Beware of the Very Painful Rat Lungworm Disease

Beware of the Very Painful Rat Lungworm Disease

Rat lungworm disease or angiostrongyliasis has recently struck the islands of Hawaii. In fact, the Hawaii State Department of Health has validated six cases of the disease on the Big Island. While there are no recent deaths reported, but there were two people who died from rat lungworm since 2007.  It is scary as to how the health department still cannot confirm how the patients contracted the disease. However, rat lungworm is known to be acquired when there are parasites that are found in raw or even undercooked slugs and snails.

Things to Know about Rat Lungworm Disease

Since our health is a concern here, we should be aware of what this disease is about to know what to do, especially in remaining safe.

1. What is rat lungworm disease?

Rat lungworm is scientifically known as Angiostrongylus cantonensis, which is a type of parasitic worm. It is called so because the parasite is found in rats. The larvae of the parasite will be passed through the feces of the rats. Snails and slugs ingest the larvae of the parasites as they consume the feces of the rats.

2. How do humans get infected?

When a person eats raw or undercooked slugs or snails, they also become infected by rat lungworm parasite. It is also possible to become infected if the person eats raw produce, such as lettuce since they can also be contaminated by the slugs or snails.

3. What are the symptoms of rat lungworm disease?

The symptoms can vary from one person to another, but the most common signs that a person has the disease include paralysis, coma, and cold and flu-like symptoms. Death is rare, but can also happen.

4. How common or rare is the disease?

Health authorities say the disease is quite rare. In fact, there have been one to nine cases yearly since 2007 in Hawaii with only two deaths. But the disease can go undetected because the symptoms can mimic other conditions, such as cold and flu. One can have a headache, nausea, or a stiff neck. These symptoms usually appear after one to three weeks of exposure and can last anywhere from two weeks to several months.

5. Is it possible to prevent the disease?

Rat lungworm disease is terrifying as it can lead to paralysis, coma, and even death. Fortunately, it is fairly preventable. The best way to stay protected is to cook food very well, especially vegetables. Cook or heat the produce in at least 165 degrees F and you should freeze them as well for at least 48 hours. These two methods can effective kill parasites and bacteria. If you’re going to consume raw veggies, it is imperative to clean them thoroughly.

Like any other disease, prevention is always better than cure with rat lungworm disease. Aside from watching out for the produce with the highest levels of pesticide residue, always be careful of what you plan to eat, especially raw ones.