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Rat Lungworm- a New Threat   arrow

Rat Lungworm- a New Threat

Rat Lungworm is a parasite that is potentially fatal in humans. It’s been located in five Florida counties, according to University of Florida researchers.

The study published in PLOS one reported that rats and snails in St. Johns, Alachua, Leon, Orange and Hillsborough counties contained the rat lungworm parasite.

Rat lungworm, which originated in Hawaii, affects humans if they ingest infected snails, crustaceans, vegetables, This happens when the infected slugs come into contact with rat feces.

he parasite could cause Eosinophilic meningitis if it travels and dies in the brain. Severe cases of the infection could cause coma or even death.

Symptoms of rat lungworm in adults are headache, stiff neck, fever, vomiting, nausea and numbness of the face and limbs. For children, the most common symptoms are nausea, vomiting, and fever. This is According to researchers at the UF College of Veterinary Medicine and the Florida Museum of Natural History.

Fortunately, the fatality rate of rat lungworm is low, researchers said.  The best way to prevent infection is to avoid consuming raw or under-cooked snails. This also includes vegetables that are not properly washed or cooked.

So why is this parasite showing up in the Sunshine State?

Authors of the study suggest that recent flooding in the Gulf Coast area might have increased snail activity, leading to more infections.

If you see an activity increase in the snails in your areas, be sure to contact a natural pest control company to help keep this threat low in your own life.