Overview

• A Lancet Infectious Diseases study found 4,207 alveolar echinococcosis infections documented in 28 European countries from 1997 to 2023, revealing a faster spread than previously estimated.
• Germany, France, Austria and Switzerland account for more than two-thirds of cases, identifying the Alpine and Baltic regions as primary hotspots.
• Despite mandatory reporting in most nations, inconsistent case recognition and diagnostic shortfalls have left the disease severely underreported.
• Experts point to a growing fox population and increased human exposure in gardens, fields and forests as key drivers of parasite transmission.
• Researchers are urging a Europe-wide registry, enhanced public and medical education and harmonized diagnostic standards to close surveillance gaps and speed treatment initiation.