Humans can contract this parasite through the ingestion or inhalation of the round worm eggs. Roundworm (Baylisascaris procyonis) is a common intestinal parasite of raccoon and is a cause of a fatal nervous system disease in wild animals.
What happens if you inhale roundworm eggs?
Raccoon droppings are dangerous because many contain tiny roundworm eggs that can infect humans and cause serious illness if accidentally swallowed or inhaled. Although these infections are rare, they can lead to irreversible brain, heart, and sometimes eye damage and death.
Are roundworm eggs airborne?
eggs from contaminated hands, soil, or objects contaminated with raccoon feces. microscopic eggs that may become airborne when dry. Where is Baylisascaris found? Raccoons carrying Baylisascaris roundworms have been found throughout the United States.
Can roundworm eggs go through skin?
Many roundworm parasitic diseases are caused by poor sanitation and hygiene. Most roundworms or their eggs are found in the dirt and can be picked up on the hands and transferred to the mouth, or they can get into the body through the skin.
How long can roundworm eggs live?
These eggs must develop in the environment for 2 to 4 weeks, after which the eggs are able to cause infection. The eggs are resistant to most environmental conditions and with adequate moisture, can survive for years.
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