Dog Tapeworms in Humans Occasionally, human infants and children become infected with the dog tapeworms. This happens through ingesting larvae-containing fleas. Children will sometimes eat the fleas directly if they are playing in sand or in a spot where the fleas are abundant.
Can a child get a parasite from a dog?
Toxocariasis (tox-oh-keh-RYE-eh-sis) is a human infection caused by a type of worm that can live in the intestines of dogs and cats. It is most common in young children and pet owners, but anyone can get it.
Can my baby get sick from my dog?
Some parents worry that dogs will pass germs to their babies when they lick or slobber on them. It's true that dogs' mouths can harbor bacteria, especially if they've been chewing on unsanitary things. However, germs tend to be species-specific, meaning dog germs are unlikely to make your child sick.
Can parasites go from dogs to humans?
The short answer is yes, many worms infesting dogs are zoonotic, meaning they can be transmitted from animals to humans. Different worms cause different diseases, and each have their own symptoms. So, look after yourself and look out for the signs.
How do I know if my baby has a parasite?
An intestinal parasite will live in the intestine or other parts of the body and often reproduce. Poor sanitation and unsafe water increase the risk of catching intestinal parasites. For children who do get sick, symptoms may include watery diarrhea, tiredness, and nausea.
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