Searching for Trichinella: not all pigs are created equal

• Trichinella parasites are mainly searched in the wrong pigs.
• Only free-ranging and backyard pigs are at risk for Trichinella infection.
• Trichinella parasites cannot reach pigs reared under controlled housing conditions.
• Trichinella control should be risk-based oriented.

Each year, millions of pigs worldwide are tested for Trichinella spp. at slaughterhouses with negative results. Yet, thousands of people acquire trichinellosis by consuming pork. So, where is the problem? Testing for Trichinella spp. is often performed on the ‘wrong’ animals; while the parasites are mainly circulating in backyard and free-ranging pigs, herds kept under controlled management conditions are the ones tested. Veterinary services should: (i) introduce a risk-based surveillance system for Trichinella by documenting the control of housing conditions and feedstuff sources, and (ii) introduce a capillary network of field laboratories for monitoring the parasites in free-ranging and backyard pigs. Investment of funds into the education of farmers, hunters, and consumers should be a priority for public health services.