Who got infected with worms from a cat? - briefly
People who handle cats, especially those with poor hygiene practices, are at risk of contracting worms such as roundworms or tapeworms.
Who got infected with worms from a cat? - in detail
Humans can contract worms from cats through direct or indirect contact with the parasite’s eggs or larvae. Cats, particularly those that are outdoor or stray, can carry various types of intestinal worms, such as roundworms, tapeworms, and hookworms. These parasites can be transmitted to humans via contaminated feces, soil, or surfaces. For example, a person might accidentally ingest worm eggs by touching their mouth after handling a cat’s litter box, soil where a cat has defecated, or even the cat itself if it has eggs on its fur. Children are particularly at risk due to their tendency to play in dirt or sandboxes and their less frequent handwashing practices. Additionally, hookworm larvae can penetrate human skin, often through bare feet, leading to cutaneous larva migrans, a condition characterized by itchy, red tracks on the skin. Tapeworms can also be transmitted if a person ingests fleas infected with tapeworm larvae, which can occur during close contact with a cat. Symptoms of worm infections in humans vary depending on the type of parasite but can include abdominal pain, diarrhea, weight loss, and skin irritation. Preventive measures, such as regular deworming of cats, proper hygiene, and wearing shoes outdoors, are essential to minimize the risk of transmission.