How Can People Get Brain Worms? Here Are 4 Ways To Prevent Parasitic Infection

A recent case in Australia has made news internationally after doctors removed an 8cm-long live nematode (roundworm) from a woman's brain. The woman reported experiencing stomach symptoms, dry cough, night sweats, depression, and forgetfulness. The immunosuppressed woman may have been exposed to worm eggs through snake feces while gathering Warrigal greens.

Common Parasites That May Cause Infection

Parasitic infection is extremely common, and various common parasites can cause health issues, with distinct modes of transmission and effects on the body.

The Australian case contrasts with other reports of tapeworm larvae causing headaches due to neurocysticercosis, a condition where larval cysts form in the brain, leading to neurological symptoms.

The most prevalent form of parasitic worm is the pinworm (Enterobius vermicularis), also known as threadworm, believed to be found in over a billion people worldwide, especially children. Pinworms are human-specific parasites that cause intense itching and spread through person-to-person contact, dispelling the myth of pet transmission.

Another parasite is giardia, a water-borne parasite associated with poor sanitation, which leads to symptoms like diarrhea, cramps, and nausea. Two types of hookworms, Necator americanis and Ancylostoma duodenale, are soil-dwelling parasites affecting the bloodstream and digestive system. These worms can cause anemia due to nutrient consumption and blood clotting interference. However, they do not infect the brain.

Toxoplasma, with a global infection rate of 30-50%, forms cysts in the body and can cause severe issues in pregnant mothers and immunocompromised individuals.

Tapeworms can infect various body parts, including the brain, leading to neurocysticercosis and potentially causing epilepsy, particularly in locations with poor pork preparation practices.

Another parasite, Naegleria fowleri, is an amoeba found in warm waters. It enters the body through the nose during water activities and travels to the brain, causing severe and often fatal brain destruction.

4 Ways to Prevent Parasitic Infection

It might sound alarming, and the occurrence of a live worm in a person's brain is exceedingly rare - even more so when the worm is from a snake parasite. Nonetheless, parasites are present all around us. To reduce the risk of infection, consider these measures:

Cook Pork Thoroughly: To decrease the likelihood of infection, steer clear of undercooked or raw pork. Freezing meat before cooking may help lower the risk, although home freezers might not reach the necessary cold temperature. Ensure pork is cooked to a high internal temperature. Additionally, avoid pork consumption when traveling to areas with poor sanitation.
Be Cautious in Warm Waters: If you encounter warm bodies of fresh water, be cautious about diving or jumping in, particularly if these waters are known to carry Naegleria fowleri, an amoeba that enters the body through the nose. Even though reported cases are limited, assuming its presence is a prudent approach.
Prioritize Hand Hygiene: To mitigate the risk of both common and rare infections, establish good hand hygiene practices. Thoroughly wash your hands frequently, using soap. Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds, rinse them well, and ensure they are adequately dried. Pay attention to cleaning and clipping your fingernails regularly.
Protect Against Soil-Borne Parasites: In rural or remote regions, particularly where soil-borne parasites might be prevalent, take precautions by wearing shoes outside. After outdoor activities, wash your shoes and leave them outside, reducing the potential for bringing parasites indoors.