Is Hookworm Contagious?

A hookworm is a parasite that can infect humans, cats, and dogs. A hookworm infection is typically not serious, but it can pose a significant risk if the infection is severe. This type of infection is not contagious, but it can be transmitted easily.

Symptoms

• The symptoms of a hookworm infection include an itch and irritation found where the larvae entered the skin. Once the larvae is in the body, the common symptoms include stomach pain, diarrhea, and weight loss.

Transmission

• According to the Centers for Disease Control, hookworms are not transmitted from human to human. A hookworm infection can be contracted through contact with infected soil or by ingesting hookworm larvae.

Geography

• Hookworms are typically found in warm, humid climates, which allows them to live easily in the soil. The hookworm species Necator Americanus is found primarily in Australia and North and South America, while the species Ancylostoma duodenale is found primarily in northern Africa, the Middle East, and southern Europe.

Risk Factors

• Children are at a high risk of contracting a hookworm infection due to their tendency to eschew footwear and play in dirt. Adults can also contract hookworm.

Prevention

• Always wearing shoes when walking outside and ensuring that your children do not eat soil, whether it's infected or not, is the best way to avoid contracting a hookworm infection and to keep it from spreading.