The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (LAC DPH) issued a health alert on September 17, 2024. This advisory shares information human infections with raccoon roundworm.
Key Messages
- Two human cases of Baylisascaris procyonis (raccoon roundworm) have been reported in Los Angeles County. B. procyonis is a rare but serious cause of neurologic and ocular disease in humans.
- B. procyonis is a parasite commonly found in the intestines of raccoons. Humans become infected when they consume parasite eggs in infected raccoon feces.
- Healthcare providers should consider baylisascariasis in patients, especially children, with neurologic or ocular involvement and eosinophilia.
- Immediately report any suspected cases of baylisascariasis to Public Health by phone.
Read the full LAC DPH Health Alert: Human Infections with Baylisascaris Procyonis (Raccoon Roundworm).