Whip worm parasite

Some information about Trichuris trichiura (whipworm) parasite found in contaminated water:

• General characteristics: Whipworm is a parasitic roundworm that lives in the human large intestine. It is about 4 centimeters long and has a whip-like appearance, hence the name. The adult female worms lay eggs that are passed in the stool. These eggs can survive in the soil for several months and can be ingested by other people through contaminated food or water.
• Treatment: Whipworm infection is treatable with medication, such as mebendazole or albendazole. These medications kill the adult worms and prevent the eggs from hatching.
• Reservoir: The reservoir for whipworm is humans. The eggs are passed in the stool of infected people and can survive in the soil for several months.
• Laboratory diagnosis: Whipworm infection can be diagnosed by examining a stool sample under a microscope. The eggs of whipworm are characteristically barrel-shaped and have a thick, outer shell.
• Outbreak: In 2011, there was an outbreak of whipworm infection in a small village in Malawi. The outbreak was traced to contaminated water that was used for drinking and bathing. The outbreak affected over 1,000 people and resulted in several deaths.

Here are some preventive measures to help reduce the risk of whipworm infection:

• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before eating and after using the toilet.
• Cook food thoroughly, especially vegetables and fruits that have been grown in soil.
• Avoid drinking water from untrusted sources.
• Use toilets instead of defecating in the open.