What are the symptoms of Baylisascaris infection in humans?

Symptoms of infection depend on how many eggs are ingested and where in the body the larvae migrate (travel to). Once inside the body, eggs hatch into larvae and cause disease when they travel through the liver, brain, spinal cord, or other organs. Ingesting a few eggs may cause few or no symptoms, while ingesting large numbers of eggs may lead to serious symptoms. Symptoms of infection may take a week or so to develop.

Symptoms include

• Nausea
• Tiredness
• Liver enlargement
• Loss of coordination
• Lack of attention to people and surroundings
• Loss of muscle control
• Coma
• Blindness

Other animals (except raccoons) infected with Baylisascaris can develop similar symptoms, or may die as a result of infection.

What should I do if I think I have ingested Baylisascaris eggs?

If you suspect you have been infected, consult your health care provider immediately. Be sure to report that you have recently been exposed to raccoons or their feces.