US EditionClimate a Factor Driving Increased Cases of Rat Lungworm Disease in Eastern Australia
- Veterinary researchers at the University of Sydney reported a rising number of rat lungworm disease cases in dogs in eastern Australia from 2019 to 2024, peaking at 32 cases in 2022.
- The increase followed wetter than average periods linked to La Niña events, which drive snail and slug proliferation, the main disease vectors for Angiostrongylus cantonensis.
- The disease results from infection with the parasite Angiostrongylus cantonensis, which primarily inhabits rats; dogs and humans become accidental hosts, where the parasite triggers a strong immune reaction against larvae in the brain, leading to severe meningitis.
- Professor Slapeta highlighted that this research exemplifies the One Health concept by showing how studying diseases in animals can provide valuable insights for human health, and stressed that avoiding contact with infected slugs and snails is crucial for preventing infection.
- The study calls for vigilance among health professionals and the public, urging further investigation of environmental impacts and targeted prevention to mitigate potential human and animal health risks.
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Climate a factor driving increased cases of rat lungworm disease in eastern Australia
Rat lungworm disease is on the rise in eastern Australia in dogs—and there have even been recorded cases in humans, including two known lethal incidents. Caused by a parasite naturally found in rats, the disease requires ongoing monitoring to ensure it is controlled and doesn't pose a public health threat.
What is rat lungworm disease and why are cases rising in dogs in Australia? - NewsGroove Uk
Cases of rat lungworm disease have been increasing in dogs on Australia’s east coast over the past five years, according to new research from the University of Sydney. A very rare but sometimes deadly condition caused by worm larvae travelling up the food chain, the disease has been found in a small but increasing number
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