Roundworm-Thelazia (Eyes-from flies)

Thelaziasis is caused from Thelazia species of roundworms. This one likes the eyes. Flies feed on lacrimal secretions and inadvertently act as vectors in transferring the larvae into the eye. Symptoms include conjunctivitis (pinkeye) photophobia (sun sensitivity) and tearing. Corneal scarring can happen with chronic infection. You can actually see the worm move across the visual field.

Roundworm-Strongyloides (Large animals)

Common animals that act as host to this species include humans, dogs, foxes, cats, primates, rodents, horses and raccoons. A fecal sample is necessary to identify the eggs. Symptoms are not that evident, but can include itching at the point of entry, coughing, nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain, straining to defecate and weight loss. This is a common cause of colic in horses and one main reason why horse owners should worm their horses as least every quarter.

Roundworm-Schistosoma (Skin-Swimmer’s Itch)

Schistosomiasis, also known as bilharziasis, swimmer’s itch or snail fever, is caused by the larvae of blood flukes known as schistosomes. Direct contact with fresh water infested with the free-living form of the parasite known as cercariae. The building of dams, irrigation systems, and reservoirs, and the movements of refugee groups introduce and spread schistosomiasis. Eggs are excreted in human urine and feces and, in areas with poor sanitation, contaminate freshwater sources.

Roundworm-Enterobius (Human Pinworm)

Roundworm—Enterobius vermicularis  (Pinworms or Seatworms) causes Enterobiasis. The severity of disease depends upon the worm load, since most nematodes cannot multiply in their host. The picture on the right shows what you see on a positive pinworm scotch tape test...

Roundworm-Dracunculus (Lymph system)

Treatment of Drancunculus includes niridazole and diethylcarbamazine. Um. . .I won’t describe how you get the worm out of the body. Google it. It’s gross! The right picture shows a worm poking its head out of the lump. Ewww. Don’t swim in dirty water—especially in foreign countries!