Parasitic Brain Worms Invade Atlanta, Scientists Issue Warning

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed the presence of a parasitic brain worm called Angiostrongylus cantonensis, also known as "rat lungworm," in Atlanta. The worm, which can cause parasitic meningitis in humans, was found in wild brown rats in 2019 and 2022. The CDC warns that the worm poses a potential threat to human and animal health in the greater Atlanta area. Infections can occur through the consumption of contaminated produce or by eating raw or undercooked snails, slugs, or other infected animals. Symptoms of infection can range from mild to severe, including eosinophilic meningitis, and there are currently no specific treatments available.