DIAGNOSIS
Diagnosis of Angiostrongylus infection can be challenging, in part because no blood tests are widely available. A history of travel to areas where the parasite is known to be found and the intake of undercooked or raw slugs, snails or potentially transport hosts (including freshwater shrimp, frogs or land crabs) in those places are crucial clues that could ultimately lead to the diagnosis of infection.
Another important detail is a high level of eosinophils, a type of blood cell that can be increased in the presence of a parasite or in the fluid or blood that surrounds the brain. People who are concerned that they may be infected should see their doctor.
TREATMENT
Angiostrongylus infection has no particular treatment. There is some clear indication that certain supportive therapies may lessen the severity and intensity of headache signs. Individuals experiencing symptoms should seek advice from their doctor.
Prevention
Because you don’t develop immunity to the disease by having it, you can catch it more than once.
The following are ways to prevent Angiostrongylus infection:
- Before eating fruits and vegetables, make sure they’re clean.
- Wash your hands thoroughly and keep a clean environment.
- Before consuming snails, frogs, and crustaceans, make sure they are thoroughly cooked.
