New approaches in detecting natural foci of autochthonous ruminant liver flukes (Fasciola hepatica, Dicrocoelium dendriticum) in Slovakia and their actual occurrence in cloven-hoofed game

The project is a comprehensive research of natural foci of autochthonous, medically important parasites of ruminants in Slovakia – liver flukes Fasciola hepatica and Dicrocoelium dendriticum. Innovative methods of intravital and post mortal diagnosis in combination with detection of geographical and environmental dependence of these parasitic infections in domestic and wild ruminants will be completed by monitoring of clinical and pathological course of the disease in game. The study enables identifying current foci burdens of fascioliasis and dicrocoeliosis, definition of the limiting environmental conditions and clarifying the relationship between infections of livestock and game. Implementation of the project will contribute to improving the health status of wild animals, which is an important factor in the conservation of biodiversity and natural heritage of our country, as well as to protect human health because of the zoonotic nature of these parasitic infections.