About this Research Topic

Background

Developing countries continue to battle the scourge of neglected diseases, with dire repercussions on public health, livestock production and food security. Tapeworm infections lead to high rates of organ and meat condemnations, resulting in substantial economic losses for local farmers. The infection rates vary globally, with higher prevalence in developing countries. The management costs and production losses due to tapeworm infections run into billions of dollars. Genetic variability in tapeworm species, associated with preferences for intermediate hosts, plays a crucial role in the epidemiology of these parasites. Despite the focus on specific zoonotic tapeworms in research, there is a lack of attention on other tapeworms with significant veterinary implications.

The goal of this Research Topic is to gather novel insights into zoonotic and veterinary important tapeworms in developing countries. The aim is to advance our understanding of these parasites, particularly in economically important animals, and improve their management and control. This will be achieved by employing innovative tools and methodologies, and by addressing the gaps in the current knowledge, such as the impact of genetic variability on tapeworm epidemiology, the rise of drug resistance, and the lack of focus on tapeworms with significant veterinary implications.

We welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

• Genomic characterization and prevalence of tapeworms in companion and economically significant animals, including aquatic species.
• Research offering fresh insights into the geographic distribution, phylogeography, evolution, and population structure of tapeworms.
• Development of new molecular markers and sensitive diagnostic techniques for tapeworm diagnosis.
• Recent advancements in understanding the pathogenesis, treatment, and host-pathogen interactions related to tapeworm infections.
• Assessment of the financial and economic impact of tapeworm infections on animal and livestock production.
• Examination of challenges and advancements in tapeworm control strategies.
• Anthelmintic efficacy and resistance in tapeworms.

Keywords: Genetic diversity, Diagnosis, Cestodes, Epidemiology, Phylogeography, Drug efficacy

Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.

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