4. The Parasitic Plot: Enteric Protozoa and Worms
Ever traveled to a tropical country and returned with an upset stomach? You might’ve had a brush with enteric protozoa or intestinal worms like Ascaris and hookworms. These parasites might seem like a thing of horror movies, but they’re a reality for many, especially in areas with poor sanitation.
Enteric protozoa can be contracted through contaminated food, water, and even soil. These are not your garden-variety bugs; some of them can cause severe infections leading to chronic diarrhea. The illness can drag on for weeks, leaving you dehydrated and feeling generally miserable. And what about intestinal worms? Picture this: they can grow up to 35 centimeters long and live inside you, feeding off your nutrients.
Here’s a twist: not all parasitic infections result in glaring symptoms. Some people might go on for years without realizing they’re hosts to these critters. They only find out when a routine check-up reveals elevated levels of certain enzymes or antibodies in their blood. And this could be after suffering from subtle symptoms like fatigue or abdominal discomfort.
Where are these parasites hiding? Tropical and subtropical regions are hotspots, but don’t get too comfortable if you’re in a developed country. Cases have been reported even in upscale resorts where food and water contamination can still occur. In the U.S., an estimated 13.8 million people are infected with Toxoplasma gondii, a protozoa that commonly causes foodborne illness. (4)
