Fox Tapeworm & Foraging Wild Herbs – What You Really Need to Know

The risks, the facts, and why you shouldn't be afraid to go foraging!

Foraging wild herbs is booming – from herbal teas to homemade skincare. But one question keeps coming up: What about the fox tapeworm? Is foraging dangerous?

Here’s the good news:The risk exists, but it’s much lower than you think.

What is the Fox Tapeworm?

The Echinococcus multilocularis, or fox tapeworm, is a parasite whose eggs can end up on plants via fox droppings. If humans ingest those eggs (e.g., from unwashed herbs), it can cause alveolar echinococcosis – a serious but extremely rare disease.

How can I get infected?

According to researchers, it's still not entirely clear how humans become infected with the fox tapeworm. What we do know is this: the tiny eggs of the parasite are excreted in the feces of foxes, but also of dogs and cats. It’s likely that they enter the human body through the mouth—by accidentally swallowing them.

People who spend a lot of time outdoors and are in close contact with animals—such as hunters, farmers, or dog owners—are considered to be at higher risk.

And what about wild herbs, berries, or fallen fruit? Yes, in theory, infection is possible through eating raw, unwashed plants that have come into contact with fox feces. However, experts consider this risk to be very low.

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Facts & Figures (as of 2024)

• Germany

  • According to the Robert Koch Institute (RKI), a total of 41 cases of alveolar echinococcosis were reported in 2022.

    
    

  • The southern federal states of Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg are primarily affected, as the fox tapeworm is more common there.

• Austria

  • The Austrian Ministry of Health reports that an average of two to three cases of fox tapeworm infections have been recorded per year over the past 30 years.

    
    

  • The main areas of occurrence are in western Austria, particularly Tyrol and Vorarlberg, although cases have also been reported from other regions.

Most infections affect hunters, dog owners, or people in close contact with wild animals – not foragers of wild herbs.

The likelihood of getting infected with the fox tapeworm while collecting wild herbs is extremely low.

5 simple safety tips for foraging:

1. Always wash herbs thoroughly in cold water.

2. Avoid collecting herbs lying directly on the ground.

3. Stay away from areas known for fox activity (e.g., fox dens).

4. Dry or cook herbs if you want to be extra cautious.

5. Wash your hands after foraging, especially before eating.

   
   
   
   

 Don’t be afraid to enjoy nature!

Don’t let rare parasites keep you from experiencing the joy of wild herbs. With a few smart habits, you can safely enjoy foraging and reconnect with nature.

Unmasked Nature Tip: Trust your instincts, know your environment, and don’t let fear overshadow the beauty of gathering wild herbs.