It is a flatworm whose adult is a parasite of foxes or dogs, and, more rarely, of cats. Echinococci are not very dangerous for our small pets, but their larval form can cause a serious disease in humans: echinococcosis. There are two species of echinococcus; the one we’ll be discussing today is Echinococcus multilocularis. This species is found throughout the northern half of France and in Central and Eastern European countries.

The adult is a fox parasite. Its microscopic eggs are hidden in the feces of foxes, and can be deposited on plants, wild berries, soil, and even garden vegetables. The eggs of the parasite are ingested by small rodents, such as voles. The parasites then form cysts in the liver. Foxes in turn become infected by eating infected rodents. Dogs and cats that hunt can become infected in the same way. The eggs are dangerous for humans because the parasite will attack the liver. Ingestion of eggs can happen by eating contaminated berries or vegetables or if you put your dirty hands in your mouth.