Anisakidosis in fresh fish commercialized in three cities of the Bío Bío Region, Chile.

Abstract

Background: Human anisakidosis is a food-borne zoonosis, caused by the intake of fish meat parasitized by anisakid nematodes. Research of anisakids parasites in commercialized fish, without previous cooking or freezing, in the south central region of Chile is scarce. Aim: To identify anisakid nematodes in fourteen species of marine fish, obtained by artisanal fishing and commercialized in Concepción, Talcahuano and Lebu, cities from Bío Bío Region, Chile. Methods: During 2018 to 2020, we examinated for anisakids to 334 fresh marine fishes. Results: Larvae of Anisakis spp. and Pseudoterranova sp. were identified in specimens of seven and four fish species, respectively. Most of the larvae were found alive and located at the visceral level. Conclusion: Most of the positive fish species are recognized intermediate hosts for these parasites. The presence of anisakids in the musculature of these species indicates that their preparation, in smoked or raw form, is a risk to public health, and it is recommended to buy these products in gutted and / or frozen form, together with promoting their cooking.