From the classroom to the courtroom: virtual tools and outbreak scenarios for forensic parasitology training

Introduction
Despite their relevance to public health and forensic science, parasites are rarely used as indicators in criminal investigations. To address this educational gap and support the development of forensic parasitology as an emerging discipline, the University of Alcalá (UAH) integrated clinical parasitology content into two undergraduate programmes during the 2023/24 academic year.

Methods
New theoretical and practical components were embedded into the Environmental Toxicology and Public Health module (BSc in Environmental Sciences) and the Forensic Toxicology module (BSc in Criminalistics). Students engaged in outbreak response simulations using a scenario based on an emerging zoonotic protozoan. Workshops incorporated the open access virtual learning platform e-Parasitology© and the UK Recovery Handbook for Biological Incidents. Learners selected appropriate laboratory techniques for parasite identification and developed a tailored response to control the simulated outbreak.

Results
High levels of student engagement and satisfaction were observed across both programmes, despite curricular differences. Based on this positive feedback, virtual forensic parasitology case studies were developed and piloted. The first case, available via e-Parasitology^©, involves the post mortem diagnosis of Ascaris lumbricoides in a young girl, integrating virtual microscopy and autopsy images (http://parasitology.dmu.ac.uk/learn/case_studies/forensic_cs1/index.html). These resources are currently being evaluated for broader implementation in science and medical curricula.

Conclusions
This educational initiative demonstrates the feasibility and effectiveness of embedding parasitology into forensic and biomedical teaching. It highlights the value of virtual simulations and real-world scenarios to promote interdisciplinary thinking, diagnostic skills, and public health preparedness. Future expansions include the development of additional case studies involving protozoan, helminthic, and arthropod parasites, further consolidating forensic parasitology as a relevant educational and research tool.