Parasite Infections Are More Common Than You Think

Many people assume parasite infections only happen far away. They occur here too, and sometimes more often than you'd expect. Read on for clear, practical facts about how these infections spread, common symptoms, and what to do if you suspect one.

Myth: Parasites Only Affect Poor or Developing Countries

That belief comes from the fact that parasite rates tend to be higher in some developing regions. Still, infections can and do occur in wealthier countries. Risk depends on living conditions, education, occupation, and personal hygiene. Lack of access to sanitation and hygiene products raises risk, but those factors aren’t limited to low-income nations.

Parasites can appear anywhere. In some places they’re rare, in others common. Either way, people should know how to prevent them and how they’re treated.

Parasite Infections in North America

Contrary to popular belief, several parasitic infections occur in the United States. The CDC tracks some of these when they pose enough public health concern. Examples found in North America include cysticercosis, cyclosporiasis, Chagas disease, toxocariasis, trichomoniasis, and toxoplasmosis.

BM43 may help deal with all types of worms, including roundworms, threadworms, whipworms, tapeworms, and hookworms.

Some of these conditions are labeled neglected parasitic infections because they receive limited research and clinical attention. Physicians may encounter them rarely and may not immediately recognize the signs.

Parasites and Raw Seafood

Studies have shown large increases in some parasitic worms in raw seafood. One example is the rise in herring worms found in fish consumed raw or undercooked. Since the 1970s their abundance has risen dramatically in some regions.

Herring worms can penetrate the intestinal wall and cause symptoms that resemble food poisoning. Most people recover quickly because the worms usually die in humans after a few days. Many cases go unrecognized for that reason.

BM5 provides natural support for a weak immune system. Useful for issues related to viruses, bacteria, and allergies. It may help with eliminating blood, food, and medicinal poisoning.

The reasons for rising parasite counts in marine life are not fully clear. Climate change and nutrient runoff are possible contributors. If you eat raw seafood, accept there is some risk and take precautions like choosing reputable sources and proper freezing or cooking.

Common Parasitic Infections in America and How They Spread

Toxocariasis - Caused by roundworms from dogs and cats. People ingest eggs from contaminated soil, pet fur, or surfaces. Children are especially at risk.

Cysticercosis - Caused by ingesting eggs of the pork tapeworm. It can form cysts that affect the eyes, skin, and central nervous system.

Trichomoniasis - A sexually transmitted infection from the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis. Many infected people show no symptoms, which makes diagnosis and control harder.

Toxoplasmosis - Caused by Toxoplasma gondii. Common infection routes are undercooked meat and contact with infected cat feces. It can also pass from mother to baby during pregnancy.

Chagas Disease - Caused by Trypanosoma cruzi and transmitted by blood-sucking triatomine bugs. The bugs' feces can introduce the parasite into skin wounds or mucous membranes.

Symptoms and What to Do

Symptoms vary by parasite and how long the infection has been present. Common signs include:

• Itching and skin irritation
• Upset stomach or stomach pain
• Dehydration
• Diarrhea
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever
• Weight loss
• Gas and stomach cramps
• Flu-like symptoms

Some people have no symptoms at all. Others become seriously ill. If you suspect a parasitic infection, see a healthcare provider. They can order appropriate tests and recommend treatment that targets the specific parasite.

Prevention Tips

• Wash hands after handling pets, soil, or raw meat.
• Cook meat and seafood to safe temperatures, or follow safe freezing guidelines for sushi-grade fish.
• Use gloves when gardening and keep children from eating soil or putting dirty hands in their mouths.
• Practice safe sex and get tested if you have concerns about sexually transmitted parasites.
• Keep pets dewormed and maintain their hygiene.

Being aware, taking sensible precautions, and seeing a clinician when symptoms arise will cut your risk and get you treated sooner if you do have an infection.