Human Tapeworm Information

Tapeworms are parasitic flatworms that infect the digestive systems of humans and animals. They attach themselves to the wall of the intestine, and live off the nutrients provided by the host's body.

Types

• According to the Mayo Clinic, humans are most often infected with the pork (Taenia solium), beef (Taenia saginata), fish (Diphyllobothrium latum), and dwarf (Hymenolepis nana) tapeworms. The eMedicine website notes that humans are also susceptible to the dog tapeworm Dipylidium caninum and the rodent tapeworm Hymenolepis nana.

Causes

• Fish, beef and pork tapeworms are transmitted through the consumption of raw or undercooked meat and freshwater fish. Dwarf tapeworms infect people who accidentally ingest food that has been contaminated with human feces. Dog tapeworms most commonly affect children, and are transmitted through ingesting fleas. Rodent tapeworms are passed through contact with, or ingestion of, infected insects such as beetles, fleas or cockroaches.

Symptoms and Treatment

• Many infected people have no symptoms, according to the Mayo Clinic. Generalized symptoms include weight loss, nausea and diarrhea. The preferred treatment for tapeworms is a de-worming medication. Using proper handwashing techniques, and fully cooking food before eating it, helps to prevent the spread of this disease.