Parasitic worms, also known as helminths, are large macroparasites; adults can generally be seen with the naked eye. Many are intestinal worms that are soil-transmitted and infect the gastrointestinal tract. Other parasitic worms such as schistosomes reside in blood vessels.
Which is an example of a parasitic worm?
Parasites are organisms that live in and feed off a living host. There are a variety of parasitic worms that can take up residence in humans. Among them are flatworms, roundworms, and thorny-headed worms (spiny-headed worms).
Where are parasitic worms found?
These worms live in the guts (intestines) and their eggs pass into soil from human waste (faeces) when infected humans defecate outside or when human waste is used as a crop fertiliser. They are one of the commonest infections worldwide, especially in hot, humid areas where sanitation and hygiene are poor.
Is a parasitic worm A virus?
Lice are examples of parasites that live on humans; bacteria and viruses are examples of parasites that live either on humans or in humans; parasitic worms (also called helminths) live in humans.
What causes parasitic worms?
Causes of intestinal worms One way to become infected with intestinal worms is by eating undercooked meat from an infected animal, such as a cow, pig, or fish. Other possible causes leading to intestinal worm infection include: consumption of contaminated water. consumption of contaminated soil.