What are Cattle Eyeworms and Can They Infect Humans?

  • Thread starter BillTre
  • Start date
In summary, cattle eyeworms are a type of parasitic worm that can infect cattle and other animals, including humans. They are transmitted through the bite of an infected fly or insect and can cause irritation and discomfort in the eyes. Symptoms in humans may include redness, itching, and a feeling of something moving in the eye. Diagnosis can be made through a physical examination and microscope analysis of eye tissue or fluid. Treatment typically involves the removal of the worms from the eye and medication to kill any remaining worms in the body. It is important to seek medical treatment to avoid potential complications.
  • #1
BillTre
Science Advisor
Gold Member
2,532
10,146
Here is a link to a CNN story about a woman who found little worms in her eye (very unusual) and what ensued as she tried to get them ID'ed and treated.
I like her attitude.
 
  • Like
Likes jim mcnamara and Drakkith
Biology news on Phys.org
  • #2
Yikes, and the plan was to just remove all 20 of them by hand when found.
 

Related to What are Cattle Eyeworms and Can They Infect Humans?

What are cattle eyeworms?

Cattle eyeworms (Thelazia spp.) are a type of parasitic worm that typically infects cattle, but can also infect other animals, including humans. They are commonly found in the eyes and surrounding tissues, causing irritation and discomfort.

How do humans get infected with cattle eyeworms?

Humans can become infected with cattle eyeworms through contact with infected animals, such as cows, deer, or dogs. The larvae of the eyeworms are transmitted through the bite of a fly or other insect that has fed on an infected animal's tears or other fluids.

What are the symptoms of a cattle eyeworm infection in humans?

The symptoms of a cattle eyeworm infection in humans may include redness, irritation, and itching in the eyes, as well as a feeling of something moving in the eye. In rare cases, the worms may migrate to other parts of the body and cause more serious symptoms, such as migraines or respiratory issues.

How are cattle eyeworm infections in humans diagnosed?

Cattle eyeworm infections in humans can be diagnosed through a physical examination of the eye and surrounding tissues, as well as by taking a sample of the conjunctival tissue or fluid. The sample can then be examined under a microscope to look for the presence of the worms.

What is the treatment for cattle eyeworm infections in humans?

The treatment for cattle eyeworm infections in humans typically involves the removal of the worms from the eye using forceps or other specialized tools. In some cases, medication may also be prescribed to kill any remaining worms or larvae in the body. It is important to seek medical treatment as soon as possible to prevent potential complications.

Similar threads

Replies
1
Views
901
  • Biology and Medical
Replies
1
Views
949
  • Biology and Medical
Replies
19
Views
2K
Replies
7
Views
3K
  • Biology and Medical
Replies
15
Views
2K
  • Biology and Medical
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • Biology and Medical
2
Replies
35
Views
4K
  • Biology and Medical
Replies
5
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
2K
Replies
10
Views
4K
Back
Top