Whipworm infection is caused by ingesting eggs. This can happen when hands or fingers that have contaminated dirt on them are put in the mouth or by consuming vegetables or fruits that have not been carefully cooked, washed or peeled. People infected with whipworm can suffer light or heavy infections.
How do you know if you have whipworms?
Abdominal pain, loss of appetite, and diarrhea occur when a large number of worms are present in the colon. Weight loss, bleeding from the intestine, and anemia.
Are whipworms contagious?
Unlike some other common intestinal parasites in dogs, whipworms cannot be transmitted via other species/hosts or between mother and offspring before birth or during nursing.
Can I catch whipworms from my dog?
Can I get whipworms from my dog? No. Whipworms are not infectious to people. They are exclusive parasites of the dog.
How do humans prevent from getting infected by whipworms?
The best way to prevent whipworm infection is to always: Avoid ingesting soil that may be contaminated with human feces, including where human fecal matter (“night soil”) or wastewater is used to fertilize crops. Wash your hands with soap and warm water before handling food.
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