Understanding Parasitosis: Types, Symptoms, and Prevention

Parasitic Infections: Overview

Parasitosis is disease caused by parasites—organisms that live in/on a host, extracting nutrients and causing harm.

Classification

• Ectoparasites – live on the surface (lice, fleas, ticks, mites, leeches).
• Endoparasites – live inside (intestinal worms, tapeworms, flukes, protozoa, nematodes).

Common Symptoms

• Abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting
• Fever, anemia, weight loss, fatigue
• Skin rashes, swollen lymph nodes, organ damage

Diagnosis & Treatment

Blood tests, stool exams, biopsies. Treatment: antiparasitic medications.

Prevention

• Avoid contact with potentially infected animals.
• Cook meat/fish thoroughly.
• Wash produce well.
• Drink clean water.
• Practice good hygiene.