Parasitic Brain Worm Found in Atlanta, Raising Health Concerns

A recent study conducted by independent researchers and published by the CDC has discovered the presence of a parasitic brain worm, known as “rat lungworm,” in Atlanta. This worm, scientifically known as Angiostrongylus cantonensis, has the potential to cause parasitic meningitis in humans and is typically transmitted through contaminated produce.

The study focused on the wild brown rats residing in the grounds of a zoological facility in Atlanta, where researchers found evidence of the worm in 2019 and 2022. This discovery raises concerns about the potential threat posed to the health of both humans and animals by the presence of the worm in urban rat populations and other hosts throughout the greater Atlanta area.

According to the study author, this parasitic worm has become endemic in several states across the United States, including Hawaii, Texas, Louisiana, Alabama, and Florida. The worm is generally contracted through the consumption of raw or undercooked snails, slugs, or raw produce. However, larvae of the parasite have also been found in other animals, such as freshwater shrimp, crabs, and frogs.

While the majority of known infections of A. cantonensis have been reported in Asia and the Pacific Islands, cases in the US have been on the rise. Symptoms of infection can vary from mild to severe, with some individuals exhibiting no symptoms at all. In severe cases, the infection can lead to eosinophilic meningitis, characterized by symptoms like headache, stiff neck, fever, nausea, and vomiting.

It is crucial to note that there are currently no specific treatments available for this infection. Therefore, experts emphasize the importance of raising awareness and taking necessary precautions to avoid contracting the worm. These precautions include thoroughly washing and properly cooking produce, as well as avoiding the consumption of raw or undercooked snails, slugs, and other potential carriers of the parasite.

The presence of the rat lungworm in Atlanta serves as a stark reminder of the need for increased vigilance and preventive measures to curb the spread of this parasitic infection. As researchers continue to study the prevalence and transmission of this worm, it is essential for individuals to prioritize their health and take appropriate actions to minimize the risk of infection.