Dog roundworm is a common health issue, especially for those who own pets such as dogs and cats. This article will provide you with information about dog roundworm, including its signs, symptoms, and treatment options.
1. What is Dog Roundworm?
Dog roundworm, scientifically known as Toxocara, is a dangerous type of roundworm that is commonly found in the small intestines of puppies under six months old, especially those living in tropical regions.
Dog roundworms can also develop in the lungs, small intestines, and other internal organs of puppies. Additionally, when a pregnant dog ingests roundworm eggs, the infection can be transmitted to her unborn puppies through the placenta. Each day, a female roundworm can produce approximately 200,000 eggs, which are then passed in the dog’s feces and can survive in the environment for several months.
When these eggs are ingested by another dog, they will develop into larvae within the dog’s body, usually within five months. Each larvae can contain up to 2 million roundworm heads, and when they break open, the heads will travel through the bloodstream to various vital organs, including the liver, lungs, and brain.
Be sure to check out our other articles to learn more about the causes of this disease, as well as prevention and treatment methods to keep your furry friend healthy!
2. Is Dog Roundworm Contagious? Can it be Transmitted from Person to Person?
This is an important concern for dog owners, especially those with young children. The answer is yes, dog roundworm can be transmitted to both adults and children, and it can cause serious complications.
As mentioned earlier, if your dog accidentally consumes food contaminated with roundworm eggs from another infected animal, it will become infected. Roundworms can also be transmitted through contact with dog feces, as they may be present in the dog’s paws, especially under their nails.
If your dog accidentally scratches you while playing or licks an open wound, the roundworms present in their nails or saliva can enter your body and cause an infection.
It is important to note that dog roundworm is not directly transmitted from person to person. However, the eggs can contaminate vegetables in your garden or even raw foods. If you do not thoroughly wash your produce or treat it with potassium permanganate or saline solution, there is a risk of ingesting the eggs and becoming infected.
To prevent infection, it is crucial to practice good hygiene and always wash your hands before handling food. Additionally, always cook your food thoroughly and avoid consuming raw or undercooked meat, such as sushi or rare steak.
3. Signs and Symptoms of Dog Roundworm Infection in Humans
Dog roundworm infections can be difficult to detect, but there are some common symptoms to look out for:
– Fatigue, irritability, loss of appetite, weight loss, and wheezing.
– Asthma, pneumonia, and difficulty breathing if the roundworms migrate to the lungs.
– Eye inflammation or retinal damage if the roundworms reach the eyes.
– Seizures, headaches, abnormal movements, behavioral disorders, and paralysis if the roundworms migrate to the brain.
– Bruising, hives, skin lumps, and swelling if the roundworms migrate under the skin.
– Itching and rashes.
– Abdominal pain, headaches, and indigestion.
– Muscle pain, numbness, and tingling.
Other possible symptoms include enlarged liver, chronic abdominal pain, pneumonia, localized nerve damage, vision problems, eye damage, and retinal inflammation.
4. How Dangerous is Dog Roundworm?
How dangerous is dog roundworm?
While dog roundworm is not directly transmitted from person to person, the risk of infection is high. Moreover, once inside the human body, the larvae can migrate to various organs, including the liver, lungs, eyes, and brain, causing serious health issues.
- Eye damage: This is commonly seen in children between the ages of 5 and 10, with symptoms including reduced vision in one eye. If left untreated, it can lead to strabismus or blindness.
- Organ damage: Roundworm infections can cause liver necrosis, enlarged liver and spleen, myocarditis, and kidney inflammation.
- Central nervous system damage: If the larvae migrate to the brain, they can cause seizures, mental disorders, and even death.
5. Treatment for Dog Roundworm
According to Master’s degree holder and physician, Dr. Nguyen Thi My from Vinmec International Hospital, if you notice any signs or symptoms of dog roundworm infection, it is important to seek medical attention at a hospital for timely and accurate diagnosis and treatment advice.
In addition to taking medication to eliminate the roundworms, it is recommended to use supportive medications to manage the symptoms and ensure a faster and more comprehensive recovery.
The average treatment duration for dog roundworm is one to three months, with medication taken for 7 to 15 days each month, followed by a check-up after each course. The treatment plan may vary depending on the severity of the infection.
6. Prevention of Dog Roundworm
For Children:
It is crucial to ensure that children do not play with dirt, eat soil, or put their hands, toys, or other objects in their mouths. Keep them away from dogs to minimize the risk of infection.
If they have been playing with a dog, make sure to supervise them and immediately wash their hands with soap or sanitizer. Educate your children about the importance of proper handwashing before eating and always cooking food thoroughly.
For Adults:
– Wash your hands thoroughly after handling soil or playing with your pet dog.
– Clean and disinfect fruits and vegetables before consumption, and avoid eating raw or undercooked meat.
– If possible, avoid direct contact with dogs or cats. Regularly deworm your pets and yourself to reduce the risk of infection. Keep your dog on a leash when outside to minimize contact with contaminated environments.
We hope that this article has provided you with valuable information about dog roundworm. Remember to take the necessary precautions to keep yourself and your loved ones safe from this parasitic infection.
