MEXICO: A dangerous parasite that can produce serious health issues in humans, previously found in snails that have infested South Florida, is even more widespread than previously thought, experts say.
Previously detected in invasive giant African snails, the tiny worm parasite that can strike humans, dogs, horses and birds with a potentially fatal disease has been found in three more non-native species in snails in the state, researchers at the University of Florida say.
The parasite, which can also be carried by rats, is known as the rat lungworm.
Following the initial discovery, researchers say they have been engaged in testing snails throughout the state to try and determine how far the parasite may have spread.
“Determining the geographic distribution of this parasite in Florida is important, due to the hazards to human health,” says Heather Walden, an assistant professor of parasitology in the university’s college of veterinary medicine.
The research was initiated when a privately owned orangutan in the Miami area, which was known to eat snails, began to exhibit neurological symptoms in 2012.
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