Parasitic infections can be spread in a number of ways. For example, protozoa and helminths can be spread through contaminated water, food, waste, soil, and blood. Some can be passed through sexual contact. Some parasites are spread by insects that act as a vector, or carrier, of the disease.
How are parasites transmitted from one host to another?
Many parasites are transmitted from one host to another by ingestion: for example, the larvae and eggs of intestinal parasites. The host may swallow the parasites because of fecal contamination of the food, or through camivory (Crompton, 1976). Parasites may also be swallowed during preening or grooming (Baker, 1975).
What is the most common way to get a parasite?
Anyone can contract a parasitic infection and some people are at higher risk because of certain reasons. One of the most common ways of contracting this type of condition is through contaminated food such as undercooked meat or drinking unclean water.
How are intestinal parasites typically transmitted?
Transmission of protozoa that live in a human's intestine to another human typically occurs through a fecal-oral route (for example, contaminated food or water or person-to-person contact).
Can parasites be passed from person to person?
Some parasitic infections can be passed from person to person. The most common way this occurs is when food that has been prepared by someone with an infection is eaten. In some cases, the condition can be spread by a tainted blood transfusion or when sharing a needle with someone infected.
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