Angiostrongyliasis

Angiostrongyliasis, a zoonotic parasitic infection caused by Angiostrongylus cantonensis, has garnered increasing attention in recent years due to its expanding geographical distribution and potential public health implications. Originally confined to regions with tropical and subtropical climates, the disease has now been reported in various parts of the world, including temperate regions previously considered non-endemic. Climate change, globalization, and human activities are believed to contribute to the spread of both the parasite and its intermediate hosts, increasing the risk of human exposure. While angiostrongyliasis is generally considered a neglected tropical disease, its impact extends beyond endemic areas, posing challenges for healthcare systems and raising concerns about its potential to become a global health threat. Efforts to address angiostrongyliasis require interdisciplinary collaboration, including surveillance and control measures to mitigate transmission, research to better understand the epidemiology and pathogenesis of the disease, and public health interventions to raise awareness and promote preventive measures. Furthermore, coordinated international efforts are needed to develop effective strategies for the management and control of this emerging parasitic infection.

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