Deadly Parasite Discovered in Florida Snails
According to a study published by the University of Florida, a dangerous parasite has been found in rats and snails in the South Florida region. The rare parasite which could cause serious health risks in human beings was discovered to be more pervasive along the South Florida coastline than previously thought.
The Angiostrongylus cantonensis parasite, commonly known as the 'rat lungworm' was found infested in multiple species of snails in Miami, which also includes the giant African land snail. It should be noted that the parasite is dangerous only if eaten.
It could possibly lead to a fatal form of meningitis. Upon consumption, they reach all the way to the central nervous system where they finally die. The parasite has been reported to cause severe headaches in people and in some cases, even paralysis.
Scientists are currently testing different species of snails across the state to determine the geographic range of the parasite. The study originally began with the death of a privately owned orang-utan in 2012. The primate had a habit of eating snails and exhibited several neurological symptoms during examination.
People can avoid infections provided they wash and cook the snails thoroughly before consumption. Care should be taken to ensure that the snails are not eaten off the ground. This makes dogs and other animals particularly vulnerable to the disease and make sure to keep an eye on your pets.
Professor of parasitology at University of Florida's College of Veterinary Medicine and lead author of the study, Heather Walden said, "Humans can't become infected with this parasite unless they eat an undercooked or raw snail."
