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Citation/References: |
Last name, F.M. Date of image. Title of image. Wildlife Services Image Collection. ID No. xx-xxxx. USDA/APHIS/WS National Wildlife Research Center Archives. Image URL if citing online version |
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Materials created by Federal agencies are generally not subject to copyright protection in the United States and may be reproduced without permission. Some materials have been produced by individuals or organizations that may be subject to additional restrictions on use. Specific restrictions are noted where information is available, but WS cannot guarantee the status of specific items; use of items in the collections is at the risk of the user. Inquiries regarding permissions and requests for large-format digital images can be directed to the National Wildlife Research Center Archivist at 970-266-6021 |
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Description: |
Rat Lungworm Studies at Hawaii Field Station. Rat lungworm disease cases started appearing on Hawaii Island with increasing frequency in the early 2000s. It is caused by a parasitic roundworm nematode (Angiostrongylus cantonensis). The adult stage is only found in rodents, and infected rodents can pass larvae of the worm in their feces. Snails, slugs, and other animals are intermediate hosts. Infection can cause a rare type of severe eosinophilic meningitis in humans, which are dead-end hosts for the parasite. Conclusive diagnoses in people were difficult until recently. Risks for people include accidental ingestion of slugs, snails or their slime trails on produce, particularly leafy greens, and untreated drinking water. NWRC's Hawaii Field Station has conducted several laboratory studies of rat lungworm disease in collaboration with the University of Hawaii at Hilo's School of Pharmacy. NWRC plans to begin a study soon in collaboration with the university and USDA-Agricultural Research Service to test the efficacy of a common pinworm medication as a potential treatment, and irradiation for treating agricultural exports from Hawaii. |