Angiostrongyliasis
By: Hannah Moseley
Angiostrongyliasis' common name
Rat lungworm
Symptoms of Infection
Stiff neck, headaches, meningitis, nausea, vomiting, fever, abdominal pain, and constipation.
Treatment of Infection
There is not a specific treatment specifically for the infection, but there are treatments for the symptoms. A spinal tap might be an option, it will alleviate headaches. Any kind of general and neurological care will help with infection.
Where infections are found
Human infections have been found in China, the US, and Taiwan.
Angiostrongyliasis Lifestyle
The first stage larvae infect snails and mollusks. Humans can acquire the infection from the consumption of undercooked snails. During the second stage of growth, angiostrongyliasis becomes infectious. During the third stage, the larvae are consumed by rats, hence the name rat lungworm. The eggs are hatched in the lungs, and then are passed through rodent feces.
How to prevent infections
Angiostrongyliasis is found in locations where the species that tend to carry the parasite are most prevalent. Angiostrongyliasis is found widely in countries such as: Thailand, Taiwan, and the Pacific Islands.
Avoiding this infection can be easily done by thoroughly cooking and washing all food before consumption.
Website: http://web.stanford.edu/group/parasites/ParaSites2005/Angiostrongylodies/
Sources
"Angiostrongyliasis." Angiostrongyliasis. N.p., n.d. Web. 22 Sept. 2015.