CDC Reports Prevalence of Worms Transmitted by Dogs and Cats to Humans is Higher than Previously Understood
Bel Air, Md. (PRWEB) November 6, 2007 -- About 14 percent of the U.S. population is infected with Toxocara, or internal roundworms, contracted from dogs and cats. That's according to the results of a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) study announced today at the American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene in Philadelphia.
The CDC study shows the transmission of Toxocara from dogs and cats to people is most common in young children and youth under age 20, and more common in non-Hispanic Blacks than in Mexican Americans and non-Hispanic Whites of all age groups. It is highest in lower socioeconomic and less-educated populations. All children, however, are more susceptible to infection given their propensity to play in and sometimes eat contaminated soil.
Infections are acquired by accidental ingestion of Toxocara eggs found in environments contaminated with feces of infected dogs and cats. This includes play areas and sandboxes.
"The results of this study demonstrate that Toxocara infection in the United States is more widespread and common than previously understood," said Peter Schantz, VMD, PhD, an epidemiologist in the Division of Parasitic Diseases at the CDC and a founding board member of the Companion Animal Parasite Council (CAPC). "Although most persons infected with Toxocara have no apparent symptoms, this infectious agent is capable of causing blindness and other serious systemic illness, which makes it a public health issue."
While rare, the visual impairment most often affects children. Since toxocariasis is not a reportable infection, true numbers of cases of visual impairment and other syndromes are not known, according to Schantz.
The nonprofit CAPC was formed to educate pet owners about zoonotic disease and steps they can take to virtually eliminate the risk of pets making people sick.
"The CAPC recommends that pet owners administer year-round preventive medicines that control internal and external parasites - such as roundworms, heartworm, fleas and ticks - for the life of their dog or cat no matter where they live," said Michael Paul, DVM, executive director of the CAPC. "If you prevent parasitic infections in companion animals, you greatly reduce the chances of zoonotic transmission to people."
The American Animal Hospital Association, the American Association of Feline Practitioners and Schantz of the CDC all endorse the CAPC guidelines that call for year-round parasite control in companion animals to protect both pets and people from zoonotic disease. Parasite control today is simple, safe and effective. Treating dogs and cats for parasites with a monthly product is one of the easiest and most effective ways to keep pets healthy and eliminate related health risks to humans.
Despite the availability of effective treatments to prevent them, parasites - some deadly - remain a common fact of life for dogs and cats. Most companion animals have the potential for exposure to parasites all year long. Experts agree there is a year-round threat in all regions of the country, even those that experience below-freezing temperatures, since parasites such as fleas and ticks thrive inside homes regardless of weather conditions outdoors.
Novartis Animal Health US, Inc. funded the CDC toxocara study.
About the CAPC:
The nonprofit CAPC (www.petsandparasites.org) is an independent council of veterinarians and other animal health care professionals established to create guidelines for the optimal control of internal and external parasites that threaten the health of pets and people. It brings together broad expertise in parasitology, internal medicine, public health, veterinary law, private practice and association leadership
About the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
As the sentinel for the health of people in the United States and throughout the world, CDC (www.cdc.gov) strives to protect people's health and safety, provide reliable health information, and improve health through strong partnerships. For more information on Toxocara infection, visit.http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dpd/parasites/toxocara/factsht_toxocara.htm As a federal agency, CDC does not promote or endorse specific products.
# # #
Related Articles:
VIP.com Releases Odds for Westminster Kennel Dog Show
Online sportsbook offering odds on the upcoming Westminster Kennel Dog show. Here are some of the odds available: 1. Which dog will be the Best in Show winner? 2. What sex will the Best in Show winner be? 3. Which group will produce the Best in Show winner? 4. What will the age of the winner be?
Dog Treadmill - Tips On Choosing And Using A Treadmill With Your Dog
Looking for a dog treadmill
With the popularity of shows like the Dog Whisperer and people's hectic lifestyles, treadmills for dogs have surged in popularity
Dr. Dennis Fetko, "Dr. Dog", Publishes His First Dog Training Ebook
World-renowned animal behaviorist, Dr. Dennis Fetko, "Dr. Dog", publishes his first ebook on eliminating dog behavior problems. Dr. Fetko launches ebook publication with single-purpose website, http://www.DrDogsBehaviorSolutions.com
Advantages and Factors in Choosing a Dog Kennel
One clear advantage in choosing a dog kennel to board your pet at whilst you are on holiday is that the staff are trained to find signs of illness that friends and neighbors are not. Some signs of illness are quite difficult to spot to the untrained eye. These include:
Promo Only MPE is 'Top Dog' in Country Music
Signs Contract with Toby Keith’s Record Label Show Dog Nashville for Digital Distribution
Is Your Dog Charging After the Door When a Person Knocks?
A very irritating habit of many puppies is one that charges the door when a guest knocks Since the puppy is likely to run faster than a person, he thinks it's out of your range and only under your voice control
One Lucky Winner Will Win a Pet Stroller in JustPetStroller.com's "Stroll Your Cat or Dog Sweepstakes"
JustPetStrollers.com, the nation's first and most complete online retailer of high-quality pet strollers, has launched the "Stroll Your Cat or Dog Sweepstakes" where one lucky person will win a free pet stroller. The lucky winner may select his or her preferred dog or cat stroller from a list of the highest-quality stroller brands, including Pet Gear, Petzip, Jeep, Kittywalk, and Pet Valet.
Do You Know About Boxer Dogs?
Boxer Dogs Information - What Are Boxer Dogs? Boxer dogs are great all around dog breeds, distinguished canine and the coolest, most lovable dog out there! Boxer Dogs are medium-built and strong breed that are so named because of its habit of standing on the hind legs to begin a fight and boxing with the front paws. By nature, Boxer dogs are working dogs.
Does Your Dog Look Like he is Suffering From Stress? 6 Easy Ideas to De-stress Your Dog
The long term impacts of stress have long been overlooked when it comes to our pets In a human being, stress can result in health issues, it can interfere in our relationships with others, and we may become unbalanced, irritable and aggressive towards those around us
Symptoms of Pain and Illness in Dogs
Dog owners, who recognize the early signs and symptoms of illness or pain in their dogs, will not only relieve their loved one's suffering but may also be able to save themselves an expensive trip to the veterinarian. Not only is it important to recognize these signs early to relieve pain and suffering, but it is much more effective to treat an illness when it is detected early.