Tapeworm Infection: Transmission, Symptoms, Treatment, Prevention

Transmission

• Raw/undercooked meat (beef, pork, fish) containing cysticerci
• Contaminated food/water (sewage, animal feces)
• Poor hygiene (fecal-oral)

Symptoms

• Abdominal pain, diarrhea/constipation
• Weight loss, nausea, fatigue
• Anemia, malnutrition
• Severe: intestinal blockage/perforation

Treatment

Antiparasitic medication; dead worms pass in stool. Surgery if obstruction/perforation.

Prevention

• Cook meat to ≥145°F (63°C)
• Wash produce thoroughly
• Drink filtered/boiled water in high-risk areas
• Hand hygiene (post-toilet, pre-food)
• Treat infected pets