Parasitic infections are one of the most misunderstood diseases, largely due to portrayals in media and popular culture. Unlike the parasites depicted in print media and television shows, which are seen as controlling and manipulating hosts, real-life parasites tend to affect us differently, causing significant health issues, including severe illness and death. This article aims to dispel common myths surrounding parasitic infections, promoting better understanding and prevention of these problematic organisms. Here are seven misconceptions about parasitic infections and their contrasting realities:
Myth #1: Parasites are only contracted from unclean food or water
Parasitic infections are commonly contracted through contaminated food or water, but these are not the only sources. Parasites can also be transmitted through insect bites, direct contact with contaminated soil and water, blood, and even sexual contact. Insect bites can transmit parasites as certain insects act as vectors for disease. One of the most prevalent mosquito-borne parasitic infections is malaria, considered a major public health concern especially in rural Asia and Africa.
Myth #2: Parasitic infections are exclusive to developing countries
Parasitic infections are common in tropical and subtropical regions, particularly in developing countries. However, it is important to note that parasites are found worldwide, including in developed countries which have access to clean drinking water and good sanitation. E.g. Giardiasis is a parasitic disease caused by exposure to river water and run-off waters, encountered by hikers and water sports enthusiasts in North America. Consumption of raw fish in Japan is a major cause of parasitosis. Anyone can be at risk of a parasitic infection, especially those who have travelled to regions with high rates of parasitic infections (endemic areas), practise poor hygiene, or have a compromised immune system. Increased travel has facilitated the introduction of parasites to countries all over the world.
Myth #3: Poor hygiene is the only cause of parasitic infections
That said, good hygiene can reduce the risk of parasitic infections, but it does not eliminate it entirely. Even those who practise good hygiene can contract parasitic infections through the consumption of contaminated food and water. Getting bitten by insects is also another way for parasites to enter the body e.g. filariasis which is caused by mosquito bites.
Myth #4: Parasitic infections are always easily noticeable
Some parasitic infections cause severe and debilitating symptoms that are difficult to ignore, while others can have very mild symptoms that are easily overlooked. For example, malaria can cause fever, chills and abdominal pain, and tapeworm infections can lead to a loss of appetite, anaemia, nausea and diarrhoea. On the other hand, giardiasis is known for its asymptomatic development, which can facilitate its spread to others. Parasitic infections that go unnoticed for long periods of time can slowly cause health issues if not treated promptly e.g. helminthiasis (worms).
Myth #5: All parasites are invisible to the naked eye
Some parasites classified as helminths, such as adult tapeworms, flatworms and pinworms, can be seen without a microscope. Protozoa, conversely, are single-celled, microscopic organisms that require specific tests for detection and diagnosis. This includes stool microscopy, biopsy, DNA amplification tests, etc¹.
Myth #6: Parasitic infections are always curable
Most parasitic infections can be treated with medication, but some can cause persistent health issues if not addressed promptly or properly. Some symptoms and complications of these infections, such as organ failure, can be fatal e.g. parasitosis affecting vital organs like brain, liver, lungs, etc.) While not always curable, timely intervention to manage these challenges is crucial for preventing severe outcomes and facilitating recovery.
Myth #7: Parasitic infections are extremely uncommon
Parasitic infections are more common than we think. The World Health Organisation estimates that approximately 25% of people worldwide² have at any time experienced an infection linked to an intestinal parasite. Among the most common human parasites are those causing gastrointestinal infections, such as Giardia lamblia and hookworms. Additionally, parasites like Plasmodium and Toxoplasma gondii can affect other parts of the body. Toxoplasmosis can remain dormant in the body for a long time. Some parasitosis can be transmitted by pregnant women to their newborns e.g. toxoplasmosis, malaria, etc.
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References
- Parasitic Infections Specialists in Singapore. ID Specialists. https://idspecialists.sg/infections-treatments/parasitic-infections/. Accessed July 15, 2024.
- What Are Intestinal Parasites? Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/intestinal-parasites. Accessed July 15, 2024.