Toxocara
This Toxocara roundworm is found in cats and dogs. Its eggs are passed on in their faeces so your child is at risk when he plays on ground where animals have defecated.
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Your child can ingest the eggs if he puts his dirty hands into his mouth. The eggs burrow through the intestinal wall and are carried in the bloodstream to the lungs. They are then coughed up, swallowed and continue to develop in the intestines. There are generally no symptoms, although if your child has more than one worm he may have abdominal pain and suffer from a loss of appetite.
What to do
Prevention is better than cure. Don't allow pets into your child's play area at home and take care when you go to public parks. If your child is diagnosed as having toxocara he will be prescribed a medicine to get rid of it. Follow the instructions carefully. The most serious effects of this illness involve the eyes so your child may need to see a specialist.
New Babycare
Copyright © 2009 Dorling Kindersley
Text copyright © 2009 Miriam Stoppard
Posted 03.11.2010
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