[Epidemiological data on human distomatosis (Fasciola hepatica L.) in the Limousin region of France. The species of plants eaten and snail hosts].

These epidemiological studies concern 187 cases of human fasciolasis which occurred in the region of Limousin, France on a period of 24 years. Four species of plants have been eaten: Nasturtium officinale, Roripa silvestris, Taraxacum gr. officinale, Valerianella olitoria. These plants have been eaten during all months of the year, but with higher numbers in July-August and from November to February. The cases of human fasciolasis almost take place on all years, but their numbers are high in years showing a very important infestation of cattle by Fasciola hepatica. In 2/3 of cases, the plants come from stations situated out of cattle pastures. The water-cress almost comes from natural stations or from familial plantations. Five species of snails have been observed in these stations: Lymnaea glabra, L. palustris, L. peregra, L. stagnalis, L. truncatula. The young snails of these species experimentally have been observed. The significance of these results is discussed.