Smileband helath issues

Cysticercosis is a parasitic tissue infection that is caused by the larval cysts of Taenia solium. The cysts can infect the brain, muscle, or other issues.

Cysts in the brain:

• can cause neurocysticercosis
• can cause seizures and headaches
• may cause stroke or death

Cysts in the muscles:

• can cause lumps under the skin

35 cases of cysticercosis were reported in Arizona in the last 10 years and almost half of those cases had international travel.

Arizona 5 year median: 2 cases

Transmission

Transmission occurs by ingestion of the eggs of the tapeworm Taenia solium through direct fecal-oral contact or by consuming food contaminated with the tapeworm eggs.                           Isolation Precautions

Standard precautions are recommended in healthcare settings. 

Prevention for Patients

• Wash hands with soap and warm water after using the toilet, changing diapers, and before handling food.
• Wash and peel all raw vegetables and fruits before eating.
• Use good water and water safety practices while traveling in developing countries.

Public Health Actions
Public health will conduct an epidemiological investigation on a case or suspect case.

If an individual is a carrier of the tapeworm Taenia solium, his/her household contacts are at an increased risk for cysticercosis. Treatment of the carrier and testing of the household con