Seroepidemiologic study of human Hydatidosis in Shahriar area, south of Tehran in 1999

Hydatidosis or hydatide cyst, caused by the larvae of Echinoconccus granulosus, is one of the most serious tapeworm cestodes infection occurring in man and in livestock in Iran. The present study was carried out in order to determine the rate of infection in Shahriar area, in which no study has been conducted regarding this infection. 1052 human blood sample from different age groups were collected by random sampling and the serums were examined by indirect fluorescence analysis. 62 samples (5.9%) were found positive. The percentage of seropositive rate in females and males were 6.3% and 4.5% respectively. The highest percentage of infection was in age group of over 60 years old (8%). Concerning occupation, a higher rate of infection was in farmers and animal husbandry (16%). The rate of infection in rural and urban districts were 8.1% and 4.8% respectively. Concerning the education, a higher rate of infection was found in illiterate group. In conclusion, since the prevalence of hydatidosis is high in this area, it is recommended to take into account a prompt control measures.