Ascariasis
Summary/Definition
Ascariasis is a parasitic infectious disease, the causative agent of which are ascaris eggs (Ascaris lumbricoides).
It is possible to become infected with ascarids through vegetables, kimchi, water or soil where the eggs of these parasites are present. Ascarids are long, thin parasites whose infection can be accompanied by a variety of symptoms, including diarrhea, abdominal pain, vomiting and weight loss. From December 2010 in the Republic of Korea, ascariasis was recognized as an official infectious disease, and its spread is being selectively monitored. However, the number of cases of ascariasis registered annually remains low and amounts to about 10 cases.
Symptoms
The incubation period of ascariasis averages about 70 days. If ascaris larvae are in the small intestine, this may be accompanied by symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting and bloating. If roundworm larvae get into organs other than the intestine, complications may occur, including jaundice, the formation of gallstones, obstruction of the bile ducts and appendicitis.
Diagnostics
Ascariasis is relatively easy to diagnose by detecting ascariid eggs through stool analysis.
Treatment and course of the disease
Drug treatment is carried out once with a dose of 400 mg of albendazole. To prevent ascariasis, it is important to observe hygiene rules, for example, regular hand washing, careful processing of vegetables and fruits before consumption, abstinence from consuming contaminated water. In addition, it is recommended to maintain an active lifestyle and follow a balanced diet to prevent constipation. Special attention should be paid to the prevention of soil and vegetable contamination. To prevent soil contamination, it is necessary to take measures such as sanitary disposal of human excrement.
