Imported parasitic infections in Tasmania

Epidemiology of giardiasis in Tasmania: a potential risk to residents and visitors

BACKGROUND

Giardia infection is an ongoing problem in Tasmania and occurs throughout the state. It has been postulated that part of the problem is the reservoir of infection in native animals which is suggested to contribute to infections in humans. To date, however, no detailed study on the epidemiology of giardiasis in Tasmania has been carried out.

METHODS

Information regarding the prevalence of Giardia infection in humans and the risk of intrafamilial transmission was obtained from the Department of Community and Health Services and from the direct examination of human or animal fecal samples.

RESULTS

Giardia has been found to be present in a wide range of native and domestic animals and in humans of all ages from all over the state.

CONCLUSIONS

Giardiasis is endemic in Tasmania and poses a risk to locals as well as to visitors to the state, especially those who participate in wilderness activities such as bushwalking. These people must be aware of the possible risk of Giardia infection and should take precautionary measures to avoid infection.

Tungiasis: report of one case and review of the 14 reported cases in the United States

Tungiasis is a cutaneous parasitic infestation by the fertilized female sand flea Tunga penetrans. It is prevalent in tropical Africa and in Central and South America. Despite increasing air travel to and from these countries, surprisingly the disease is rarely reported in the United States. This report describes another case of tungiasis and reviews the 14 previously reported cases in the United States. Clinical features, differential diagnosis, treatment, and prophylaxis of tungiasis are discussed.

Tungiasis: imported disease

A case of importation of the sandflea Tunga penetrans is reported. If this species were to become established in Australia, there could be medical and socioeconomic repercussions.