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Ectoparasites of European hedgehogs (Erinaceus europaeus) in Germany and their health impact.

Karolin SchütteAndrea SpringerFlorian BrandesMaximilian ReuschelMichael FehrChristina Strube
Published in: Parasites & vectors (2024)
With a detected infestation rate of 98.6%, almost all of the examined hedgehogs were infested with at least one ectoparasite species. The seasonal activity patterns of the different ectoparasite species together with the complex annual cycle of hedgehogs lead to different seasonal patterns in ectoparasite prevalence and infestation intensities. Due to the risk of transmission of zoonotic pathogens as well as the possible negative impact on the host itself, hedgehogs should be treated against ectoparasites when taken into care facilities.
Keyphrases
  • healthcare
  • public health
  • risk factors
  • palliative care
  • quality improvement
  • health information
  • climate change
  • risk assessment