Absence of Trichinellosis in the Netherlands

Abstract

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Endemic clinical Trichinella spiralis infections in man in the Netherlands have not been observed since many decades. Incidentally imported infections may be identified. Population studies with sensitive direct and serological methods indicate no infection in dutch residents. T.spiralis infections in pigs in the Netherlands can not be demonstrated by trichinoscopy. More sensitive methods introduced after 1961 demonstrated incidental low degree infection spread all over the country. The change in pig husbandry almost excludes the transmission of T.spiralis to pigs in the Netherlands. A permanent epizootiological surveillance of 0.5 to 1% of the total pig population in the Netherlands since 1979 and direct control measurements on selected farms indicate that no T.spiralis infection occur in the Dutch pig population. Incidentally in wildlife in the Netherlands (wild boars, foxes) the existance of a sylvatic lifecycle can be demonstrated. It seems justified, based on the conclusions above mentioned, to certify that port from animals raised in the Netherlands is free from trichinella. The information coming from the relative unsensitive pooled sample digestion method to prevent T.spiralis infection is not indicative for T.spiralis infection perse, but excludes relatively severe infections which may cause illness in man. Therefore, the permanent epizootiological surveillance as carried out in the Netherlands since 1979, should replace the traditional regulations soon.