We know that our pets can face some serious dangers if affected by nasty parasites and worms, but how do these worms in humans differ? Worms we contract from our pets can cause serious health issues to us too! Here’s a look at the worms that can affect humans, too.
Can you get worms from dogs?
It’s not only our pets that can contract worms – humans, too, can be infected, both adults and children You’ll want to keep your eyes peeled for signs of worms in your pet, not only to keep them safe but also to keep your family healthy. Here are some things to keep in mind when it comes to worms in humans and protection.
Worms that affect humans
Some varieties of worms can infect humans and dogs alike. Roundworms, tapeworms and hookworms are varieties that humans can pick up from their pets and these varieties have a number of risks associated with them.
Roundworm in humans
This variety of worm is picked up via contact with contaminated soil. Cases of contracting roundworm in humans are most common in young children, and if left untreated can sometimes result in blindness. It’s important to stop your pet going to the toilet near your children’s play area as this is where they are likely to come into contact with roundworm eggs. Ensure you wash your hands after playing outside or with your pet as you pick up this parasite by ingesting the eggs.
Tapeworm in humans
Contracting tapeworm from your pet is quite rare, but it’s still a risk to consider. Ingesting an infected flea will give you tapeworms, a nasty intestinal worm that causes nausea, diarrhoea and loss of appetite in humans. Keep an eye out for your dog ‘scooting’ their bottom across the ground as a sign of infection.
Hookworm in humans
Hookworm in humans is contracted from your pet when you walk with bare feet through soil contaminated with larvae. This variety can penetrate your skin and will lead to a very itchy rash at first and can then develop into abdominal pain, diarrhoea, anaemia and weight loss.
Symptoms of worms in humans
If you’re concerned that you;ve contracted worms from your pet, here are some of the symptoms to look out for in humans.
- Fatigue
- Abdominal pain
- Unusual weight loss
- Nausea and dizziness
- Lack of appetite
- Stomach bloating and pain
Worms in humans can have serious impacts on you and your families health, so it’s important to keep your pets well protected from parasites. If you think your dog has worms, take them to your local Greencross Vets to treat the condition. Make sure you keep your pet up-to-date with worming treatments to keep your pet and your family safe from worms.