What is Entamoeba polecki?

Entamoeba polecki is a parasite that lives in the large intestine of pigs and monkeys. It sometimes infects other animals and people.

In what parts of the world have people become infected with Entamoeba polecki?

In many parts of the world. Two of the most common places have been Southeast Asia and Papua New Guinea.

How is infection with Entamoeba polecki spread to people?

We do not know very much about how this parasite is spread. Some infected people have had contact with animals, such as pigs; other people have not. We think people can become infected by

• touching and bringing to their mouths something, such as a finger, that has touched the stool of a person or animal that is infected with E. polecki;
• touching and bringing to their mouths E. polecki picked up from contaminated surfaces; and
• swallowing something, such as water or food, contaminated with E. polecki.

How common is Entamoeba polecki infection?

We do not know. But we think it is rare.

How is infection with Entamoeba polecki diagnosed?

This parasite is found by looking at stool samples under a microscope. Your health care provider may ask you to submit several samples from different days.

Does Entamoeba polecki make people sick?

We are not sure whether E. polecki can make people sick. Many people who are infected with E. polecki feel fine. Some people have symptoms such as loose stools, nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, stomach pain, loss of weight, and fatigue. Since we are not sure whether E. polecki can make people sick, it is important to look for other possible causes of the symptoms. For example, abdominal symptoms could be caused by other types of infection, medications, food allergies, and diseases such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.

What should I do if I think I am infected with Entamoeba polecki?

See your health care provider.

Is medication available to treat infection with Entamoeba polecki?

Yes. Safe and effective drugs are available if your health care provider decides your infection should be treated.

How can I prevent Entamoeba polecki infection?

• Wash your hands with soap and warm water, especially after using the toilet, changing diapers, and touching animals and before preparing foods.
• Teach children the importance of washing their hands to prevent infection.

When traveling overseas in countries where food and water could be unsafe:

• Select beverages and foods with care.
• Do not drink unboiled tap water. Beverages, such as coffee and tea, made with boiled water are safe to drink, as are bottled or canned carbonated beverages, seltzers, and pasteurized fruit drinks.
• Eat food that has been cooked well and is served hot. Avoid salads, uncooked vegetables, and fresh fruit that was peeled or cut by someone other than yourself.

Should I be concerned about spreading infection to the rest of my household?

No. If you practice good personal hygiene, including thorough hand washing, there is little risk of spreading infection.