Hydatidosis: a comprehensive view of the Sardinian case.

In Sardinia the close association of sheep, dogs and humans still exists in some parts of the region, so that ideal conditions persist for the perpetuation of the parasite's life cycle. Two factors contribute to the spread of the disease: the practice of slaughtering sheep at home and the proliferation of dogs, mainly strays. This paper reviews the epidemiological picture and the economic consequences of the disease in man and livestock, strongly suggesting that this endemic disease is a major public health problem.