What are parasitic infections?

Honor Society of Nursing (STTI)

When a parasite enters a person's body and begins to multiply, it is referred to as a parasitic infection. Parasites usually enter the body through the mouth or skin, although in some cases, infections can be passed from a mother to her unborn child. Examples of parasites that can infect human beings are single-celled organisms called protozoa or multi-celled invertebrates such as hookworms or tapeworms.

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Parasitic Infections

Parasitic infections begin when a person comes into contact with a disease-causing parasite like tapeworms, roundworms. You can contract these types of infections through contact with contaminated food, soil or water, often in tropical regions. Symptoms of parasitic infections can include digestive problems, irritability, chronic fatigue, acne, rashes, sleep problems, anemia, muscle cramps, allergies and headaches. While there is no vaccine, treatment for parasites can include medications or topical applications.

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