Tapeworm Infection in Humans: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Tapeworm infection in humans is common and can occur to anyone, regardless of sex, race or age. Most people who are carrying tapeworms do not know it. The infection can be treated with oral medication.

Definition

• A tapeworm is a worm with a long, flat body that can live in human intestines. They can grow to 3 to 10 meters in length.

Occurence

• Tapeworm infection usually occurs when a person eats or drink items that are contaminated with a tapeworm's eggs.

Causes

• Tapeworm infection is caused by one of four species: pork tapeworm, beef tapeworm, dwarf tapeworm and fish tapeworm.

Symptoms

• Most people who have tapeworms do not show symptoms. Those who do might feel weak, lose their appetite, lose weight or feel nauseated.

People at Risk

• People most at risk for tapeworm infection include those exposed to livestock, have poor hygiene or eat raw or undercooked meats.