November 10, 2007

A report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that about 14 percent of Americans are infected with Toxocara – a parasite commonly known as the round worm.

The disease is zoonotic – which means you can get it from your pet. The CDC says the parasite is most commonly found in children from low socioeconomic areas.

For the most part there aren't any symptoms. But in rare cases it can cause blindness, especially in children.

Researchers say the worms are transferred through cat and dog fecal matter – in yards and sand boxes – places where children often play.

Doctors at the Companion Animals Parasite Council recommend you treat your cat and dog once a month with a preventative parasite medicine – similar to treatments for heart worm, fleas and ticks.

Find out more at cdc.org

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