Diphyllobothriasis

Commonly infected wildlife

 

Is this animal infected?

• Many species of freshwater fish and salmon can be infected
• Affected animals have worms that may be coiled in muscles, or in cysts within internal organs
• Worms vary in length (from 1/8 inch-1/2 inch)

Can I get it?

Yes

• By consuming raw or undercooked fish
• People can develop mature tapeworms in their intestines
•  

How bad can it get?

Medications can kill and remove the worms.

Protect myself and others

Symptoms in humans

• Most people have no or mild symptoms:
  • Fatigue
  • Diarrhea
  • Dizziness
  • Weight loss
  • Vomiting
  • Itchy anus
• Massive infection may cause:
  • Numbness of extremities
• Additional symptoms may include:
  • Loss of appetite
  • Paleness
  • Shortness of breath
  • Weakness
  • Confusion

Safe for pets?

• Cook or freeze first
• These worms can survive and grow in dog intestines

What causes it?

• A tapeworm called Diphyllobothrium
• Commonly known as broad fish tapeworm
• It can grow to 30 feet in length in human intestines