Hookworms cause a parasitic infection through a variety of hookworm species including a. braziliense, a. caninum and u. stenocephala. In dogs, these worms attach to the walls of the small intestine and suck blood and tissue, which, in large infestations, can result in severe blood loss. Hookworms are a zoonotic parasite, meaning they can infect other species, such as humans. While you can get a hookworm infection from an infected dog, how you contract the worms is typically through indirect contact.
Hookworm Transmission in Dogs
Hookworm larvae pass through the feces of infected animals, allowing the larvae to enter soil and water. Infection occurs when dogs ingest larvae through contaminated food or water or eat an infected animal or feces. Larvae and adult worms are able to penetrate the skin, so dogs lying or walking on infected soil can acquire an infestation this way. Mother dogs also can pass a hookworm infection to fetuses.
Hookworm Transmission in Humans
The common method of transmission to humans is through skin penetration. If an infected dog has passed eggs or larvae in their stool, these enter the soil or water in the yard. By walking barefoot or sitting in the grass, hookworms can penetrate your skin. Unlike an infestation in a dog, hookworms stay under the surface of human skin, causing red lines and itchiness. The condition disappears within a few days after the larvae die.
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Deborah Lundin is a professional writer with more than 20 years of experience in the medical field and as a small business owner. She studied medical science and sociology at Northern Illinois University. Her passions and interests include fitness, health, healthy eating, children and pets.