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TOXOCARA – THE FACTS What is toxocara? Toxocara canis is the common roundworm of the dog. Toxocara eggs are passed in the faeces of infected dogs, sometimes contaminating children’s hands as they play. If infective eggs are then swallowed, there is a slight possibility of an illness referred to as toxocariasis. How common is toxocariasis? Toxocariasis is very rare – there are approximately two cases annually of illness due to infection per million of the population. On the rare occasions when human infection occurs, it usually only causes mild, flu-like symptoms. Toxocara antibodies are present in fewer than two in 100 healthy adults in the UK who have previously been exposed to infection with no ill effects. Can toxocariasis cause blindness? Total blindness from Toxocara infection is exceptional. It is rare even for the sight of one eye to be totally lost, though vision can be impaired. However, even one case is too many. It is so simple and easy to prevent following the regular worming of dogs and cats. What can I do to prevent anyone catching toxocariasis? Toxocariasis is easily preventable. If you are a dog owner, make sure that you worm your dog regularly. A better alternative is to train a dog at an early stage to ‘go’ on command at home. Whatever the situation always clear up the faeces after your dog with a poop-scoop and dispose of them properly.Children should be reminded to wash their hands after stroking a pet, before eating and especially if they’ve been playing outside. I think my child may have eaten some dog faeces – what should I do? There is very little risk of Toxocara infection, however you are advised to take your child along to your doctor for advice and any appropriate treatment. How often should I worm my dog/puppy? It is important to worm pregnant or nursing bitches and especially young puppies, which are more likely to be handled by young children. Adult dogs should be wormed every three months to prevent infection. Puppies should be wormed from the age of two weeks, every two weeks, until the age of 12 weeks
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