Identification of Baylisascaris (Raccoon Roundworm) in Clark County

District issues reminder that raccoons can transmit disease and should not be adopted as pets

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
July 8, 2005

(Las Vegas, Nev., – July 8, 2005) – The Southern Nevada Health District has received confirmation from the Nevada Department of Agriculture Animal Disease laboratory that several area raccoons have tested positive for Baylisascaris (raccoon roundworm disease). The testing was conducted as part of a collaborative infectious disease surveillance effort with the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Baylisascaris is a potentially dangerous parasite commonly found in raccoons. The worms develop to maturity in the small intestine, where they produce millions of eggs that are shed in raccoon droppings. Human infection is relatively rare, but occurs when people inadvertently ingest infective roundworm eggs in soil, water or other contaminated objects. If large numbers of eggs are ingested, severe central nervous system damage, eye damage or death can result.

To prevent Baylisascaris infection, do not adopt raccoons as pets. Additionally, avoid contact with raccoons and their droppings, which are typically found at the base of trees and on raised horizontal surfaces like fallen logs, stumps and large rocks. Further, discourage raccoons from visiting your home by eliminating access to food and water sources like pet food, garbage cans and bird feeders.

To eliminate eggs, raccoon droppings and material contaminated with raccoon droppings should be removed carefully and burned, buried or sent to a landfill. Prompt removal of raccoon feces will reduce the risk for exposure and possible infection.

To learn more about Baylisascaris, visit www.southernnevadahealthdistrict.org or contact the Southern Nevada Health District Division of Environmental Health at (702) 759-0677.

Visit the Media Contacts webpage for media related inquiries.

The Southern Nevada Health District serves as the local public health authority for Clark County, Boulder City, Henderson, Las Vegas, Mesquite and North Las Vegas. The agency safeguards the public health of the community’s residents and visitors through innovative programs, regulations, and initiatives focused on protecting and promoting their health and well-being. More information about the Health District, its programs, services, and the regulatory oversight it provides is available at www.SNHD.info. Follow the Health District on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.