The eggs can survive for up to 3 weeks on surfaces. If they are touched, they will be transferred to the hands. If the hands then touch the person's mouth, there is a serious risk of swallowing the eggs and becoming infected.
How long can tapeworms live outside the body?
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 tapeworm eggs live 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.
Can tapeworms live on furniture?
While tapeworms themselves will struggle to survive on non-porous surfaces for lengthy periods of time, their eggs may survive for a long time in crevices and corners. Bleach is an excellent disinfectant for tapeworms, but be cautious when using it on surfaces that may be sensitive to this caustic chemical.
How long do tapeworms live outside the dog?
Most tapeworm eggs last for months while waiting for their intermediate hosts; however, scientists have documented that the eggs of some tapeworms are capable of surviving up to eight months, Animal Diversity Web reports.
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Can dog worms survive outside?Can tapeworms live on surfaces?