Import risk analysis: Llamas (Lama glama) and alpacas (Vicugna ...

(McKenna 2009). Oribatid mites are the intermediate hosts for M. benedeni. The species is
considered to be apathogenic. Diagnosis is based on the presence of proglotids and
demonstration of characteristic eggs voided with faeces. A number of drugs are available
for treatment (Taylor et al 2007g).
Thysaniezia spp. have been reported in llamas but little is known about them and they are
not considered to be of clinical significance (Fowler 1992). Thysaniezia ovilla has been
described in camels. Oribatid mites are intermediate hosts and the parasites are not
considered to be pathogenic. Readily identifiable mature tapeworm segments can be found
voided with faeces (Taylor et al 2007i).
The parasites described above are unlikely to constitute a complete listing since the amount
of literature on parasitology in camelids is limited. However, infestation with the vast
majority of internal parasites can be diagnosed by examination of faeces. To provide the
highest likelihood of identifying parasites, faeces should be examined carefully to find
tapeworm segments or whole parasites and should also be examined by flotation and
sedimentation techniques and larval culture (Taylor et al 2007i).
34.1.5. Hazard identification conclusion
Full risk assessment for all species of parasites is not necessary. Instead general diagnostic
methods should be adopted to identify parasites, larvae or their eggs in faeces. Since there
are several parasites of camelids that do not occur in New Zealand parasites are considered
to be potential hazards in the commodity.
34.2. RISK ASSESSMENT
34.2.1. Entry assessment
There are a large number of internal parasites that may be present in camelids. Since the
animals for importation may not show any obvious clinical signs of infestation, the
likelihood of entry is assessed to be non-negligible.
34.2.2. Exposure assessment
Imported animals infested with internal parasites will void parasite eggs in their faeces and
thus contaminate the environment resulting in infestation of other animals including a
variety of farm animal species. Therefore, the likelihood of exposure is assessed to be nonnegligible.
34.2.3. Consequence assessment
Introduction of new parasite species could result in infestations of animals that leads to
reduced animal growth and production losses. Wild animals could also become infested
with some parasite species. Fasciola gigantica is the only known parasite of camelids able
to infest humans. Therefore, there would not be any consequences for human health since
this trematode would not be able to establish here.
128 ● Import risk analysis: Llamas and alpacas from specified countries MAF Biosecurity New Zealand