There are about 120 recorded cases per year in the UK, very few of which are serious. However, even one case is one too many and with basic hygiene practices and regular worming of dogs and cats the disease is easily preventable.
How many cases of toxocariasis are there?
In humans, it has been found that 5% of the U.S. population has been infected with Toxocara. Globally, toxocariasis is found in many countries, and prevalence rates can reach as high as 40% or more in parts of the world. There are several factors that have been associated with higher rates of infection with Toxocara.
How common is toxocariasis?
Anyone can become infected with Toxocara. Young children and owners of dogs or cats have a higher chance of becoming infected. Approximately 5% of the U.S. population has antibodies to Toxocara. This suggests that tens of millions of Americans may have been exposed to the Toxocara parasite.
How many kids go blind from poo?
Just one pile of dog poo can contain a million roundworm eggs! In humans this can lead to stomach upsets, throat infections, asthma and in some cases blindness. Over 100 cases of partial blindness in children are seen every year due to toxocara canis eggs in faeces.
Can you get worms in your eyes UK?
An eye infection caused by a parasitic worm increasingly common in mainland Europe could spread to the UK, pet owners are being warned. The disease, Thelazia callipaeda or oriental eye worm, is transmitted by a type of fruit-fly that lands on the eyes and deposits infective larvae.
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