The Danger of Garden Snails
Garden snails may seem like harmless creatures, slowly making their way across your garden or yard. However, they can pose a danger to humans, especially if they carry a specific type of parasite known as the Rat Lungworm.
What is Rat Lungworm?
Rat Lungworm is a parasitic nematode that lives in the lungs of rats. The parasite is passed on to snails and slugs when they eat rat feces. Humans can get infected if they ingest snails or slugs that are carrying the parasite.
How Dangerous is Rat Lungworm?
Rat Lungworm can be a serious illness, and in some cases, it can be fatal. The symptoms can range from mild to severe, including headaches, vomiting, and even paralysis. In rare cases, it can lead to meningitis, which is a life-threatening condition.
How to Protect Yourself
Avoid Eating Raw Snails
One way to protect yourself from Rat Lungworm is to avoid eating raw snails or slugs. If you do eat snails, make sure they are cooked thoroughly, and do not drink any liquids left over from cooking the snails.
Wash Your Hands and Produce
Garden snails and other types of snails and slugs can leave behind a slime trail that can contain the Rat Lungworm parasite. It’s important to wash your hands thoroughly after handling snails or slugs, and also to wash any produce that may have come into contact with them.
Control Snail Populations in Your Garden
Another way to protect yourself from Rat Lungworm is to control the snail population in your garden. You can do this by removing any hiding places for snails and slugs, such as piles of leaves or debris. You can also use snail bait or traps to capture and remove them from your garden.
Conclusion
While garden snails may seem harmless, they can carry a dangerous parasite that can make humans very sick. To protect yourself, it’s important to avoid eating raw snails or slugs, wash your hands and produce thoroughly, and control the snail population in your garden. By taking these simple steps, you can enjoy your garden without worrying about the danger of garden snails.