Invasive Parasite Found In Brown Rats Detected In Atlanta: New Study

ATLANTA, GA — An invasive parasitic infection that can be passed from brown rats to humans through certain raw or undercooked foods has been discovered in Atlanta, a recent study shows.

The study was published Wednesday by the University of Georgia and other regional colleges in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's latest Emerging Infectious Diseases peer-review journal.

Angiostrongylus cantonensis, commonly known as rat lungworm, was detected in Atlanta after 33 wild brown rats found dead from 2019-22 on zoo grounds were tested for the infection. The first positive test was conducted in 2019.

A. cantonensis was also found in Texas, Louisiana, Alabama, Hawaii and Florida. The infection has been detected in other countries but is invasive to the U.S., according to the study.

Basics of A. cantonensis

While the adult form of the worm is only found in rodents, the CDC said humans can also get infected with the parasite. Snails and slugs can ingest the parasite's larvae, and if a human eats raw or undercooked snails or slugs, the parasite can then be passed to the human.

"In some cultures, snails are commonly eaten. Some children, in particular, have gotten infected by swallowing snails/slugs “on a dare. ” People also can get infected by accident, by eating raw produce (such as lettuce) that contains a small snail or slug or part of one," the CDC said.

The CDC added freshwater shrimp, crabs or frogs can contain the parasite's larvae. Fish cannot spread A. cantonensis.

The infection is not spread from person to person, but can cause a rare form of meningitis, the CDC said. The infection can fade over time, and people can experience mild symptoms.

Some cases of A. cantonensis can go untreated though symptoms can last several weeks or months, the CDC said.

Symptoms of A. cantonensis (per the CDC)

• Headache
• Stiff neck
• Tingling or painful feelings in the skin
• Low-grade fever
• Nausea
• Vomiting

Preventing A. cantonensis (per the CDC)

• Wear gloves and wash hands when handling slugs or snails.
• Thoroughly wash fresh produce.
• Avoid eating uncooked vegetables in areas where A. cantonensis is common.

Anyone who believes they may have been infected with the parasite should visit their health care provider, the CDC said.