Up to 30 per cent of P.E.I. red foxes, coyotes could have tapeworms

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The Government of Prince Edward Island says up to 30 per cent of red foxes and coyotes in the province could have tapeworms, although it stresses the risk to human health remains low.

The Atlantic Veterinary College conducted research between 2020 and 2025 and found that 20-to-30 per cent of red foxes and coyotes in the region carry the tapeworm known as Echinococcus multilocularis, which is a much higher rate than previously reported.

“Even in parts of Canada and Europe where this parasite has been present for some time, human infections are rare,” said Dr. Marguerite Cameron, epidemiologist with the Chief Public Health Office, in a news release. “Preventive steps like washing hands, washing or cooking wild picked foods, and talking to your vet about deworming your pets are highly effective.”

The tapeworm spreads through the feces of infected animals. People can get infected if they ingest microscopic eggs in contaminated food, water or soil, or through close contact with infected animals.

“Keeping domestic animals away from wild animals and their feces, unwashed food such as wild berries and greens, as well as ensuring that animals are dewormed regularly are all actions that can help prevent the spread of this parasite,” said Dr. Jill Wood, chief veterinary officer on P.E.I.

For more P.E.I. news, visit our dedicated provincial page.