Parasitoses liées à l'alimentation chez les populations néolithiques du lac de Chalain (Jura, France)

The study of palaeoparasites from the lakeside of Chalain has focused particularly on coprolites which have revealed numerous eggs of helminths. The presence in situ of these parasitic elements attests to the development of several parasitoses related directly to dietary habits: ichtyophagy (Diphyllobothrium), creatophagy (Taenia), and phytophagy (Fasciola). The transmission of these parasites was promoted by the mode of preparation of foods and a lack of hygiene. The biological cycle of the different forms of recognized parasites is discussed and a hypothesis is advanced for the presence during the Neolithic of a variety of hosts at differing points during this cycle.