What is ascaride?

Ascaris is a genus of roundworm parasites that infect the small intestine of humans and animals. Ascaris lumbricoides is the most common species that infects humans. The infection is widespread in developing countries with poor sanitation and hygiene practices.

Ascaris eggs are passed in the feces of an infected person or animal and then can contaminate soil or water sources. If a person ingests food or water contaminated with Ascaris eggs, the larvae hatch and migrate to the small intestine, where they grow into adult worms.

Symptoms of Ascaris infection include abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and weight loss. In severe cases, the worms can cause intestinal blockages or migrate to other parts of the body, such as the lungs or liver.

Treatment of Ascaris infection involves medication such as albendazole or mebendazole, which kill the adult worms. Preventing infection involves improving sanitation practices, such as washing hands frequently and using proper waste disposal methods.