| Common
Questions |
Rabies | Roundworm (Baylisascaris procyonis) |
|---|---|---|
| What is it? | Rabies is a deadly viral infection. All mammals including humans can get rabies. Animals most often infected include raccoons, skunks, foxes, bats, and woodchucks. | Roundworm is a potentially dangerous parasite commonly found in the small intestine of raccoons. The larvae invade tissues of humans and other animals. |
| How can I be infected? | By:
|
By accidentally ingesting roundworm eggs (shed in raccoon droppings) from contaminated areas. Adult humans can probably ingest a few eggs and suffer no symptoms. If, however, large numbers of eggs are ingested, severe central nervous system damage, eye damage, or even death can result. |
| How can I prevent infection? | Do not touch or pick up live or dead wild animals. Ensure that your pets and livestock are vaccinated against rabies. Do not allow pets to roam freely, day or night. If your pet has been bitten or had contact with a potentially rabid animal, wear gloves while handling your pet and contact your veterinarian for further instructions. (In addition, use measures listed on reverse side under "Control".) | Small children are particularly vulnerable because they will put almost anything into their mouths. Children should be taught to recognize raccoon latrine areas and should not be allowed to play in or near them. These areas typically occur at the base of trees, on fallen logs, large rocks, and woodpiles, and in barns (especially haylofts) and other outbuildings. By observing a few common sense rules, the chances of becoming infected with the parasite can be effectively limited (follow suggestions listed on reverse side under "Control"). |
| What should I do if exposed? | DO NOT wait for symptoms to appear. Rabies is fatal when it reaches that stage. Wash the exposed area with soap and water for at least 10 minutes. Call your doctor and local health department immediately. There is no need to panic. Vaccinations for rabies (which are received in the arm) are completely effective. | Assess the risk of infection (ingestion of eggs). Seek medical advice and let the practitioner know (especially for an eye or nervous system problem) that infection by roundworm may be a possibility. |
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