A 65-year-old woman from Quảng Ninh, Ms. Nguyễn Thị L., experienced significant health issues due to parasite infection from her pet. This concerning case highlights the potential dangers of canine and feline roundworm infections, necessitating public awareness.
Symptoms and Treatment Process
Ms. L. experienced symptoms such as upper abdominal pain, frequent bowel movements, and persistent skin itching for over a month. After treatment at a primary care hospital, the condition worsened and recurred. She experienced frequent bowel movements (25-26 times/day) with watery and loose stools. She also developed itchy rashes and circular marks on her skin, indicating parasitic movement beneath the skin.
Due to the severe condition and skin lesions, Ms. L. was transferred to the Central Institute of Tropical Diseases Hospital. Tests revealed a diagnosis of large liver fluke and canine/feline roundworm infection. Her IgE levels soared to 1,652 IU/mL, 16 times the normal level, reflecting a strong immune response to the parasites. Eosinophils also significantly increased, further indicating an inflammatory condition due to the parasites.
After a week of treatment at the hospital, Ms. L.’s health stabilized. She was prescribed outpatient treatment and required at least three follow-up visits within six months to monitor treatment effectiveness and reduce the risk of reinfection.
Cause and Role of Pets
Ms. L.’s case clearly demonstrates the link between pet ownership and parasite infection. She owned a large dog (approximately 25 kg) that had shown signs of vomiting worms, but the family did not prioritize addressing this issue and continued close contact without protective measures like gloves or footwear when handling waste. This significantly increased the risk of parasites being transmitted from the pet to the human.
Prevention Measures
Dr. Trần Thị Hải Ninh, Head of the Internal Medicine Department, stresses the importance of preventing canine/feline roundworm infections, particularly for pet owners:
- Regular deworming: The most crucial step is to regularly deworm dogs and cats to prevent parasite transmission.
- Environmental hygiene: Maintain a clean environment for pets, especially areas where they frequently defecate.
- Use gloves and footwear: Always wear gloves and footwear when interacting with pets, especially when cleaning up waste.
- Thorough washing: Thoroughly wash clothes and pet supplies after contact with the pets.
- Hand hygiene: Wash hands thoroughly before eating and after contact with pets or potentially contaminated areas.
- Sanitation: Regularly disinfect floors using disinfectants to eliminate parasites.
Conclusion
Ms. L.’s case serves as a warning about the potential dangers of parasitic infections from pets. Adhering to these simple preventive measures will significantly contribute to the health and well-being of pet owners and the wider community.
Woman experiencing digestive problems, skin irritation… due to pet
