Belgium has reported six cases of raccoon roundworm for the first time, a parasite that can cause neurologic and ocular disease in humans. The worms were found in raccoons in Wallonia, sparking concerns about the spread of the disease to humans. The biggest risk group for the parasitic disease are young children aged between 1-4 years old, as they may put contaminated objects in their mouths.
The parasite’s eggs can be found in raccoon droppings, fur, and direct environment, posing a risk to humans and animals. Belgium’s raccoon population is estimated to be between 50,000 and 75,000, and similar cases have been reported in France, Germany, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands.
Preventive measures to avoid getting sick include avoiding contact with raccoons, supervising children to prevent them from eating soil, keeping dogs on a leash in forested areas, and ensuring that berries are picked from more than 50cm off the ground. The Dutch National Institute for Health and Environment has issued a warning about the parasite’s spread across the Netherlands, emphasizing the importance of intervention to contain the raccoon population.
With the potential for further spread of the disease, it is crucial for individuals to take precautions to protect themselves and their families from infection. By raising awareness and implementing preventive measures, the risk of raccoon roundworm transmission can be reduced.
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