercosis. The aim is to invest in effective and reliable diagnostic techniques that can ensure the provision of safe pork to consumers and contribute to disease surveillance and monitoring in endemic areas.
Project Time: 2023-2025
Project Funding: The project is financed by a grant from the Sokoine University of Agriculture Research and Innovation Support.
Team Members
- Dr. Noel Makwinya (Principal investigator)
- Dr. Justine Daudi Maganira (Team member)
- Dr. Beda John Mwang’onde (Team member)