Summer and Parasites: What People Should Know
During the warmer months the chance of helminth infections rises because many parasites live in soil. This perspective was shared with socialbites by Andrey Pozdnyakov, a medical science candidate and infectious disease specialist who leads the clinical diagnostic laboratory at INVITRO-Siberia LLC.
Pozdnyakov notes that only a doctor can confirm a parasitic infection based on blood and stool tests, as only a few symptoms resemble those of other illnesses. He adds that testing should be considered when a clear symptom pattern appears and when there is a measurable rise in eosinophils, signaling possible parasitosis. If no symptoms are present, testing may not be necessary.
Anyone can be affected by parasites, regardless of age or existing health conditions. Risk largely hinges on hygiene practices and exposure to potentially contaminated foods. Occupational factors also play a key role in vulnerability.
For example, someone who frequently consumes brackish river fish is more prone to opisthorchiasis. This can also apply to consuming raw or undercooked meat like stroganina. Individuals whose work involves frequent contact with natural ecosystems face higher risk of helminth infections than those who work mainly indoors. Parasite transmission often occurs when eggs are ingested through dirty hands or through contaminated food. Children are especially prone to infections such as pinworms and roundworms due to frequent hand-to-mouth habits, more so than adults, Pozdnyakov explains.
Infections by parasites disrupt the body in several ways. They steal nutrients and essential vitamins and minerals, which can lead to deficiencies and affect organ systems, especially the digestive tract. In some cases these infestations can cause serious health issues.
Severe health crises can occur in large-scale invasions. A strong accumulation of roundworms can inflame the appendix or cause intestinal blockage, potentially requiring surgery. The liver fluke Opisthorchis, which can reside in the bile ducts for many years, heightens the risk of malignant tumors such as biliary tract cancer. Such cancers are highly serious and can be fatal. Heavy parasitic loads may also trigger anemia and a broad lack of nutrients, ultimately draining a person’s strength. The seriousness of a parasite infestation depends on the number of parasites and how quickly the infection is detected, Pozdnyakov cautions, based on clinical experience and studies.
Formerly socialbites.ca reported on why unclean dog feces on the street pose a danger to people. This context highlights the broader public health importance of parasite prevention and safe hygiene practices for households and workplaces in North America and beyond, as discussed by medical experts and health professionals at INVITRO-Siberia and related medical networks.