What Is Dragon Worm Disease?
Dragon worm disease, also known as Guinea worm disease, is caused by the parasitic roundworm Dracunculus medinensis. The female worm can grow to be 70-120 cm long, while the male is significantly smaller, measuring only 4 cm. The male worm dies after mating.
The Life Cycle of Dragon Worm Disease
Dragon worm disease is an ancient ailment, with records dating back to ancient Egypt. While once prevalent in parts of Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, the World Health Organization (WHO) launched a campaign to eradicate the disease in 1986. By 2015, only 22 cases were reported in four countries: Ethiopia, Chad, Mali, and South Sudan. Vietnam had previously reported four cases, but recently, in 2022, a 42-year-old man in Yen Bai province pulled out an 8 cm long dragon worm from a ruptured abscess.
How Is Dragon Worm Disease Spread?
The female worm can contain up to 3 million larvae. These larvae can survive for three weeks outside the body and are often ingested by Cyclops, a type of copepod (small crustacean). Once inside the copepod, the larvae can survive for up to four months.
Human and animal infection occurs through contaminated water or ingestion of food contaminated with infected Cyclops. The larvae then migrate through the digestive system and eventually enter the body's tissues. The incubation period for the larvae to develop into mature worms can take 9 to 14 months.
Symptoms of Dragon Worm Disease
Symptoms of dragon worm disease typically only appear when the mature female worm begins to migrate towards the skin. This can cause painful blisters and itching. When the blisters break open, they release larvae into the water, continuing the cycle. The worm can cause severe pain and inflammation as it migrates, eventually emerging from the skin.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis of dragon worm disease is usually based on clinical symptoms, such as the presence of the mature worm under the skin. X-rays can also be used to detect calcification of the worm. Blood tests and fluid samples from the wound can also be used for diagnosis.
There is no vaccine or specific medication for dragon worm disease. Treatment focuses on alleviating symptoms and preventing complications.
Complications of Dragon Worm Disease
If left untreated, dragon worm disease can cause serious complications, including:
- Cellulitis: Inflammation of the subcutaneous tissue
- Abscesses: Localized collections of pus
- Sepsis: A potentially life-threatening infection of the blood
- Tetanus: A bacterial infection that affects the nervous system
- Infective arthritis: Inflammation of the joints due to infection
Prevention
The WHO's eradication campaign has been highly successful, but the disease still poses a threat in some regions. Prevention measures include:
- Drinking safe water: Avoid drinking from untreated water sources.
- Boiling water: Boil water for at least one minute to kill the larvae.
- Filtering water: Use a water filter to remove copepods.
- Proper food preparation: Cook fish and other seafood thoroughly to kill any larvae.
- Avoiding contact with contaminated water: Avoid swimming or wading in water sources that may be contaminated.
Summary
Dragon worm disease is a rare but potentially serious parasitic infection that can cause debilitating symptoms and complications. While the WHO's eradication campaign has achieved significant progress, the disease still persists in certain regions. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential for preventing complications. By taking preventive measures, individuals can reduce their risk of contracting this disease.