Ascariasis

Ascariasis is a disease caused by Ascaris lumbricoides roundworm, which is as thick as a pencil and takes 1 to 3 years to mature. The roundworm can grow up to 30 cm. It is the most common parasitic infection in the world. Cases occur mostly in developing countries. Children are especially vulnerable to infection. 

The disease is usually contracted in unsanitary local with exposed human fecal matter. Infection occurs by injesting food, soil with the eggs of the worm.

Symptoms include releasing live worm in stool, wheezing, lost of appetite, vomiting, shortness of breathe, and intestinal blockage.

Prevention: 
  • avoid contact with soil that may be contaminated with human feces;
  • wash hands with soap and water before handling food;
  • wash, peel or cook all raw vegetables and fruits;
  • protect food from soil and wash or reheat any food that falls on the floor.

Cure: 
  • anti-parasitic drugs Albendazole (Albenza), Ivermectin (Stromectol), and Mebendazole. 
  • Surgery will be necessary for repairing damage and removing the worms, in the most extreme cases. 

Works Cited

World Health Organization. Water related diseases:Ascariasis
< http://www.who.int/water_sanitation_health/diseases/ascariasis/en/ > retrieved 22 May 2012

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