Hydatid disease (Echinococcus granulosus) in Australian Wildlife FACT SHEET

Echinococcus granulosus is widespread in Australian wildlife where its reproductive potential may be greater than in domestic animals. The parasite is zoonotic; humans may develop hydatid cysts following ingestion of eggs. Infected definitive hosts, dingoes, their hybrids and foxes may pose a public health risk but even heavy parasites loads are of no significance to the animals’ health. The parasite is pathogenic in macropods, is found at a higher prevalence and is potentially fatal in smaller species including endangered rock-wallabies and the bridled nail-tail wallaby. Further research is required to reach a greater understanding of importance of the parasite in Australian wildlife.