Epimiología de la hidatidosis en el Perú

Abstract

The article describes the geography, way of life, manners and customs, health education, and other characteristics of the population in the "Sierra" of Peru, circumstances which may be directly or indirectly responsible for the endemicity of hydatidosis in that area. Epidemiological surveys conducted in different areas of the "Sierra" are evaluated as are statistical data from hospitals and slaughterhouses, in the attempt to clarify the problem and assess its economic and social effects. The conclusion drawn is that in the "Sierra" of Peru various epidemiological factors are directly or indirectly keeping the hydatid disease endemic there, and are thus causing a health problem that has serious social and economic implications. It is recommended that the reporting of cases be made compulsory, and that the statistical data on both human cases and animals slaughtered in slaughterhouses be centralized. It is also recommended that health education campaigns be conducted to establish or strengthen good hygiene habits, especially among the rural population