Hookworms are a serious threat to dogs, especially young puppies. They can cause blood loss, weight loss, diarrhea or death.
Can hookworms cause death in humans?
Hookworm causes an estimated 65,000 deaths annually. However, the majority of the global burden of disease is due to associated morbidity and not mortality. Hookworm infection occurs when third-stage larvae (L3), known as filariform, come in contact with and penetrate human skin.
Are hookworms life threatening?
Ancylostoma spp., also known as hookworms, are blood-sucking intestinal parasites that can live in the small intestinal tract of your dog. These parasites can cause severe anemia and inflammation in the small intestine tract, which can lead to severe and life-threatening illness—especially in puppies.
What happens if you leave hookworms untreated?
An untreated, severe infection results in blood loss. Blood loss can lead to anemia and protein deficiency. Severe anemia can cause dizziness, fatigue, muscle cramps, shortness of breath and chest pain. Children infected with hookworms over long periods of time can suffer severe effects from lack of iron and protein.
What is the death rate of hookworm?
Mortality is low, with an estimated 65,000 deaths annually due to hookworm, though those hookworm-related deaths that do occur are probably under-recognized as a consequence of the insidious nature of the disease.
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