Northern Uganda declared high-risk for Pork Tapeworm

A new study has confirmed that Northern Uganda is a hyper-endemic region for the pork tapeworm (Taenia solium), a parasite responsible for serious infections in both humans and pigs.

Researchers found a 17.4% prevalence of porcine cysticercosis, a disease in pigs caused by Taenia solium larvae. The study revealed that free-roaming pigs, borehole water sources, and households lacking toilets were major risk factors contributing to infection.

The investigation, carried out across four districts in Northern Uganda, was designed to validate geospatial risk maps and determine the prevalence and risk factors of porcine cysticercosis in the region.

According to the report, Taenia solium is a neglected zoonotic parasite that causes taeniasis and cysticercosis in humans and porcine cysticercosis in pigs. Human cysticercosis can lead to severe neurological disorders such as epilepsy, making it a growing public health concern in endemic regions.

To reduce the burden of this disease, the World Health Organization (WHO) has included Taenia solium cysticercosis in its 2021–2030 Roadmap for the Control of Neglected Tropical Diseases. The roadmap calls for stronger control measures in hyper-endemic areas through multi-sectoral collaboration.

The Ugandan study recommends intensified control interventions using the One Health approach, which integrates human, animal, and environmental health strategies.

Key actions proposed include: Improving sanitation and hygiene in rural communities, Promoting better pig husbandry practices and Conducting community education and awareness campaigns to break the pork tapeworm transmission cycle

Experts warn that without coordinated action, Taenia solium will continue to threaten public health, food safety, and livelihoods in Northern Uganda and other affected regions.