Be aware of parasites

The parasitic worm called Strongyloides stercoralis (don’t you just love the names we give to parasites?!) is often missed in travellers from South East Asia.

This parasite causes a disease called Strongyloidiasis (now, who can say that, let alone spell it?), this disease is widespread in remote Australian Aboriginal communities and endemic in several South East Asian countries, especially Vietnam. It is not rare in war veterans from Vietnam. It should be a notifiable disease.

The disease spreads through skin contact with feces-contaminated soil, and is effectively treated with the drug called Ivermectin, which is taken orally.

The parasite can remain undetected for decades and can cause:

• Intermittent diarrhea
• Skin rashes
• Cough or wheezing

Tests for Strongyloides stercoralis

It is discovered by blood test which checks serology for Strongyloides

Dangers of Strongloides

This parasite can cause unpleasant bowel symptoms and general poor health but is usually not fatal UNLESS an undiagnosed patient is given steroid drugs such as prednisone or cortisone. These steroid drugs enable the parasite to become super strong so it can cause deadly septicemia (blood infection) or failure of multiple organs. It can even invade the brain.

Much more awareness of parasites is needed to prevent such disasters.

Reference