Are intestinal parasites contagious?

Intestinal parasites * are organisms that live in the gastrointestinal * tract of animals, including humans. They can cause diarrhea (dye-uh-REE-uh) and other symptoms. read more

Parasites in humans are contagious, and very highly so. There are many ways to pass parasites in humans. Usually when one person in the family gets intestinal parasites, the whole family ends up with them. read more

In humans, three types of intestinal parasites may live in the small and large intestines: tapeworms, roundworms (or nematodes, NEE-muh-todes), and protozoa (pro-tuh-ZOH-uh). Certain types remain in the intestines; others travel outside the intestines to invade other organs. read more

Some parasites in dogs can be contagious, both to other dogs and to people. Intestinal worms can be particularly problematic, but some external parasites can be passed between dogs and people, too. Let's look at some common canine parasites that can also pose health risks to dog owners. read more

Intestinal parasites such as worms destroy friendly bacteria in the gut, making yeast overgrowth possible. It is common for Candida patients to also have parasites and parasites should be suspected if Candida overgrowth recurs. read more

In humans, three types of intestinal parasites may live in the small and large intestines: tapeworms, roundworms (or nematodes, NEE-muh-todes), and protozoa (pro-tuh-ZOH-uh). Certain types remain in the intestines; others travel outside the intestines to invade other organs. read more