Formation of Natural Foci of Trematodosis in the Kursk Region

The formation of a natural focus is a basic condition for the spread of biohelminthiasis including trematodiasis. This group of parasitic infections is widespread and of great parasitological importance both in the world in general and in the Russian Federation in particular. The identification of conditions suitable for focus formation makes it possible to predict and prevent possible distribution of parasites. This article presents a summary of formation conditions of trematodiasis foci in the Kursk Region and the prediction of associated parasitic threats. Optimal conditions for this epizootological process and corresponding climatic factors are recorded. Large populations of gastropods that are intermediate hosts of trematodes have been identified. The analysis of studies on trematode infections in the Region demonstrates the detection of many representatives of this group of helminths including species dangerous to humans and species harmful to agriculture and fisheries. In view of the above factors and expected preservation of natural and climatic conditions that are optimal for maintaining trematode life cycles, we conclude that there is a need for further study on the trematodiasis foci issue in the Kursk Region.