Lymphatic filariasis is a parasitic disease common to tropical areas worldwide. It is caused by microscopic worms that infect the human lymph system – the system that fights infections and balances fluids in your body. People suffering from the disease may have lymphedema (swelling from fluid build-up) and elephantiasis (engorgement and thickened skin, often of the leg). Learn to

Cysticercosis is a tissue infection of pork tapeworms (Taenia solium). The condition is caused by ingestion of tapeworm eggs through food, drink, or direct contact. To prevent cysticercosis, always wash your hands and encourage others to do so as well. Peel and rinse your produce thoroughly before consumption. Avoid eating pork or other meats unless they’re cooked thoroughly. If you are

Experts say most hookworm infections occur when you walk barefoot on contaminated soil, but it's also possible to get an infection if you ingest worm larvae. Hookworms are parasitic worms that live in soil that's been exposed to infected feces. Research suggests you may not have any symptoms with a hookworm infection, but common symptoms include abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, nausea,

Research suggests that humans may get tapeworms from eating undercooked beef or pork, as well as contaminated water or fish. After you ingest the tapeworm egg or larvae, it may latch onto your intestines. Experts say that symptoms are usually mild or go unnoticed, so you might not even realize you're infected. However, you may develop symptoms like abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, lack

The dwarf tapeworm (Hymenolepis nana) is a parasite found worldwide. Infection from these tapeworms most commonly affects children, persons living in institutional settings, and people living in conditions of poor sanitation/hygiene. Symptoms for this parasite's infection can be hard to recognize immediately, and are often misdiagnosed as other diseases--such as pin-worms. However,

Pinworms (aka threadworms) live in human intestines. Small, white, and round, a pinworm is a parasite that looks like a short piece of white cotton thread when seen. Found worldwide, the pinworm tends to infect mainly children and, while not dangerous, can be a nuisance that causes a wide range of discomforting symptoms.

Ivermectin is an antihelminthic medication that can be used to treat worms inside your body or mites on your body. Typically, oral ivermectin is used to treat worms, while topical ivermectin is prescribed for head lice, scabies, or other external conditions. The good news is, it usually only takes a single oral or topical dose to do the job and kill the nasty little critters! Ivermectin