Hookworm infection is mainly acquired by walking barefoot on contaminated soil. One kind of hookworm can also be transmitted through the ingestion of larvae. Most people infected with hookworms have no symptoms. Some have gastrointestinal symptoms, especially persons who are infected for the first time.
What is the most common way to get hookworm?
Hookworm infection is transmitted primarily by walking barefoot on contaminated soil. One kind of hookworm (Ancylostoma duodenale)can also be transmitted through the ingestion of larvae.
How easy is it for humans to get hookworms?
Most people get the parasite by walking barefoot in soil infected with hookworm eggs. Left untreated, it can lead to unpleasant — and sometimes serious — symptoms. A single course of medication that kills the parasites is usually enough to treat the infection.
What are hookworms how do you get them?
You can get a hookworm infection by touching contaminated dirt with your bare hands or feet. You can also get it by accidentally eating contaminated soil. To reduce your risk, make sure your pets are vaccinated and dewormed by your veterinarian. Also, avoid walking barefoot in areas where pets leave feces.
Where are you most likely to get hookworms?
Hookworms live in warm, moist climates around the world: in the U.S., as well as in the rest of the Americas, Africa, Asia, Australia, the Middle East, and Southern Europe. They're most likely to infect people living in places with poor sanitation or where human feces are used as fertilizer.
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