How To Prevent Cutaneous Larva Migrans Infection

To prevent infection with this parasite, it is recommended that when taking your pet to a public place, avoid contact with the fecal matter of other animals. Any waste they may generate in public places such as beaches should be picked up immediately.

Prevention methods

Every year, some people on our Island suffer from the disease known as cutaneous larva migrans. Cutaneous larva migrans is caused by the presence of nematode larvae or parasitic worms in the superficial and/or deep layers of the skin and constitutes one of the most frequent skin diseases of zoonotic origin, that is, transmitted by animals, in tropical and subtropical areas. The infection is acquired when the skin comes into contact with soil contaminated with infected dog feces. The most appropriate places for these parasites are beaches where stray dogs live or where people take their dogs for walks.

The parts of the body most commonly affected are the back and soles of the feet, hands, buttocks, anogenital area, trunk, thighs, and legs. Among the most common symptoms are severe itching and skin lesions that usually disappear within 2 to 8 weeks. But once a person is infected with this parasite, medical attention should be sought as soon as possible.

To prevent infection with this parasite, it is recommended that when taking your pet to a public place, avoid contact with the fecal matter of other animals. Any waste they may generate in public places such as beaches should be picked up immediately. You should also take care of the environmental hygiene where pets usually defecate, disinfect the places where pets live and deworm them periodically as recommended by your licensed and registered veterinarian in Puerto Rico.

Persons working in potentially contaminated areas such as shelters or animal shelters should wear shoes, gloves, and other protective measures. The most effective method of prevention is to avoid direct contact between contaminated soil and skin. In areas where this infection is common, it is best to avoid going barefoot or touching the ground with your hands.

Another effective prevention measure can be to develop plans for handling pets during emergencies and natural disasters. In this way, we can prevent them from being abandoned after a disaster and exacerbating the problem.