The Serious Health Risks of Raccoon Roundworm: What You Need to Know
Raccoons might seem like harmless, curious creatures when they wander into our neighborhoods, but when they enter our homes, they can bring with them a host of serious health risks. One of the most concerning is raccoon roundworm, also known as Baylisascaris procyonis. This parasite poses significant dangers to both humans and pets. If you’ve had raccoons in or around your home, it’s crucial to understand the risks associated with this parasite and take steps to protect your family.
1. What is Raccoon Roundworm?
Raccoon roundworm (Baylisascaris procyonis) is a parasitic worm commonly found in the intestines of raccoons. While it may not cause much harm to raccoons themselves, it can be extremely dangerous to other animals and humans. The eggs of this parasite are shed in raccoon feces and can survive in the environment for years, making them a persistent threat.
2. How Does Raccoon Roundworm Spread?
The primary way raccoon roundworm spreads is through the accidental ingestion of eggs. These eggs can be found in soil, water, or on surfaces contaminated with raccoon feces. Young children, who are more likely to put their hands or objects in their mouths, are at particular risk. Pets can also ingest these eggs while sniffing or eating contaminated soil or feces.
3. The Dangers of Raccoon Roundworm to Humans
When humans ingest raccoon roundworm eggs, the larvae hatch in the intestines and can migrate to various parts of the body, including the brain, eyes, and other organs. This condition, known as Baylisascariasis, can cause severe and sometimes fatal health problems, including:
Neurological Damage: If the larvae reach the brain, they can cause serious neurological issues such as seizures, lack of coordination, and even coma.
Vision Loss: Larvae that migrate to the eyes can cause vision loss or blindness.
Organ Damage: The larvae can travel to other organs, causing damage and inflammation that can lead to serious health complications.
Early symptoms of Baylisascariasis can include nausea, fatigue, loss of coordination, and breathing difficulties, but as the larvae spread, the symptoms can become much more severe.
4. The Risk to Pets
Pets, especially dogs, are also at risk of contracting raccoon roundworm. Dogs may ingest the eggs while exploring areas where raccoons have been. If infected, pets can suffer from neurological damage similar to that seen in humans. Additionally, infected pets can contribute to the spread of the parasite within the household.
5. Prevention and Control: Keeping Your Home Safe
Preventing raccoon roundworm starts with keeping raccoons out of your home and yard. Here are some essential steps you can take:
Seal Entry Points: Inspect your home for any gaps, cracks, or openings that raccoons could use to enter. This includes areas around chimneys, vents, and rooflines. Seal these openings to prevent raccoons from gaining access.
Remove Attractants: Raccoons are attracted to easy food sources. Secure trash cans with tight-fitting lids, avoid leaving pet food outside, and clean up any fallen fruit or birdseed from your yard.
Clean Contaminated Areas: If raccoons have entered your home or left feces on your property, it’s crucial to clean the area thoroughly. Use gloves, masks, and a proper disinfectant to remove and destroy any eggs that may be present. Avoid disturbing the feces to prevent the eggs from becoming airborne.
6. When to Call a Professional
Dealing with raccoons and the potential threat of raccoon roundworm is not something you should handle on your own. If you suspect that raccoons have been in your home or are concerned about the risk of contamination, it’s essential to call a professional wildlife control service.
At 10-Eleven Nuisance Wildlife Control, we specialize in safely removing raccoons from homes while ensuring that all potential health risks, including raccoon roundworm, are addressed. Our team is trained to clean and decontaminate affected areas, reducing the risk of exposure to this dangerous parasite.
Conclusion
Raccoon roundworm is a serious health hazard that can have devastating consequences for both humans and pets. If you’ve noticed signs of raccoons in or around your home, it’s important to act quickly to prevent any potential exposure. Contact 10-Eleven Nuisance Wildlife Control today to schedule an inspection and ensure that your home is safe from the dangers posed by raccoon roundworm and other wildlife-related health risks.
