Tapeworms can live outside for months, waiting for a host to come along. You're most at risk if you work around livestock or travel to a country where hygiene is poor. You can also be infected if you eat or drink something that contains tapeworm eggs or larvae, like raw or undercooked beef or pork.
How long do tapeworms survive on surfaces?
The eggs can survive for months on almost any surface, including grass, carpets, bathroom floors, and bedsheets. If a live tapeworm leaves the body, it can survive for around three weeks without a host.
How long can tapeworm eggs live on surfaces?
The eggs must remain viable in the environment until their intermediary hosts, larval fleas, eat them. While most tapeworm eggs live several months while waiting for intermediate hosts, scientists have discovered that some tapeworm eggs can last up to eight months.
Can tapeworms live on bedding?
These white parasites can be found around dog feces, in a cat's litter box or even on sofas and pet bedding. Tapeworms can look similar to little grains of rice or longer spaghetti-like segments.
Can you get tapeworms from surfaces?
People can pass tapeworm eggs to others when they don't wash their hands after using the bathroom. Tapeworm eggs in feces can then spread into food or onto surfaces like doorknobs.
