Toxocariasis is an infection transmitted from animals to humans (zoonosis) caused by the parasitic roundworms commonly found in the intestine of dogs (Toxocara canis) and cats (T.cati).
Where is toxocariasis found in the world?
Worldwide, Toxocara predominantly affects children in tropical and subtropical regions. Globally, the disease is more common in developing countries, with seroprevalence reported above 80% in children in parts of Nigeria.
How can you get toxocariasis?
Toxocariasis is caused by worms found in some dog, cat and fox poo. Animals with these worms in their digestive system can pass out worm eggs in their poo. You can become infected if poo, soil or sand containing these eggs gets in your mouth. Toxocariasis is not caught from fresh poo.
How many people are infected with toxocariasis?
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.
Where does Toxocara canis live?
Toxocara canis (also known as dog roundworm) is a worldwide-distributed helminth parasite of dogs and other canids. The name is derived from the Greek word "toxon," meaning bow or quiver, and the Latin word "caro," meaning flesh. They live in the small intestine of the definitive host.
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