Parasitic Infections: The Silent Threat from Overlooked Environmental Factors

Parasitic Infections: The Silent Threat from Overlooked Environmental Factors

Common Types of Parasites in Thailand

1. Roundworms
   Examples: Ascaris lumbricoides (large roundworm), Enterobius vermicularis (pinworm), Ancylostoma duodenale (hookworm)

   • Transmission: Ingestion of parasite eggs through contaminated soil, food, or water

   • Health Effects: Diarrhea, abdominal pain, anemia

2. Flatworms
   Example: Opisthorchis viverrini (liver fluke)

   • Transmission: Consumption of raw or undercooked freshwater fish

   • Health Effects: Hepatitis, increased risk of cholangiocarcinoma (bile duct cancer)

3. Tapeworms
   Examples: Taenia saginata, Taenia solium

   • Transmission: Eating undercooked or raw beef or pork

   • Health Effects: Abdominal pain, passing of worm segments in stool; T. solium can lead to neurocysticercosis if it migrates to the brain

Symptoms of Parasitic Infections

Symptoms vary depending on the type and burden of parasitic infection. Common signs include:

• Abdominal discomfort, bloating, and chronic diarrhea

• Fatigue and unintended weight loss

• Anal itching at night (particularly in pinworm infections)

• Iron-deficiency anemia (commonly seen in hookworm infections)

• Jaundice or liver enlargement (associated with liver flukes)

Prevention Guidelines

1. Avoid Raw or Undercooked Foods

   • Refrain from eating raw freshwater fish such as fermented or pickled fish

   • Only consume thoroughly cooked beef or pork

2. Maintain Personal Hygiene

   • Wash hands with soap before eating and after using the toilet

   • Use sanitary toilet facilities

3. Control Sources of Transmission

   • Avoid defecating on open ground

   • Deworm pets and manage animal waste properly

4. Drink Safe Water

• • Use only boiled or filtered and sterilized drinking water

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis

• Stool examination remains the gold standard for diagnosing most parasitic infections

• In some cases, blood tests or radiologic imaging may be required

Treatment

• Medical treatment involves antiparasitic drugs tailored to the specific parasite:

  • Albendazole or Mebendazole for roundworm infections

  • Praziquantel for flatworm infections

• Proper dosage and duration under a physician’s guidance are crucial

• In chronic cases, supportive care may be needed to manage complications such as anemia or malnutrition