Whipworm is found throughout the world, especially in countries with a warm
moist climate. It can become a parasite in humans following
ingestion of
soil that contains whip
worm eggs. These eggs get ino the soil from the
feces of previously infected organisms.
Following egg ingestion the eggs hatch, and the whipworm embeds itself in the wall of the large intestine. In the case of a light infestation, few if any symptoms are seen. A heavier infestation leads to bloody diarrhea, and in severe cases, rectal prolapse. Excessive loss of blood may lead to anaemic symptoms.
An infestation, once identified by an examination of a stool sample can be easily treated with orally administred anti-parasitic medicine. As the main sufferers are young children there may be some distress, but recovery should be rapid.