What parasites are transmitted through contact with contaminated sand, specifically dog feces, while walking barefoot?

From the Guidelines

Walking barefoot on sand contaminated with dog feces can expose you to hookworms, specifically Ancylostoma duodenale and Necator americanus, which can penetrate human skin and cause infections. The mode of transmission for these parasites is through larvae penetrating the skin of humans walking barefoot or lying on affected soil or sand 1. The clinical presentation of hookworm infections is usually asymptomatic, but can include a transient itch and sometimes a maculopapular rash, followed by nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain 1. Some key points to consider include:

• The prepatent period for hookworm infections is 5-9 weeks 1
• Distribution of hookworms is worldwide, with higher prevalence in areas with limited access to adequate sanitation 1
• Investigations for hookworm infections typically involve concentrated stool microscopy or faecal PCR 1
• Treatment for hookworm infections usually involves albendazole 400 mg daily for 3 days 1. It is essential to take preventive measures, such as wearing footwear on beaches or areas where dogs may defecate, washing feet thoroughly after beach exposure, and ensuring pets receive regular deworming medication to minimize the risk of infection.

From the Research

Parasites Transferred from Sand

• The parasites that can be transferred from sand to humans, particularly when walking barefoot on sand contaminated with dog feces, include:
  • Hookworms 2, 3, 4
  • Roundworms (Toxocara spp.) 2
  • Tapeworms (e.g., Echinococcus spp.) 2, 3
  • Whipworms (Trichuris trichiura) 2, 3, 4
  • Threadworms (Strongyloides stercoralis) 2, 3
  • Pinworms (Enterobius vermicularis) 3

Soil-Transmitted Helminths

• Soil-transmitted helminths (STH) are a group of parasites that can infect humans through contact with contaminated soil, including:
  • Ascaris lumbricoides (roundworm) 4, 5
  • Hookworms (Ancylostoma duodenale and Necator americanus) 4, 5
  • Trichuris trichiura (whipworm) 4, 5

Treatment and Prevention

• Anthelmintic drugs, such as albendazole and mebendazole, are commonly used to treat STH infections 2, 3, 4, 5
• Preventive measures, including improved sanitation, hygiene, and health education, can help reduce the risk of STH infections 4, 5