Tag

Parasite

All articles tagged with #parasite

First human brain infection traced to Australian parasite Ophidascaris robertsi
health2 days ago

First human brain infection traced to Australian parasite Ophidascaris robertsi

Doctors in Australia diagnosed a 64-year-old woman with a rare neural larva migrans caused by Ophidascaris robertsi, a parasite native to carpet pythons. After years of lung and organ lesions and progressive neuropsychiatric symptoms, a brain biopsy revealed the worm. She was treated with surgical removal followed by ivermectin and albendazole, plus dexamethasone, leading to resolution of lung and liver lesions and improved memory and mood.

Indie Powerhouse Neon in Talks to Sell Stake to Department M
entertainment9 days ago

Indie Powerhouse Neon in Talks to Sell Stake to Department M

Neon, the Oscar-winning indie studio behind Parasite and Anora, is in talks to sell a substantial stake to Department M, a new production outfit formed by Mike Larocca and Michael Schaefer and backed by a consortium of private investors. Neon, founded in 2017 by Tom Quinn, has a credits list including international titles and the horror hit Longlegs, which grossed nearly $130 million. Department M’s slate reportedly includes Blood on Snow and a remake of The Hand That Rocks the Cradle. Both Neon and Department M declined to comment on the negotiations.

Rat Lungworm Disease Confirmed in Adult on Kauai
health4 months ago

Rat Lungworm Disease Confirmed in Adult on Kauai

The Hawaii Department of Health confirmed a case of rat lungworm disease in an adult on Kauai, marking the first since 2019 on the island. The disease, caused by the parasite Angiostrongylus cantonensis, affects the nervous system and is primarily contracted through ingestion of infected snails, slugs, or contaminated produce. Health officials emphasize the importance of thorough washing of fruits and vegetables and controlling pest populations to prevent infection.

Kissing bugs and the persistent threat of disease spread in the US
health5 months ago

Kissing bugs and the persistent threat of disease spread in the US

Kissing bugs, which bite around the mouth and eyes, are spreading in the U.S. and can transmit Chagas disease, a potentially fatal illness caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi. The disease has an acute phase that can be cured with medication if caught early, but it can progress to a chronic stage with no cure, often without symptoms. Kissing bugs are found in rural and suburban areas, hiding in homes, and about half carry the parasite, posing a health risk to humans.

Kissing Bugs Invade Florida Homes, Sucking Blood While We Sleep
health5 months ago

Kissing Bugs Invade Florida Homes, Sucking Blood While We Sleep

Kissing bugs have been found invading homes in Florida, carrying the parasite that causes Chagas disease, which can be life-threatening but is often underreported and asymptomatic. The study highlights the risk of these bugs entering homes to feed on humans and pets, emphasizing the importance of awareness and prevention measures. While no cases of transmission in the US have been confirmed, the presence of infected bugs suggests a potential health concern, especially in less affluent areas.

Kissing Bugs and Chagas Disease: Rising Threats in the U.S.
health5 months ago

Kissing Bugs and Chagas Disease: Rising Threats in the U.S.

Chagas disease, caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi and transmitted by kissing bugs, is increasingly being reported in the U.S., with cases confirmed in at least eight states. The disease can cause serious long-term health issues, but there is no vaccine; prevention involves insect control and protective measures. Early treatment with antiparasitic drugs is most effective, and health officials advise those exposed to seek medical evaluation.

Chagas Disease Now Endemic in the U.S., Including Illinois
health5 months ago

Chagas Disease Now Endemic in the U.S., Including Illinois

Researchers suggest Chagas disease, caused by the Trypanosoma cruzi parasite and transmitted by kissing bugs, is becoming endemic in the US, with reports of infected bugs in 31 states, but no confirmed cases in Illinois yet. The disease has acute and chronic stages, with symptoms ranging from fever and fatigue to serious heart and digestive issues. Treatment is available, especially in the early stages, but diagnosis requires blood tests and medical evaluation.

Chagas Disease, Spread by Kissing Bugs, Now Endemic in the U.S.
health5 months ago

Chagas Disease, Spread by Kissing Bugs, Now Endemic in the U.S.

Chagas disease, caused by the Trypanosoma cruzi parasite and transmitted by triatomine bugs or 'kissing bugs,' is now endemic in 32 US states, posing a health risk with potential deadly heart and digestive complications, especially if untreated. The disease is spreading further north, with increased detection in both humans and animals, and can be managed effectively if diagnosed early with antiparasitic drugs.